<![CDATA[A-to-J Connections

<![CDATA[A-to-J Connections - Music]]>Tue, 25 Mar 2025 20:40:14 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Japanese Boys Group WOLF HOWL HARMONY Release Music Video for "BAKUON"]]>Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:28:05 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/japanese-boys-group-wolf-howl-harmony-release-music-video-for-bakuon

Meet four-piece Japanese boys group WOLF HOWL HARMONY. A year and a half since their debut, this EXILE TRIBE group continue to be hot news in the music scene, hosting a regular radio show on J-WAVE and a regular column in the beauty publication VOCE. The group recently released their first full-length album, titled "WOLF", along with a music video for "BAKUON", the lead song from the album. Links to both can be found below.

The music video is a collaboration with LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM dance group, who are active in Japan’s dance league D.LEAGUE. WOLF HOWL HARMONY aim to be future leaders of their generation, and LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM are their greatest advocates, helping to spread their message. The abandoned spaces featured in the video act as their base of operations, and despite the location’s dystopian vibe, the video expresses how the two groups’ alliance continues to grow ever stronger.

This is WOLF HOWL HARMONY's most difficult dance performance to date, creating incredible visual impact through its choreography and expressive power. The choreography was devised by LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM Director Naoya Nagai. The video was directed by YERD, a Japanese creative who has become renowned as a filmmaker and music video director whose works boast stunning visual beauty and unique storytelling. With direction skills that bring out each artist’s unique personality to the fullest and visual sense that pays close attention to detail, YERD has worked on many hit productions.

The video for "BAKUON" was filmed in a man-made yet familiar abandoned structure, in a remote location devoid of visitors. Based on the concept that cultural evolution and the emergence of new movements also begin in unknown places, the video was shot using a variety of angles, large-scale aerial photography using drones, distinctive setups within the space and dizzying editing techniques, with the aim of creating a video that would serve as a statement of WHH’s resolve to shape the times to come.

Comment from WOLF HOWL HARMONY
“Collaborating on this video with LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM allowed for a chain reaction of creativity, making this the proudest work in our history as WOLF HOWL HARMONY so far! We hope this video will kickstart a new movement, so be sure to check it out!”

Comment from producer Chaki Zulu
“We tried and tested many approaches to create a song that would aid WOLF HOWL HARMONY’s mission to take over the world. I think it’s an addictive song that adds a spark to the group’s singing and dancing performance.”

Comment from LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM Director Naoya Nagai
“We created choreography that breaks free from genres, based on the sense of speed that defines today’s world and an epic foot-stomp that screams power. This high-tempo choreography features hand signs that are typical of WHH and iconic elements from their songs, and once you start dancing, you’ll be obsessed. The vibe from this collaboration got me thinking deeply about what expression really means, and the true essence of dance. I hope this fresh wave that WHH bring will wash over you all, and that you will dance together and feel the excitement.”

Comment from LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM member calin
“This song was a whole new challenge for both WOLF HOWL HARMONY and LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM. Rather than matching particular shapes or silhouettes, it’s like their bodies were being controlled by or influenced by something greater – and this was the image I tried to convey when working on the choreography. It must have been pretty hard for them. The energy of the song brings out a whole new side to each member’s expression and dance performance. It feels new, but true to the group’s original charm. I hope you enjoy it.”

Director’s notes from YERD
“The setting for this video was an abandoned space that exists within everyday life, but a place where other people do not venture. This is the secret base of WOLF HOWL HARMONY, and is testament to how the evolution of culture and the emergence of new movements begin in unknown places.

“In this era where the cutting edge changes dramatically every day, who will be the next artist to lead their generation? Thinking of this question, and with the hope that WOLF HOWL HARMONY will continue to grow into artists that lead the zeitgeist, I made a video that expresses the power of demonstrating your existence and your place with likeminded cohorts in this wide world through a creative lens.

“The symbolic, powerful dance at the center of this video is also its main theme. LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM have a unique presence within D.LEAGUE and are comrades of the pioneering force that is WOLF HOWL HARMONY, making them welcome collaborators. The members of LIFULL ALT-RHYTHM have helped spread the ideas of WOLF HOWL HARMONY, contributing to the group’s unique approach with their distinctive choreography full of awesome contemporary rhythm.

"The physical expression of dance that could only be communicated by members of the same tribe represents the creation of a new common language and culture, showing us how WOLF HOWL HARMONY – who were previously solitary lone wolves – evolve when they work with their friends.”

