Top 10 tracks from Japan: June’s must-hear singles

The heat is on, and Japan’s music scene is sizzling with fresh new tracks this June. From energetic anthems to dreamy ballads, these singles have captured our attention and become essential additions to our summer soundtrack. Here’s our rundown of the top 10 tracks from Japan for June 2024.

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ATARASHII GAKKO! – ‘Fly High’

Japan’s quirky pop sensations ATARASHII GAKKO! delivered another punch with ‘Fly High’. The theme for Netflix’s ‘Hanma Baki VS Kengan Ashura’, this single is every bit as energetic as you’d expect from AG!. Embodying the song’s gym-worthy beats and motivational lyrics, the video sees the 4-piece getting Baki levels of swole. Released through 88rising, ‘Fly High’ blends their one of a kind sound with anime flair, making it an essential listen for June.

RELATED: ATARASHII GAKKO! take London by storm: A bold debut from Japan’s emerging icons

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Peanuts-kun – ‘Squeeze’

Peanuts-kun’s gritty trap single ‘Squeeze’ made waves after its premiere at Japan’s largest hip-hop festival, POP YOURS 2024. Released ahead of his album ‘BloodBagBrainBomb’, the track tackles societal pressures and the fakery of fame. Despite his playful Vtuber persona, Peanuts-kun shows a serious side on this track. With a music video directed by VMO’s Koide Shunpei, ‘Squeeze’ quickly became a heavy rotator in our office, and it’s not budging anytime soon.

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SHADOWS – ‘CLIMB’

SHADOWS are back with ‘CLIMB’, a powerful post-hardcore anthem released on June 14th under CAFFEINE BOMB ORGANICS. This track marks their return since ‘A Ghost Of Walls’ (2022) and features new permanent members Hayato and Ryo. The band, known for their roots in FACT, continue to elevate their intense and melodic sound. With word of a new album in the works, it’s a good year to be a SHADOWS fan.

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Aiobahn – ‘new world feat. Isekaijoucho’

Aiobahn’s ‘new world’ featuring Isekaijoucho is a dreamy EDM track that highlights his knack for merging mainstream beats with Japanese subculture. With lyrics by KOCHO and a music video directed by HuMuu, this song delivers a nostalgic yet fresh sound that’s perfect for the dance floor or a relaxed evening at home.

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MAXIMUM THE HORMONE – ‘INTENT TO MURDER: INTENT TO KILL -SATSUI vs SATSUI-‘

Known for their wild style, MAXIMUM THE HORMONE’s latest, ‘INTENT TO MURDER: INTENT TO KILL -SATSUI vs SATSUI-‘, is as intense as it sounds. While it doesn’t break new ground for the band, this high-octane metal pop tune ticks all the boxes for a classic MTH rollercoaster. Serving as the theme for ‘Confession’, a film adaptation of the psychological manga of the same name, the music video is a mind-boggling experience, featuring chaotic imagery and a character dubbed the “Ketchup Man”.

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Phantom Siita – ‘Otomodachi’

Produced by pop icon Ado, Phantom Siita’s debut single ‘Otomodachi’ dropped on June 26th, delivering a retro horror vibe. This idol group, consisting of Mona, Miu, Rinka, Hisui, and Moka, offers a fresh take on the genre with themes of hidden truths and friendship betrayals, all wrapped in nostalgic Japanese elements.

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rubens – ‘Tenshi-san’

Tokyo indie rockers rubens released ‘Tenshi-san’, a dreamy track perfect for summer. Serena’s sweet yet husky voice, combined with the band’s nostalgic melody and mellow groove, creates an irresistible hazy summer vibe.

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Sokoninaru – ‘Haikei, reimei wo shitte’

‘Haikei, reimei wo shitte’ by Sokoninaru wraps up their trio of monthly digital singles. This math-rock influenced track is a blend of melodic harmonies and brisk beats, diving deep into themes of self-imposed expectations and ego. It’s a complex and catchy listen ideal for fans of bands like Ling Tosite Sigure.

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3Li¥en – ‘BL333SSED’

Following her appearance in the hit ‘GALS REMIX’ version of Yuki Chiba’s viral track ‘Team Tomodachi’, 3Li¥en’s ‘BL333SSED’ is a short but sweet girly trap track where she drops bars over a Sonic Special Stage remix by New York’s Mono K.. With catchy English lyrics and a sweet melody driven by 3Li¥en’s vocals, this underground rapper is poised to pop off in 2024.

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Hitsujibungaku – ‘Shaun the Sheep (Life’s a Treat)’

Hitsujibungaku surprised everyone with their charming cover of the Shaun the Sheep theme song. Released on June 6th, Sheep Day in Japan, this laid-back rock rendition is a delightful detour from their usual sound, making it a must-listen for fans old and new.