Latest J-Pop Releases [January 2025]

MabelNatori

Mabel

A philosophical song themed around love, growth, and loss.

It’s a January 2025 work by Natori, covering a Vocaloid track by Keina Suda.

Released as one of the songs on the concept album Fall Apart, produced by Suda.

The emotional melody is enhanced by Natori’s characteristically delicate production, making it a track that resonates deeply.

The lyrics delve into the uncertainty of human relationships and the changes that come with growth, offering comfort to listeners.

It’s perfect for when you want to reminisce about your youth or find yourself standing at a crossroads in life.

My dressbedhead

Neguse. “My Dress” Official Music Video (TV Anime “Medalist” Ending Theme Song)

This song, a tie-in with the TV anime Medalist, is an anthem for people chasing their dreams.

Digital distribution begins in January 2025, with a CD release in March.

Set to a sound that combines power and lightness, it sings of stories unfolding in the world of figure skating.

The exhilarating melody and rhythmically rhymed lyrics leave a strong impression.

It’s recommended not only for those striving toward their goals, but also for anyone who wants to cheer someone on.

UshirojikanYuuri

[MV] Ushirojikan / Yuuri [Original]

This work sharply captures the feelings that sway between time and identity.

It’s a track by Yuuri, released as a digital single in January 2025.

The song was composed by Sasuke Haraguchi, and the music video was directed by Akkan B-Tarō.

Its crisp sound, where pop sensibilities and artistry blend exquisitely, is striking.

The lyrics—“I dread tomorrow coming”—brilliantly distill the emotions of young people living in the present.

I think it will especially resonate with teenagers.

TwilightRibu

"Twilight" [Ribu × Eve]

It’s a perfect song for an anime world that描くの境界—fits the boundary between life and death.

Released in January 2025, it was used as the ending theme for the anime “TASOKARE HOTEL.” The lyrics and composition were handled by Eve, and Rib’s cool vocals accentuate the song’s transience.

The protagonist’s ongoing journey of self-discovery is reflected in the lyrics, resonating deeply with listeners.

It also drew attention as an advance single from the album “Ratimeria.”

A happy promise.Lilia.

riria. / A Happy Promise [Music Video]

A warm, gentle song that tenderly embraces both the joys and anxieties of life.

It’s the first track on the album “Kiseki,” released in January 2025, and it was also chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “My Happy Marriage,” which aired around the same time.

Lilia’s heartfelt vocals and the mellow, soothing melody leave a strong impression.

The lyrics, brimming with the happiness of having a partner, tighten your chest with emotion.

Please listen while thinking of someone special to you.

L’oNMasayoshi Oishi

Masayoshi Oishi – L’oN [Official Video]

The deeply introspective lyrics, which question the meaning of life, leave a strong impression.

The song released by Masayoshi Oishi in January 2025 is the opening theme for the TV anime Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun 2.

Themes like “fate” and “time” are skillfully interwoven, faithfully reflecting the anime’s story.

The loud rock sound further reinforces the lyrical worldview.

Be sure to add this dynamic anime song to your playlist.

AfterwordTonbo Corp.

Tonbo Corp – Afterword (Music Video)

A ballad that sings of the pain of heartbreak and the courage to look ahead.

Tonbo Corp’s “Afterword” was released in January 2025.

Its poignant lyrics addressed to a former lover and the emotional resonance of the guitar touch the heart.

Vocalist Rin Yukimura’s true-to-life voice faithfully conveys the protagonist’s feelings.

It’s a warm song recommended not only for those who have experienced heartbreak, but also for anyone who wants to take even a small step forward in life.