WOLF HOWL HARMONY from EXILE TRIBE - "WOLF"
https://wolfhowlharmony.lnk.to/WOLF_dlstr

"BAKUON" Download & Streaming Campaign Details:
https://wolfhowlharmony.jp/news/detail.php?id=1123379

WOLF HOWL HARMONY Profile:
WOLF HOWL HARMONY are a four-member vocal and rap boys group featuring GHEE and HIROTO, who were both finalists of iCON Z ~Dreams For Children~, the largest audition in LDH history with 48,000 participants; and RYOJI and SUZUKI, who joined iCON from its second chapter and are also part of the choral group DEEP SQUAD. WHH’s debut song ‘Sweet Rain’ was released on August 23, reaching No.3 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart and No.1 on Spotify’s ‘Viral 50 Japan’ playlist.

As the buzz around the group grew, WHH won the Rising Star Award Presented by YOKOHAMA special prize at the MTV VMAJ 2023 awards, and their debut song ‘Sweet Rain’ ranked 9th on Spotify’s Most Shared Tracks of 2023 Japan chart, a ranking of the songs most shared on social media that year. Their second single ‘Frozen Butterfly’ also made waves, charting at No.9 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and No.8 on the Spotify Viral 50 Japan ranking for March 2, gracing Spotify’s ‘Tokyo Super Hits!’ playlist for three consecutive weeks.

Members:
RYOJI (28)
SUZUKI (29)
GHEE (27)
HIROTO (23)

Links:
Website: https://wolfhowlharmony.jp/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wolfhowlharmony
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WOLFHOWLHARMONY
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolf_howl_harmony/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wolf_howl_harmony

]]><![CDATA[AiNA THE END Releases New Single: "Peerless Flowers"]]>Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/aina-the-end-releases-new-single-peerless-flowers

Japanese pop artist AiNA THE END recently released a new song titled "Peerless Flowers", which features lyrics and music written by herself. Details on this release, as well as links to check out its MV, can be found below.

Following the 2024 anime movie Mononoke the Movie: Phantom in the Rain, "Peerless Flowers" is the theme song for the new film Mononoke the Movie: Chapter 2 – Hinezumi, which was released on March 14. Written specially for the film, the song’s gentle, flowing piano melody and moving strings harmonize perfectly with a band performance to create a grand ballad that echoes the animated movie’s unique atmosphere.

The music video is a deep expression of the happiness of knowing love and the pain of losing it, which is a theme of the song itself. The video juxtaposes scenes of a full cast representing the many couples who pursue love and embrace human connections with scenes of AiNA THE END singing alone, looking somewhat inhuman with short blonde hair and a colorless body, distorted beyond her usual image. The MV for "Peerless Flowers" can be found below.

"Peerless Flowers" Download & Streaming Links:
https://aina.lnk.to/hanamuso

AiNA THE END Profile
AiNA THE END started her career in 2015 as a member of the “instrument-free punk band” BiSH, and made her major-label debut the following year. In 2021, she released her first self-written solo album, "THE END", marking the start of her solo career. When BiSH sadly disbanded in June 2023, she continued as a solo artist.

She has also provided theme songs for a number of anime series and films, including the ending theme "Red:birthmark" for Season 2 of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, ending theme "The Spell" for The Apothecary Diaries, and theme song "Love Sick" for Mononoke the Movie: Phantom in the Rain.

In addition to her activities as a recording artist, in 2022 she played the role of Janis Joplin in the first ever Japanese production of Broadway musical A Night with Janis Joplin; while in October 2023, she played her first leading big-screen role in the film Kyrie, directed by Shunji Iwai, for which she won numerous prestigious awards.

Tickets to her solo tour Grow The Sunset in March 2024 and her first ever headline show at the Nippon Budokan titled ENDROLL in September 2024 sold out completely.

She released her third solo album "RUBY POP" on November 27, 2024 – her first new album in three years. This was followed in December by her first ever overseas solo concert, held in Taiwan. Her ongoing Harinezumi Smile tour began in January 2025, visiting eight cities across Japan.

AiNA THE END Links:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aina_THEEND
X: https://twitter.com/aina_BiSH
Staff X: https://twitter.com/aina_THEEND
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ainatheend_official/
Website: https://ainatheend.jp/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ainatheendofficial

]]><![CDATA[VK Blanka Announces "North America & Japan Tour 2025"]]>Fri, 14 Mar 2025 07:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/vk-blanka-announces-north-america-japan-tour-2025

VK Blanka made his North American tour debut last year, and it looks like it's time for him to do so once again! Details on the tour, as well as links to pick up tickets, can be found below!

