Himika Akaneya Shifts into the Next Gear with Latest Release!
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“Stereo Sunset” Jacket cover
MF GHOST, the new anime series that is a successor to classic street racing series Initial D, began broadcasting on Sunday, October 1. Now, a “TV size” short version of the ending theme song to this highly anticipated anime, ‘Stereo Sunset (Prod. AmPm)’, was released today – sung by Himika Akaneya from voice actor/idol hybrid unit I☆Ris across all digital streaming platforms.
The ending theme song is performed by Himika Akaneya, who is also a member of i☆Ris. In addition to her work as a voice actor, Akaneya is also active as an actor in movies and on stage, but this will be her debut performance as a solo artist. Akaneya’s song ‘Stereo Sunset (Prod. AmPm)’ is based on city pop, a genre that is hugely popular both in Japan and overseas, and Akaneya was selected for her transparent singing voice that matches the vibe of the song, as well as her unique presence and awesome singing ability.
The track was produced by Japanese masked production duo AmPm, whose music is beloved by fans all over the world – indeed, 80% of their listeners are based outside of Japan. The track combines AmPm’s delicate production skills and comfortable beats with nostalgic lyrics by ARAKI, who regularly writes music for idols, artists and voice actors, to deliver a unique spin on the city pop sound. Akaneya’s gentle singing voice at times veers on spoken word, and the result is a medium-tempo song that is warm and comforting.
In addition to the “TV size” short version of the song becoming available, a teaser video was also released on YouTube.
This teaser video offers a glimpse of the full version, which will be released at a later date, and was shot among the picturesque scenery of the Kamakura/Shonan area of Japan where the anime series MF GHOST is set.
Himika Akaneya commented on ‘Stereo Sunset (Prod. AmPm)’, saying, “The lyrics to this song reference imagery related to driving, such as the ‘stereo’ and ‘a neon heart reflected in the windows’, while the word ‘sunset’ melds perfectly into the song’s relaxing melody, putting the listener right there in the scene. I think you will be able to immerse yourself in the lingering afterglow at the end of each episode of the anime. This will be my first time to sing solo, and while I do feel a little nervous, I’m very happy to be involved with the music for MF GHOST, which is a series loved by many fans. I hope that as each episode ends, this song’s casual melody and poetic flow will touch your heart – even just a little. Please check it out.”
ampm
AmPm, who produced and arranged the music, and ARAKI, who wrote the lyrics, also commented.
AmPm said, “We are delighted to have worked on the ending theme song for MF GHOST. As the title of the song suggests, we created this song by imagining a sunset drive. We aimed to leave listeners with a sense of speed, allowing you to feel the shifting landscape in the afterglow of the day. We hope you will listen to Himika Akaneya’s singing voice and immerse yourself in the afterglow of each episode!”
ARAKI commented, “Back in the day, cafes and ramen shops would have rows of Initial D manga books that had been read until they were worn out. All these years later, it's an honor to be a part of this new story. I tried to find words that had a stylish retro sound and convey a sense of purity. I hope it will make you feel, ‘Oh yeah! Now THAT’s an anime ending song!” The full-length version of ‘Stereo Sunset (Prod. AmPm)’ will be released on CD on November 22.
Look out for anime series MF GHOST, which is sure to be a massive hit, as well as its awesome opening and ending theme songs!
