When it comes to the JPOP group Travis Japan I am not the least bit ashamed to say I am biased. 

I first interviewed the seven-member song/dance unit in 2022 when they were still a Junior (trainee) group under one of the biggest talent agencies in Japan. Since then I’ve not only had the pleasure of following their career, but also the absolute honor of meeting them in person. So I can say, from first-hand experience that It’s fitting that their debut album is titled Road to A. 

For them, that A has two meanings. The first is for Authenticity. Through all of their ups and downs, one thing this group has never done is pretend to be anything other than their authentic selves. The second is for Artistry. They are the first to tell you that they’re always learning and growing, as artists, which (from my point of view) is one of their greatest strengths. 

Spend any amount of time with them at all and you’ll see that even when the cameras are off, and they’re able to just be themselves, these unique tigers are nothing other than who they appear to be.

As the “Leader Tiger”, Chaka is dedicated to ensuring each member of the group’s success. Shime, the “Sweet Tiger,” is cute, sensitive, and incredibly kind. Known as the “Pet Tiger” Umi is a devoted friend to anyone and everyone he meets. One smirk from Genta, the “Sexy Tiger” your heart is putty in his hands. Shizu, as the “Comedy Tiger” has one of the brightest smiles and most infectious laughs of anyone I’ve ever met. The “Pure Tiger” Machu and his child-like spirit, keep the group young at heart. A problem solver, Noel, referred to as the “Brain Tiger” is always three steps ahead of any potential problem, and already has a solution should it decide to rear its head. 

Opening with the group’s debut single “JUST DANCE!” The album, released in four different variations, is a melting pot of genre-crossing sound. Highlights include

“LEVEL UP” is another catchy pop song that embodies the spirit of fun the group is known for. 

“Moving Pieces” is still one of my favorite songs and the video is so cerebral and fun!

As the theme to the 2023 drama The Date of Marriage, starring Genta, “99 PERCENT” sprinkles in a pinch of an industrial with R&B to craft an incredibly sexy song (accentuated by the dance video included on Premium Edition T). 

“Okie Dokie!” is an anthem of new beginnings perfectly paired with the next track “Charging!”

With its 80s-style synths, “Candy Kiss” is a symphony of joy, and is not only my favorite track on the album but remains my favorite song by the group overall. However, “King of the Jungle” with its uplifting lyrics and sexy beat is a close second. Incredibly close. 

Included on Premium Edition J is a bonus disc of Junior era tracks, is a song that will always have a special place in my heart  “BIG BANG BOY” because it’s what introduced me to the group. I love the dirty rock power of this track.

Also “Unique Tigers” is one of the songs I’ve had on constant repeat. I love these “Introduction to the unit” songs. 

The other editions include additional songs and video content that make each one as unique as the tigers themselves, and worth collecting each one. Sonically, when you add up every song from every version, the album clocks in at just under 2 hours.  

You can purchase your copy of Road to A through CD JAPAN.

Again, I will fully admit I am biased, but this is one of those albums that doesn’t have a single skippable song. It’s a great introduction to this incredible group. “Road to A” is the perfect first chapter in what I am sure is going to be a thrilling adventure. 

More Travis Japan soon so… 

Stay Tuned.