Japan’s latest music sensation Number_i (@number_i_staff) – who is Sho Hirano (27), Yuta Jinguji (26), and Yuta Kishi (28) – release their much-anticipated debut album, “No.I” today, September 23rd. The album–masterfully performed in Japanese with cuts of English throughout–features 14 tracks ranging from ‘90s style alternative rock, hip-hop, and R&B to UK-influenced indie rock.
Number_i – “INZM” (Official Music Video)
The album kicks off with the hard-hitting single “INZM,” produced by group member Yuta Jinguji–which hit #1 on Billboard Japan’s Hot 100 upon its debut. The action-packed video, which now has almost 38 million views on YouTube, alongside the recently released “INZM (Hyper Band version),” showcases the trio’s infectious energy and undeniable talent.
Number_i – “ICE”
The latest focus track, the sensual “ICE” showcases the band’s versatility, pairing cool beats with the sensation of taking in heat like a sauna in a transcendent contemporary R&B style. The lyrics evoke a desire for passion and closeness: “I’m too hot, I need more ice. Cool me down, diving into pleasure, yeah. Body got me in a trance (You got me in a trance). Noisy heartbeat, I want to melt into silence.”
Number_i – “GOAT” (Official Music Video)
Also appearing on “No.I” is the J-Pop supergroup’s previous single “GOAT,” released following their US debut performance at Coachella earlier this year. It topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart as well as hit #10 on the US iTunes overall chart and #3 on the Hip-Hop chart, creating industry buzz.
Number_i – “BON” (Official Music Video)
The Sho Hirano-produced “BON” single surpassed 10 million views within two days of its release, peaking at #2 globally on YouTube’s daily music video ranking and making their return to the Japan Hot 100 chart, also at #2. Currently, the “BON” music video has over 44 million views on YouTube.
Number_i – “ILY” Single
Number_i slows things down a bit with “iLY,” a longing love song showcasing more vocal range intermixed with their signature hip-hop sensibilities. A more vulnerable take here as two people with an attraction that can’t be fulfilled as fear and insecurity creep in.
The collection comes to a close with the infectious groove of “Streetlights,” a CD bonus dance track not available for streaming. “Streetlights” incorporates the best of EDM, pop, hip-hop, and a tinge of ‘90s R&B. It’s a fitting end to an album that traverses a spectrum of genres and emotions.
Number_i rejects the notion of being easily categorized into a box, but rather exploring and experimenting with sounds that connect with music lovers all around the world. Aside from streaming and chart success, the group has been taking over newsstands in their native country, gracing prominent magazine covers including Newsweek Japan, Elle Japan, Vogue Japan, GQ Japan, and Nylon Japan, in addition to features with Highsnobiety Japan, MAPS Japan, MAPS Korea, Numero TOKYO, 25ans, and The Fashion Post.
Number_i – “No.I” album
We recommend adding songs from Number_i’s “No.I” album to your favorite J-pop playlist. We would love to hear your thoughts! Please comment below and let us know how this album makes you feel. Remember, your feedback helps us bring you more of the music you love. As always, thanks for reading another great article on Bong Mines Entertainment. We’re your go-to source for new music and positive entertainment news. Remember, (P)ositive (E)nergy (A)lways (C)reates (E)levation—P.E.A.C.E.
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