To listen to Naniwa Danshi is to hear happiness. They are the most sparkling boys in J-POP, and I love them for it. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, they are my go-to when I need a dose of Sonic Xanax. Whether it’s pretty in pastels or slick, sleek, and sophisticated in tailored suits, they always brighten my mood, and their newest music video is no exception. 

“Koisuru Hikari” (English: “Light of Love”) is the theme song to the feature film We Don’t Know Love Yet (Koi wo Shiranai Boku Tachi wa), which stars group member Ryusei Onishi. There’s something really special about the music video. Simple and shot with practical effects, the video relies on the magic of imagination, which Naniwa Danshi delivers in spades.

Musically, “Koisuru Hikari” is nothing we haven’t heard from the group before. Bright, bubbly, and sugar-sweet, it’s a typical Naniwa Dashi song with catchy, upbeat lyrics and joyful tones we have all come to know, love, and even expect from the group. But visually, we see a group continuing to mature without losing that spark of the playfulness of youth. Like a stage production of Peter Pan or Haroun and the Sea of Stories, they’ve invited us into the world of their imagination. 

What is, in reality, a simple building is transformed into a vibrant wonderland where flowers bloom just beyond the snow. The boys see themselves reflected into infinity on the other side of the looking glass—the only light in an otherwise darkened space.  

Even in the ‘real world,’ Naniwa Danshi keeps up the playfulness with one of their signature dance routines, which has the TikTok Challenge written all over it. 

A physical disc version of the album will be released on 28 August and will be available wherever Japanese music and movies are sold, including CD Japan.  Available in three different physical CD formats, each disc is packed with bonus tracks, behind-the-scenes video extras, and more! There will also be first-press/limited edition external extras, including: an original cheki (photo) (group x 1 + solo x 8), an A4-sized clear folder, and an original ruler (15cm).

There will be more Naniwa Danshi soon, so… 

Stay Tuned!