Since expanding his activities overseas in 2023, VK Blanka has performed electrifying live shows in new territories, including North America, Europe, Saudi Arabia, and Latin America. At Brazil’s largest anime convention, Anime Friends São Paulo 2024, he captivated a staggering audience of 10,000, their voices rising in fervent chants of his name, as he closed out the event as the final act of the night.

This May, VK Blanka will tour Canada, the USA, and Mexico. Building on this momentum, he will also embark on his largest-ever tour across seven cities in Japan in June. This combined journey forms the “North America & Japan Tour 2025".

Having gained more experience since his last North American Tour, he will bring new songs to these returning locations. Fans are going to want to check out his electrifying performance, and grab tickets as soon as they're available. General ticket sales for the North American shows are scheduled to start on Monday, March 17, at 9:00 AM PDT.

VK Blanka North America & Japan Tour 2025 Info:
May 11 Montreal
May 12 Toronto
May 15 New York
May 17 Mexico City
May 20 Vancouver
May 27 Los Angeles

Jun 14 Tokyo
Jun 24 Aichi
Jun 27 Hokkaido
Jul 06 Fukuoka
Jul 20 Miyagi
Aug 24 Ishikawa
Aug 30 Osaka

VK Blanka North America & Japan Tour 2025 Special Website:
https://vkblanka.lnk.to/NorthAmericaJapanTour2025

About VK Blanka:
VK Blanka began to gain attention with his 2018 single "Masshiro", which was featured in a TV drama series, and went on to reach No.2 on the Japanese iTunes album chart. "Black Catcher", his opening song for the Black Clover anime series, became a phenomenal long-running hit, entering Spotify’s Top 10 chart of songs by Japanese artists played by overseas users for three consecutive years since 2020 and accruing over 1.5 million monthly listeners. With over 500 million plays across streaming platforms, VK Blankaʼs music has truly captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

VK Blanka has performed at events in Saudi Arabia, Italy and France, attracting over 10,000 fans to his overseas shows. Then, starting with a show in Vancouver on January 31, 2024, VK Blanka undertook his first solo tour of North America, with performances in a total of nine cities. In July, this was followed by the VK Blanka Latin America Tour 2024 in Chile and Mexico.

His new album "Knightclub" was released on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

Official Links
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsvk/
X: https://twitter.com/VickeBlanka
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VickeblankaTV
TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@vicke_blanka
WEB: https://vickeblanka.com/

]]><![CDATA[NACHERRY to Release Fourth Single: “Honey Lemon”]]>Mon, 10 Mar 2025 07:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/nacherry-to-release-fourth-single-honey-lemon

NACHERRY, a unit consisting of voice actresses Natsumi Murakami and Chiemi Tanaka, recently revealed that they will release their fourth single, titled “Honey Lemon,” on May 28, 2025. Details on this release, as well as a pre-save link, can be found below.

Besides being their latest single, the song "Honey Lemon" has also been chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime The Shiunji Family’s Children, which will begin airing in April. Additionally, new artist photos and jacket designs have been revealed, and can be found in this article.

“Honey Lemon” was written by Ereca Suzuki, composed by Ereca Suzuki and oni, and arranged by oni. It features a refreshing, fast-paced sound that captures the story and characters’ emotions in the anime, with NACHERRY’s two members delivering the sweet and bittersweet lyrics about the moment one realizes they are in love with heartfelt emotion. This single will be released in two versions: A NACHERRY edition and The Shiunji Family’s Children Edition. Both versions will include the title track “Honey Lemon,” along with two additional tracks. Additionally, the NACHERRY edition will come with a Blu-ray featuring behind-the-scenes footage from the “Honey Lemon” music video shoot. The Shiunji Family’s Children edition will feature a jacket with exclusive artwork.

The full version of “Honey Lemon” will be available for early streaming on various music distribution services starting April 9, ahead of the CD release. While staying true to their rock and pop roots, NACHERRY continually pushes themselves with new styles, making them an act you won’t want to miss.

