Latest Japanese music releases [February 2025]

inferiorAi Tomioka

Ai Tomioka – Inferior (Music Video)

“Inferior,” by singer-songwriter Ai Tomioka, is a piece released in January 2025.

Framing life as a contest, it sings about feeling ‘inferior’ compared to those around you.

Yet it’s by no means a negative song; it carries the message, “Let’s love ourselves just as we are.” With a snappy sound arrangement that highlights Tomioka’s gentle vocals, it’s a heartwarming pop number.

So heavyYuki Chiba

Yuki Chiba — Heavy [Official Music Video]

A track included on Yuki Chiba’s album “STAR,” released in December 2024.

The song carries a somewhat languid, ennui-tinged vibe, with Chiba’s flexible rap ringing out.

It’s solidly cool yet nicely relaxed, and before you know it, you’re unable to escape its world.

It’s hip-hop that only Yuki Chiba could create.

Orbital PeriodHoshimachi Suisei

Orbital Period / Hoshimachi Suisei (official)

A single marked by a grand, space-evoking melody and crystal-clear vocals.

It’s a track by VTuber Suisei Hoshimachi, digitally released in February 2025 and premiered at her solo concert at the Nippon Budokan, where it captured the hearts of many fans.

The lyrics, depicting the bond between the artist and her fans and the emotion of live performances, resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel a connection with someone important.

I don’t care what happens anymore.Hoshimachi Suisei

I don’t care what happens anymore – Movie edition –

Set to a fast-paced, exhilarating digital dance sound, it delivers a message that hits straight to the heart.

It’s a track by Suisei Hoshimachi, featured as an insert song in the theatrical anime Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-, released in February 2025.

Perfectly matching the world of the Mobile Suit Gundam series, the song brilliantly heightens the story’s excitement.

Pay attention to the lyrics, which evoke the courage to stay true to your beliefs and the strength to face adversity.

How about giving it a listen when you want to lift your spirits?

EurekaGen Hoshino

Gen Hoshino – Eureka [Official Video]

This song conveys Gen Hoshino’s new musical challenge, exploring his true self without losing his footing.

Released in January 2025, it was chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “Madoka, 26, Doing Her Residency!” Blending jazz and soul elements, it pairs a sound rich in nuance with lyrics that reflect on his past.

Its message—“Become the person you want to be”—is sure to be a source of comfort.

Perfect for those who want to cherish the small discoveries and joys of everyday life.

BOW AND ARROWKenshi Yonezu

BOW AND ARROW

An epic song themed around a bow and arrow, it sings of courage and hope.

Showcasing Kenshi Yonezu’s distinctive musicality, the track was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Medalist” and was released in January 2025.

Its exhilarating tempo and powerful vocals blend perfectly with the story set in the world of figure skating.

A devoted fan of the original manga, Yonezu reportedly volunteered to create the theme song as soon as he learned of the anime adaptation.

The lyrics capture the struggles, effort, and resolve of those who take on challenges, making it a song that gives a strong push to anyone striving toward their dreams.

Versailles – Versailles –Ayaka

Ayaka / Versailles – Versailles – Animation Lyric Video

This is a song by singer-songwriter Ayaka that celebrates love and freedom.

Written as the theme for the animated feature film The Rose of Versailles, it will be released digitally in January 2025.

It features Ayaka’s signature powerful vocals and a magnificent melody.

The lyrics, which deeply reflect the characters’ fates and inner struggles, are filled with courage to live through turbulent times and with pure love.

With its dramatic development, the song will resonate even more after you’ve seen the film!