Latest J-Pop Releases [January 2025]

whipB’z

B’z / Whip

This work stands out with its powerful guitar riffs and energetic vocals.

It’s a hard rock number quintessentially B’z, portraying a person who relentlessly pushes themselves.

You can feel from the lyrics the act of driving oneself forward, trying to surpass one’s limits.

Released as a digital single in January 2025, it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Digital Single Ranking.

It was also written as the theme song for the ABEMA original drama “Informer: Beasts Living in the Dark.” It’s a recommended track for those who tend to overwork themselves or want a song to fire them up.

Rolling StoneBREIMEN

BREIMEN “Rolling Stone” Official Music Video (TV Anime “Dr. STONE” Season 4 Ending Theme) #BREIMEN #DrSTONE

A five-member band, BREIMEN, that’s stirring up a fresh breeze in the music world.

Their unique sound, which fuses genres like funk, jazz, and rock, is truly captivating.

I’ve heard this song was written specifically as the ending theme for the TV anime Dr.

STONE SCIENCE FUTURE airing in January 2025.

It seems to center on themes of constant forward progress and taking on uncharted territory, and listening to it is exciting.

It might even inspire you to try something new yourself.

UtopiaICEx

ICEx – Utopia (Official Audio)

ICEx’s “Utopia” is a powerful work that engraves one’s hopes and ideals on the heart.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime “RINGING FATE,” it brilliantly captures both the pure wishes of youth and the harshness of reality.

The single, releasing on February 26, 2025, comes in a regular edition as well as two first-press limited editions with Blu-ray, making it irresistible for fans.

Listening to this song stirs a desire to strive toward your goals.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who has faced setbacks or wants to take a new step forward.

Tonight is a Hearty PartyJuice=Juice

Juice=Juice “Hearty Party Tonight” Promotion Edit

This work, a cover of Mariya Takeuchi’s classic song, is brimming with fun and warmth.

It portrays how people forget their everyday worries and gain energy for tomorrow through parties with friends.

It’s included on a single set for release in February 2025 and has also been chosen as a TV program theme.

When it was first performed at the Nippon Budokan in November 2024, the Christmas party–themed production reportedly brought the house down.

It’s the perfect track for when you want to enjoy time with friends or when you need a boost of energy.

ReawakeRLiSA

LiSA『ReawakeR (feat. Felix of Stray Kids)』MUSiC CLiP

A collaboration between LiSA and Stray Kids’ Felix.

It brilliantly captures the world of the anime “Solo Leveling.” The track fuses powerful rock with electronic elements, gripping listeners and never letting go.

Selected as the opening theme for the anime airing from January 2025, with a CD single release in March.

Recommended not only for anime fans but also for anyone who loves energetic music.

It’s sure to be a song you’ll want to play again and again.

Puppets Can’t Control YouONE OK ROCK

Puppets Can’t Control You

A powerful track from the popular rock band ONE OK ROCK! Centered on themes of society’s injustices and personal freedom, this song fuses emotional vocals with a dynamic sound.

It was surprise-released in January 2025 and is included on the album “DETOX,” out in February.

The track was also chosen as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Gokami-sensei.” Showcasing Taka’s overwhelming vocal prowess and the band’s fiery performance, this piece shines.

The lyrics, which question modern society, deeply resonate with listeners.

A must-listen for anyone who wants to stay true to themselves.

Uni:BirthUniteUp!

UniteUp!「Uni:Birth」Music Video

Titled with a coined word that combines “universe” and “birth,” this song expresses a drive to aim higher and pursue infinite possibilities.

It’s a group track by the 11 members of UniteUp!, arranged to highlight the unique appeal of each voice.

Released in December 2024, it’s used as the opening theme for the anime’s second season.

A music video themed around space and galaxies has also been released, offering visuals that deeply convey the song’s world.

It’s a highly recommended track for anyone who wants to cheer on new beginnings and challenges!