“Honey Lemon” Pre-Save/Pre-Add Link:
https://lnk.to/LZC-3077

"Honey Lemon" (NACHERRY Edition)
Price: ¥2,750 (incl. 10% tax)
Product No.: LACM-24694
Includes: 1 CD, 1 Blu-ray

Contents:
[CD]
“Honey Lemon”
Lyrics: Ereca Suzuki
Composition: Ereca Suzuki, oni
Arrangement: oni
And two coupling songs

[Blu-ray] *NACHERRY edition only
01. Honey Lemon Music Video
02. Behind-the-scenes footage of music video shoot

"Honey Lemon" (The Shiunji Family’s Children Edition)
Price: ¥1,650 (incl. 10% tax)
Product No.: LACM-24695
Includes: 1 CD
Jacket featuring exclusive The Shiunji Family’s Children illustration

Contents:
[CD]
“Honey Lemon”
Lyrics: Ereca Suzuki
Composition: Ereca Suzuki, oni
Arrangement: oni
And two coupling songs

NACHERRY Profile:
A unit formed by voice actresses Natsumi Murakami and Chiemi Tanaka, who made their artist debut under Lantis. The name “NACHERRY” is a combination of their first names (Natsumi and Chiemi) and symbolizes the idea of “two-in-one,” like a double cherry. They chose this name to reflect their desire to have twice as much fun while complementing each other’s strengths.

Built around the concept of “constant excitement with girls who are open about what they love and never lose their sense of fun,” NACHERRY delivers upbeat, American-style rock songs with a vibrant, poppy energy, bringing excitement to audiences.

Website: https://nacherry.jp
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCidjZB0LX5l8aKzjLN0-1ZQ
X: https://twitter.com/NACHERRY_STAFF
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nacherry_official/
Natsumi Murakami X: https://twitter.com/natyaaaaaaan07
Chiemi Tanaka X: https://twitter.com/t_chiemi1006

Natsumi Murakami
Agency: Yurin Pro
Birthday: September 7
Place of Birth: Tokyo
Hobbies: Fishing, video games
Special skills: Drums, drawing
Roles:
Ai Miyashita in Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club
Ako Saotome in Aikatsu Stars!
Chiyo in The Little Lies We All Tell

Chiemi Tanaka
Agency: Stay Luck
Birthday: October 6
Place of Birth: Shizuoka Prefecture
Hobbies: Sauna
Special skills: Singing
Roles:
Rina Tennoji in Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club
Ririko Oribe in Sakura Quest
Rikka in The Little Lies We All Tell

]]><![CDATA[Makoto Furukawa to New Release Mini-Album: "Catch Me If You Can"]]>Fri, 28 Feb 2025 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/makoto-furukawa-to-new-release-mini-album-catch-me-if-you-can

Voice actor and singer Makoto Furukawa recently announced that he will release his first mini-album in nearly four years, titled "Catch Me If You Can". Details on this release, and links for pre-orders, can be found below.

Also of note, one of the mini-album's tracks, “Hightail it”, has been selected as the ending theme for the TV anime Please Put Them On, Takamine-san, which premieres on April 2. The album will feature five songs, and be available in three editions: a limited edition with photos of Furukawa in a casual outfit, a first-run limited edition that includes a Blu-ray with a music video and behind-the-scenes footage, and a standard CD-only edition. The music video includes a guest appearance by comedian Tonikaku Akarui Yasumura, adding an extra layer of fun to the release.

Furukawa will also take the stage in Tokyo on April 13 as part of his Furukawa Makoto 2nd Live Tour “kaleido is bloom.” More information will come as the release date gets closer, so be sure to keep an eye out for more!

Makoto Furukawa - "Catch Me If You Can" Links:
https://lnk.to/LACA-25157

Makoto Furukawa Profile
Born September 29, 1989 in Kumamoto Prefecture
Agency: Toy’s Factory

Makoto Furukawa has voiced numerous anime characters, including Shaddiq Zenelli in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, Karasu Tabito in Blue Lock, Shishio Makoto in Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story – Kyoto Arc, and Taiju Oki in Dr. Stone.

Furukawa made his singing debut under the Lantis label with his first single, “miserable masquerade,” released on July 4, 2018.

On November 12, 2023, he held his first solo concert with a live audience, Furukawa Makoto 1st Re-Live “Call” in the BOX, at Zepp Shinjuku (Tokyo). His next Tokyo performance, part of the Furukawa Makoto 2nd Live Tour “kaleido is bloom,” is scheduled for April 13, 2025, at TACHIKAWA STAGE GARDEN.

