This past weekend, the heart of downtown Los Angeles pulsed with the electric energy of Matsuri ’25 LA, an unforgettable celebration of Japanese music and culture. Held on March 16, 2025, at the Peacock Theater and presented by Toyota Group, CEIPA Organization, and Goldenvoice, the event not only served as a milestone for J-pop’s international…
On Monday, March 10th, 2025, the legendary Troubadour in West Hollywood played host to a night filled with electrifying performances, genre-blending sounds, and unforgettable moments. The evening featured an incredible lineup with DJ PENNYWILD kicking things off, followed by the rising Japanese sensation Ayumu Imazu, and culminating in a high-energy set by MAX and Party…
In the ever-expanding world of pop, a new and fresh group has arrived to make their mark on the global stage: cosmosy. Comprised of four talented Japanese members—himesha, de_hana, kamión, and a’mei—cosmosy made their debut with the captivating track “zigy=zigy”. The group’s unique blend of J-pop and K-pop elements immediately grabbed attention, and their powerful…
Japanese girl group Phantom Siita performed in Anaheim on January 30th at the House of Blues. The show was the second stop of the U.S. leg of the group’s first world tour, titled “Moth to a Flame.” With their unique retro-horror concept, anticipation was at a high as fans awaited the group’s appearance. At 7pm…
HYDE, the charismatic front-man of L’Arc-en-Ciel and VAMPS, has been a defining figure in the world of J-pop and Japanese rock for decades. With his ever-evolving artistry and dedication to exploring new musical territories, he has gained a global fan base. In an exclusive interview, HYDE shared his thoughts on the rise of J-pop, his…
The legendary Japanese rock star HYDE had a thrilling performance at The NOVO in Los Angeles on Saturday, November 30, 2024. As another incredible night on HYDE’s tour, fans were treated to an exciting blend of rock anthems, heartfelt ballads, and captivating visuals. HYDE Requires Chaos The concert opened with LET IT OUT where HYDE…
Together with Inspector and Out of Control Army, Japan‘s Hey-Smith opened for Panteón Rococó on September 27, 2024, at Toyota Arena. It was an electrifying evening of ska-punk. Quickly Begins the Show Hey-Smith fascinated the audience from the first note of their song with “Fellowship Anthem,” a flurry of energy accompanied by booming trumpet parts…
PONY CANYON INC. (“Pony Canyon”) held a press conference and reception on July 3rd, 2024, at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles, an international outreach hub of Japan. The event drew the attention of approximately 130 entertainment industry insiders and media from Japan and the U.S., leaving the organizers pleased to see that even standing-room only guests…
In their latest album “Unspoiled,” Kroi remains true to their core genres like funk and soul, while incorporating sounds with a foreign flair. The album also includes various pop tracks that served as anime opening themes, enhancing the excitement of those series,making “Unspoiled” a highly experimental work. The album features three already-released singles—”Hyper” (opening theme…
HANABIE. kicked off their eponymous tour Friday, May 17th, on the East Coast in New Haven, CT. The Japanese quartet consists of Yukina (vocals), Matsuri (guitar), Hettsu (bass), and Chika (drums). They have self-described themselves as Harajuku-core (a colorful and flamboyant street fashion style). However, their fashion aesthetics may be misleading to a passerby. As…
