Latest J-Pop Releases [May 2025]

From the New WorldOishikuru Melonpan

Oishikuru Melonpan “From the Old World” Music Video

A song that delicately portrays lost memories and nostalgia for the past is included on oishikuru melonpan’s mini-album “antique.” Its lyrical world—strewn with images like a milky-white sun, a broken music box, and an oil-painted beach—stirs deep emotions in the listener.

Released on April 23, 2025, the work marks the band’s 10th anniversary.

A music video directed by filmmaker Kengo Hanada has also been produced, using mirror reflections to expand the song’s world visually with a dreamlike touch.

A nationwide tour of eight venues is underway to coincide with the album’s release, culminating at Hibiya Open-Air Concert Hall.

Recommended for those who want to savor, on a quiet night, a song that could be called the culmination of their journey—one that faces the past while continuing to push new musical frontiers.

Two Driftersskirt

Skirt – Two Drifters [Official Music Video]

A melody whose delicate guitar strokes and gentle vocals seep into the heart.

This gem from Wataru Sawabe’s solo project vividly and poetically portrays everyday solitude and hope.

Centered on acoustic guitar and percussion, its warm sound tenderly stirs the listener’s sensibilities.

Released on March 26, 2025 as a pre-release single from the album “Special,” the track serves as a core piece of his fifth major-label album, which came out on May 14 of the same year.

His music has a strong track record of tie-ins, including the theme song for the film “Takasaki Graffiti.” and the opening theme for the anime “ODD TAXI.” It’s a recommended listen when you want to be close to the small tremors of the heart, or when you’re seeking a quiet moment away from the clamor of the city.

Rollin' Rollin'ZUKA-RADERU

Zutto Zukkaraderu “Rollin Rollin” (Official Music Video)

The three-piece rock band Zutto Kadareru from Sapporo, Hokkaido has sparked buzz with a new song they wrote in April 2025 as the opening theme for the nationwide tour “Junmai Daiginjo” by the comedy duo Ginshari.

Brimming with exhilarating drive, the track pairs its sound with lyrics that capture the emptiness of everyday life and feelings toward the repetitive days—words crafted by Takanobu Yoshida that also hint at hope beyond the end.

This special collaboration, realized in a milestone year marking the band’s 10th anniversary and the duo’s 20th, had its first on-air premiere on a TOKYO FM program on April 22, followed by the music video’s release on the official YouTube channel the next day.

It’s a song we especially recommend to those feeling worn down by daily life or seeking a force that compels them forward.

MisfitsThe Dresscodes

dresscodes “Misfits” MUSIC VIDEO

The new song by The Dresscodes, led by Ryohei Shima as he embarks on the second chapter of his solo project, is a work themed around loneliness and alienation, resonating with the world of his autobiography “Bokudake wa Blue” (I’m the Only One Who’s Blue).

Set to a driving rhythm, it powerfully gives voice to the feelings of an “outsider,” unfolding an emotional sonic landscape.

Released digitally in April 2025 as a lead track from the album “† (Cross),” slated for May 2025, and premiered live at LIQUIDROOM in Tokyo, the song builds on the foundations of rock ’n’ roll while incorporating contemporary arrangements.

It’s a track that will surely speak to listeners who want to immerse themselves in Shima’s inner world, as well as to anyone who feels they don’t quite fit into society.

Being lazy is nice, huh.Nekraitoki

Necry Talkie Lyric Video “It’s Okay to Be Lazy” / NECRY TALKIE – Taida de Iina

It’s a soothing track with a relaxed rhythm that gently wraps away the fatigue of everyday life.

Within its friendly, poppy melody is a message that says, “Let’s take it easy today,” and the lyrics, which boost your self-esteem, are especially appealing.

Written and composed by the vocalist-guitarist of NecryTalkie, this gem of a song shines with the band’s unique character.

It’s included on their second EP, “Mob-nari no Kung Fu,” released in March 2025, and can be enjoyed alongside a variety of other tracks, such as “Jinsei Nannimo Wakannee!”—the theme song for SCRAP’s Real Escape Game.

It’s the perfect song for those overwhelmed by busy days or looking to treat themselves with more care.

A work that lets you fully savor the charm of NecryTalkie.

Fall in love with loveAi Higuchi

Ai Higuchi / Fall in Love with Love [Official Music Video] | Ai Higuchi ‘Fall in Love with Love’

Higuchi Ai’s new song, which has captivated many listeners with her refined vocals and exceptional musical sensibility, was written as the theme for the Hulu original drama “Even If We’re Adults.” Centered on the theme of being in love with love itself, the piece beautifully fuses delicate piano tones with her clear, translucent voice to express a complex range of emotions—sweetness and heartache, as well as loneliness and inner conflict.

Released on April 23, 2025, the track is poised to become a significant work in her musical career.

Following her worldwide success with the ending theme for the 2022 TV anime Attack on Titan, this song is drawing attention as her next signature piece.

It’s a perfect listen for those swayed by the complexities of love or who cherish the small, hidden moments of wonder in everyday life.

Imperial Regent DeclarationYoung Skinny

Young Skinny – Declaration of a Husband’s Rule [Official Music Video]

Young Skinny’s new song vividly captures the emotions of today’s youth, with Kayayu’s clear, high-toned vocals and lyrics about clumsy love lingering in the heart.

Set to a light, catchy melody, the track expresses personal flaws and inner conflict with a cynical edge, distilling the appeal of a band that enjoys overwhelming support from Gen Z.

Released digitally on April 23, 2025, the song premiered on the band’s flagship regular program, THE KINGS PLACE, and generated major buzz.

Their music portrays a life full of lies and contradictions with unvarnished honesty, making it a great recommendation for those who want to empathize with the subtleties of real romance or tap into the sensibilities of young people living in the modern era.