Makoto Furukawa Lantis Page: https://www.lantis.jp/artist/furukawamakoto/
Makoto Furukawa Lantis Staff X: https://x.com/Lantis_FM

]]><![CDATA[Maaya Sakamoto Announces 36th Single: “Drops”]]>Wed, 26 Feb 2025 11:06:38 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/maaya-sakamoto-announces-36th-single-drops

It was recently announced that Maaya Sakamoto’s latest song, titled “Drops”, will serve as the opening theme for the upcoming TV anime Aru Majo ga Shinu Made. Details on this release can be found below.

Aru Majo ga Shinu Made begins airing on April 1, and it has also been confirmed that the song will be released as her 36th single. The lyrics for “Drops” were written by Yuho Iwasato, who has collaborated with Maaya Sakamoto on many songs. The music was composed by Naoto Kiyota, an up-and-coming composer making his debut collaboration with Sakamoto, and the arrangement was handled by Shin Kono, who has been arranging Sakamoto’s music for many years. This combination of familiarity and fresh talent makes for an exciting team.

The coupling song, “Twilight”, features lyrics co-written by Maaya Sakamoto and Yuho Iwasato for the first time in 28 years, with composition and arrangement by Tomoya Kawasaki. This electro-style number marks a bold new direction for Sakamoto.

The Limited First Edition comes with the Maaya Sakamoto 30th Anniversary Acrylic Stand, “Omote mo Ura mo Sakamoto Maaya!” (Maaya Sakamoto on the front and back!). This exclusive anniversary item features a newly photographed image of Sakamoto with the FlyingDog logo on the base. The acrylic stand is double-sided, with her back view printed on the reverse. The cover artwork for the release has also been released, and can be found in this report.

Product Information
Maaya Sakamoto - "Drops"
Release Date: May 21, 2025
Limited First Edition / VTZL-255 / ¥3,300 (tax incl.)
Standard Edition / (CD) VTCL-35386 / ¥1,320 (tax incl.)

The Limited First Edition comes with the Maaya Sakamoto 30th Anniversary Acrylic Stand, “Omote mo Ura mo Sakamoto Maaya!”

Tracklist
1. Drops (OP Theme of Aru Majo ga Shinu Made)
Lyrics: Maaya SakamotoYuho Iwasato
Composition: Naoto Kiyota
Arrangement: Shin Kono
2. Twilight
Lyrics: Maaya Sakamoto & Yuho Iwasato
Composition / Arrangement: Tomoya Kawasaki
3. Drops (TV size)
And two instrumental tracks

Maaya Sakamoto Profile
Born in Tokyo, she began her career as a child actress at the age of eight. She made her CD debut in 1996 with the single “Yakusoku wa Iranai.” Following her 2011 album You Can’t Catch Me, which topped the Oricon chart, she began actively collaborating with a wide range of other artists and musicians. Since her 2013 album Singer-Songwriter, she has also been composing music for other artists.

In 2019, she released her 30th single “Uchuu no Kioku” (produced by Ringo Sheena) and her 10th original album Kyou Dake no Ongaku. In 2020, she released her 25th anniversary album Single Collection+ Achikochi and the digital single “Yakudo,” which topped the Oricon chart.

In July 2021, her radio program “Vitamin M,” which she had been hosting for 20 years, reached its 1,000th broadcast and entered its 21st year. In May 2022, she released the double tie-up single “Sumire / Kotoba ni Dekinai,” with music written and arranged by Shigeru Kishida.

To date, she has released 35 singles and 11 full albums. As a lyricist, in addition to writing her own original songs, she has also written many songs for other artists, including Kinki Kids’ “Hikari no Kehai,” Mamoru Miyano’s “Toumei,” and Walküre’s “Kaze wa Yokoku Naku Fuku,” and has published her own lyrics book Shishu (Kadokawa).

She won the 38th Kazuo Kikuta Theater Award for her performance as Jerusha in the musical Daddy-Long-Legs. Her latest essay collection Manpukuron - Asu ni Kaburitsuke (Kadokawa) has also garnered attention.

In addition to her singing career, she is active as a voice actress, actress, lyricist, essayist, and radio personality. Her fresh and vibrant voice is loved by fans not only in Japan but also around the world. In 2025, she will celebrate her 30th anniversary as a performer and is set to contribute the opening theme song for the TV anime Aru Majo ga Shinu Made.

Homepage: http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/maaya/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/maayasakamotoCh/

]]><![CDATA[Masami Okui to Release First Single Under Lantis In 8 Years: "Baby Baby Baby"]]>Tue, 25 Feb 2025 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/masami-okui-to-release-first-single-under-lantis-in-8-years-baby-baby-baby

Masami Okui recently announced that she will release her first single under the Lantis label in nearly eight years, titled “Baby Baby Baby”. Details on this release can be found below.

The lead track in the single, her first collaboration with Bonjour Suzuki, has also been chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Please Put Them On, Takamine-san, which premieres in April. The track features a perfect balance between Okui’s powerful vocals and Bonjour Suzuki’s coquettish singing style. The coupling track, an original song by R・O・N, showcases Okui’s cool side and offers a striking contrast to the lead track.

The single will be available in two editions: a limited first-edition 8 cm single featuring exclusive Please Put Them On, Takamine-san artwork and a new photo of Masami Okui, evoking the charm of classic releases, and a standard 12 cm edition. This release is designed to be enjoyed not just for its music but also as a collectible physical product. More details regarding this single will come closer to its release.

Product Information
Masami Okui - "Baby Baby Baby" (Limited Edition / Standard Edition)
Release Date: April 23, 2025
Contents: 2 Tracks + Off Vocal Versions
LACM-34686 / LACM-24686
Limited Edition: ¥2,200 (incl. tax)
Standard Edition: ¥1,650 (incl. tax)

Masami Okui Profile
Singer / Lyricist / Composer / Producer

After working as a backing vocalist for numerous artists, including Yumi Matsutoya, Masami Okui made her debut in August 1993 with “Dare Yori mo Zutto...” under King Records. She has performed numerous theme songs for hit anime such as Slayers and Revolutionary Girl Utena and has contributed many songs to anime productions. In 2003, she joined JAM Project, where she has also been involved in songwriting.

Masami Okui Official Website: http://makusonia.com/
Lantis Masami Okui Webpage: https://www.lantis.jp/artist/okuimasami/

]]><![CDATA[Japanese Musician TOMONARI SORA Releases Stylish New Song: "Bergamot"]]>Thu, 20 Feb 2025 05:39:52 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/japanese-musician-tomonari-sora-releases-stylish-new-song-bergamot

Japanese musician TOMONARI SORA, known in Japan as the “Reiwa Era Pop Killer”, recently released a new song, titled "Bergamot". Details on this release, and links to check it out for yourself, can be found below!

As the latest song from SORA, "Bergamot" follows his previous viral hits including "Demons Banquet" and "Niramekko". This stylish pop tune boasts an unforgettable earworm melody, clever wordplay, a stylish sound and an arrangement filled with unexpected aural twists that will keep you listening to the very end.

The song’s lyrics, composition, arrangement, audio mix and jacket artwork were all created by SORA himself. A lyric video for "Bergamot" was also released today. It was produced by video creator Tsumugi, who made the video for SORA’s previous track "ACTOR".

Comment from TOMONARI SORA
“A glamorous yet lonely eastern city. Amid the neon lights and commotion, days spent alternating between work and leisure. Passing someone at an intersection, a scent on the wind evokes a certain memory. Tonight is Saturday. Your favorite bergamot eau de toilette spray lingers on your wrist.”

"Bergamot" Download & Streaming Links:
https://tomonarisora.lnk.to/Bergamot

TOMONARI SORA Profile
Known in Japan as the “Reiwa Era pop killer” and born in 2002, TOMONARI SORA is a new-generation singer-songwriter. Since he first suddenly crashed onto the J-pop scene like a comet, he has released one viral hit song after another.

SORA’s catchy melodies, his humorous wordplay filled with mystery and acerbic wit, and his knack for embracing traditional Japanese motifs have set the music world alight, and his January 2024 song "Demons Banquet" dominated the music charts for the first half of that year. The follow-up "Niramekko" released in May 2024 also became a viral hit.

As a child, SORA longed to create a country of his own; realizing that he could use music to build his own world, a place of respite from the difficulties of life, he began teaching himself to compose music while in fourth grade of elementary school.

SORA is a multitalented artist who not only writes lyrics, composes music and arranges songs, but also works on his own illustrations and music videos as well.

Website: https://avex.jp/tomonarisora/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tomonarisora
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomonariSora
X: https://twitter.com/TomonariSora
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomonarisora/

]]><![CDATA[Japanese Boy Band Snow Man Break Records with Release of Greatest Hits Album: "THE BEST 2020 - 2025"]]>Mon, 10 Feb 2025 22:48:45 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/japanese-boy-band-snow-man-break-records-with-release-of-greatest-hits-album-the-best-2020-2025

Snow Man, a nine-member boy band whose members include leader Hikaru Iwamoto, Tatsuya Fukazawa, Raul, Shota Watanabe, Koji Mukai, Ryohei Abe, Ren Meguro, Ryota Miyadate and Daisuke Sakuma, recently released their first ever greatest hits album: "THE BEST 2020 - 2025". This album marked the fifth anniversary of their debut, and it proved to be quite the memorable release. Details on the album, and links to check out some of their MVs, can be found below!

Besides being their first greatest hits album, "THE BEST 2020 - 2025" also is notable for the records it set. It sold over 1.1 million copies on its first day on sale, topping the Oricon Daily Album Ranking chart for January 21, 2025. Its first-week sales hit 1,395,000 copies, setting a new record for the highest first-week sales of Japan’s Reiwa Era (which began in 2019), according to the Oricon Weekly Album Ranking dated February 3, 2025, and based on the sales period of January 20 thru January 26, 2025. All five of Snow Man’s albums to date have sold over a million copies each, making it the first time in the history of the Oricon rankings that an artist has had their first five consecutive albums sell over a million copies, as well as setting the record for beating a million on the first day on sale.

"THE BEST 2020 - 2025" contains 61 songs, including brand new tracks, and 30 music videos including their videos to date and two new ones. It also includes a ton of freshly shot footage, such as all 35 dance practice and performance videos the group have released on YouTube and nine music videos for solo songs by each member of the group, making it a packed and comprehensive set that will allow fans to experience Snow Man as they are today.

Album highlights Include:

"D.D."
Snow Man’s debut song "D.D." has become their calling card, characterized by its edgy digital sound. Don’t miss the hard, stylish dance moves and acrobatics in the video.

MV: https://youtu.be/rSD7jb4Xjq8

"EMPIRE"
"EMPIRE" is a song from Snow Man to the world. This cool track boldly samples Mozart’s renowned "Symphony No. 25 in G minor", making it instantly recognizable to just about anyone. Combining the timeless grandeur of classical music with a modern dance beat makes this a unique and unmissable tune. The music video was shot entirely in Barcelona, which lends the video an unmistakable atmosphere, featuring a powerful performance from a total of 54 dancers.

MV: https://youtu.be/C9Ykam2hUs0

"SBY"
"SBY" was the theme song for the motion picture Trillion Game, which starred Snow Man member Ren Meguro; this quiet mid-tempo ballad is like a morning glow that evokes new beginnings. The lyrics express gratitude and a determination to continue moving forward together, with the message: “I didn’t come this far by myself alone; it’s because you were there”.

MV: https://youtu.be/pSp2AAGB27M

"Stories" & "Granduer"
No Snow Man collection would be complete without their two opening songs for the anime series Black Clover. "Stories" is a fast-paced rock-tinged track that sings of a conviction to forge your own path even when strong winds blow against you. And "Grandeur" is an up-tempo dance tune with a slightly more mature, sexy vibe.

"Stories" MV: https://youtu.be/M6m5JEfQ-U0
"Grandeur" MV: https://youtu.be/7RyewjSWnFo

"One"
"One" was the ending theme song for the anime series Blue Lock VS. U-20 JAPAN, and was Snow Man’s first song to be released on streaming platforms. The song begins quietly, creating the image of dawn spreading across a magnificent landscape, while its lyrics echo the themes of the anime show by singing of a strong will to pursue your dreams.

Download & Streaming Links: https://mentrecording.lnk.to/one

With each song, you can see a different side of Snow Man. The songs above are just a handful of the 61 tracks contained on "THE BEST 2020 - 2025". Take a careful listen to them all, and find your own favorite.

"THE BEST 2020 - 2025" Purchase Link: https://SnowMan.lnk.to/THEBEST_overseas

Snow Man Profile
Snow Man are a nine-piece Japanese boyband featuring leader Hikaru Iwamoto, Tatsuya Fukazawa, Raul, Shota Watanabe, Koji Mukai, Ryohei Abe, Ren Meguro, Ryota Miyadate and Daisuke Sakuma. They made their debut on January 22, 2020 with the release of "D.D." / "Imitation Rain". They have won the Artist of the Year trophy at the Japan Gold Disc Award for three years running. In spring 2025, they will hold their first stadium concert, titled Snow Man 1st Stadium Live ~Snow World~. The group have a passionate global fan base, and in addition to their work as a group, Snow Man member Raul has appeared as a model at Paris Fashion Week, while Mukai is set to star in the original Japanese-Thai coproduction feature film (LOVE SONG) directed by Weerachit Thongjila. Meguro, meanwhile, has made history as the first Japanese person to be appointed as a global advertising campaign model for Fendi’s 2025 Spring/Summer menswear collection.

]]><![CDATA[Aiobahn Releases First Single Under Aiobahn +81 Alias: "Tententengokujigokugoku (feat. Nakahira & Pmarusama)"]]>Thu, 06 Feb 2025 01:27:04 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/music/aiobahn-releases-first-single-under-aiobahn-81-alias-tententengokujigokugoku-feat-nakahira-pmarusama

Aiobahn, a unique producer and DJ with roots in electronic dance music who is a luminary in Japan’s subculture scene, has released his first official single under his Aiobahn +81 alias. You can check everything about the single, "Tententengokujigokugoku (feat. Nakahira & Pmarusama)", below.

Aiobahn +81 is the handle name used by Aiobahn to release music and art made by a completely separate personality. Under this name, the producer experiments with otaku culture, from online music to anime songs and videogame music, releasing the hit songs "INTERNET YAMERO" and "Itadaki Babel (Aiobahn +81 Remix)" to over 57 million plays on YouTube.

This exciting first single features Nanahira, who started singing in 2008 and has built a huge fan base in the Japanese and global subculture scenes through her “utaite” cover songs and other work, and Pmarusama., a multitalented entertainer whose hit song "S’il Vous President" blew up on YouTube and TikTok, and who has over 3 million subscribers and over 3.1 billion video views on YouTube.

The song’s title is a play on the Japanese words for heaven and hell. It is reminiscent of the good old days of the music scene on Japan’s Nico Nico Douga video platform, and in true Aiobahn fashion the song’s unpredictable twists and turns keep it fresh and thrilling to the very end. The lyrics are by Yoshimi Yuno from IOSYS, while the song’s sound is rave-tinged dance-pop with a 1990s flavor, and lines sung by the two guest singers’ crash together like an angel and demon colliding on the dancefloor, making for a chaotic experience.

Alongside the release of the new single, a music video also premiered on YouTube today, featuring illustrations and animation by odyk and motion graphics by Nihe – the same team behind Aiobahn's hit song "Shiawaseni nannte naranaide feat. nanawoakari". Don’t miss this wild angel and demon dance.

Since the single was first announced, the unpredictable combination of Aiobahn, Nanahira and Pmarusama. set tongues wagging online; and now that the song is out, the hype is only just beginning. Expect to see Aiobahn make further leaps as he blurs the boundaries between genres and cultures under his new moniker Aiobahn +81.

"Tententengokujigokugoku (feat. Nakahira & Pmarusama)" Download & Streaming Links:
https://avex.lnk.to/tententengokujigokugoku

Aiobahn +81 Profile
Aiobahn, a unique producer and DJ with roots in electronic dance music who is a luminary in Japan’s subculture scene, launches his new alias Aiobahn +81 in 2025. Under this handle, he experiments with otaku culture, from online music to anime songs and videogame music, to release music and art made by a completely separate personality. His first official single under this new moniker is ‘Tententengoku Jigokugoku (feat. Nanahira & Pmaru-sama.)’, released February 5, 2025.

X (Twitter): https://x.com/aiobahn81

Nanahira Profile
Nanahira has been releasing vocal covers of anime songs and Vocaloid songs on video sites since 2008. While she is best known for “denpa”-style songs and high-energy singing, she is also able to change her vocal tone and nuances to sing a wide range of styles. More recently, she has expanded her repertoire to include character voice acting and providing vocal samples for audio libraries. Brandishing her own take on the kawaii movement, Nanahira has gained popularity both in Japan and overseas through her own Confetto group, self-produced music, songs for various music videogames, and live performances.

Pmarusama. Profile
Pmarusama. is a multitalented entertainer whose activity is focused on YouTube and TikTok. Her hit song "S’il Vous President" has been played over 100 million times. Her massively watchable short animations and short videos are also extremely popular, and she currently boasts over 3 million subscribers and over 3.1 billion video views on YouTube.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Pmarusama
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@p_ma_ru
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/p_ma_ru

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