MMN Interview: SCANDAL look back at their overseas performances since their debut and going from “anime characters” to a “band” (Part One)
In 2016, SCANDAL toasted to ten years since their formation, and this autumn, they will celebrate their 10th anniversary since their major debut. The band released their eighth album HONEY this month which peaked at number one on Japan’s iTunes album charts on the day of release and ranked number one in iTunes J-pop charts across the globe including Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Peru. Last year, 3 of the band members – Haruna (Vocals/Guitar), Mami (Guitar/Vocals) and Tomomi (Bass/Vocals) – became the first Japanese female artists to sign an endorsement agreement with Fender. It is evident for all to see that SCANDAL are building and fortifying their career as an all-girls band representing Japan in both name and reality. In this interview, the four members looked back at their overseas activity and told various stories from their perspective as an all-female band.
Interview & Text: Mami Naruta / Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
■”I think people overseas felt that we were performing anime characters”
――In the “HISTORY” column of your 10-year anniversary website, you have a timeline for your music activities for both Japan and the rest of the world lined up side-by-side. I felt that this was a reminder of how your band are enthusiastic about activities overseas. Your first overseas action was an American tour across six cities before your major debut in 2008. That’s amazing.
Rina (Drums/Vocals): Yes, our first tour was in America, wasn’t it? We did all of that despite being an independent band who hadn’t even toured Japan yet. Back then we went forward with finishing everything we did to the end like crazy every time, but we had a strong connection overseas at the time, so from that year onward we went there every year without fail. At first, we felt like we were just children without a cause, but we gradually became something that couldn’t be ignored. Bands would cover our songs overseas, and the number of people who came to like us after watching us on YouTube went beyond our imaginations. Our fundamental stance is to go and perform in places where there are people demanding for us, so we focus on performing live without creating borders around the world.
――I see. Looking in detail, your first few years saw you perform at a lot of Japanese culture festivals such as “Japan Expo” and “AM2.” That was a time when you performed in uniform-style costumes, wasn’t it?
Mami (Guitar/Vocals): It was. The “Age of Uniforms” (laughs). That was a time when we did theme songs for anime, so the uniforms were part of it. We were also called to perform at a lot of festivals that promoted Japanese culture too.
Tomomi (Bass/Vocals): In our early days, we even had an animation kind of thing of us all on our official MySpace page. And we received a lot of attention from people overseas, so it felt like “animation” was spreading across the world as part of Japanese culture.
――From your experience having stepped onto the international stage, have you felt a desire for Japanese culture overseas, and by extension a culture for Japanese girl bands?
Haruna (Vocals/Guitar): We were also unaware of it at the time. We were simply happy with the demand and could feel the joy of being able to perform live in lots of places, so that’s why we went. It might have only been recently that we became conscious of looking to overseas seriously as a girl band.
Rina: I think that awareness strengthened when we came to perform solo shows. And our overseas fans also changed with it. At culture festivals, there were many people there simply out of curiosity who weren’t our target goal, and there were a lot of people who were also interested and felt Japanese culture in the seifuku costumes. I think from the point of view of people overseas, it felt like we were like anime characters performing.
――In 2015, you held a huge world tour where you performed 41 shows across Japan, France, the UK, Germany, America, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan and Hong Kong.
Rina: There were more people who had watched our music videos on YouTube than those who knew us from anime on this tour. I felt that people came along to support us as a band. The atmosphere was totally different in the venues too compared to our early days.
Mami: I believe there’s something historical about being in a position where people know your existence from social media and video-sharing websites. When we began our career, social media still wasn’t being used all that much in Japan, and YouTube as it’s used today wasn’t a thing. I feel the change in times with regard to our connection overseas.
■”Our world tour made me feel that ‘SCANDAL’ had come to be seen as a band in and of itself”
――Having toured 9 countries, please tell me about any impressions that have been left on you, on or off stage.
Rina: We’ve had the opportunity to do a lot of interviews, but I’ve noticed that the content of the interviews have changed from place to place. Before, we’d get asked a lot of questions related to anime like “What do you think of anime?” and “What kind of anime theme song do you want to do next?” But now the questions are focused on the band itself. It made me feel that “SCANDAL” had come to be seen as a band in and of itself, without anime.
Mami: Mexico and South America in particular are places where the way in which Japanese bands are viewed on YouTube are different from other countries. In other countries, anime and manga take priority. How people find us derives from there most of the time. But in South America, “Japanese bands” are an established cultural genre. They search for Japanese bands from the get-go, they find their favourite and share it with friends. That’s how we’re introduced over there. I was really happy that they viewed us in that way.
Rina: Something I remember from on-stage… The way people enjoy live performances. I saw how each country really does have its own unique culture. In Japan I don’t think we have that style of support where we hold up our country’s flag, but there are places where people have fun by waving their own country’s flag and drink and dance.
Tomomi: For example, football is really popular in Mexico. When we turn the lights off in the venue, people chant “Olé, Olé, Olé” like a sports match.
Rina: Right? When we toured Europe, there was someone on stage [to introduce us and] get the crowd excited. They’d say something like “Here’s SCANDAL!” and the sound effects would begin playing (laughs). I noticed how the beginning of shows was different in each country and location.
Haruna: In Asia, there were a lot of times where everybody sang together. It happens a lot in Japan too where people sing the chorus together, but elsewhere they sing the entire song from start to finish, don’t they?
Rina: So much so that everyone’s voices become even louder than Haruna’s mic volume (laughs).
Mami: Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore were just like that, weren’t they? Usually people listen and are just there in whatever way they like. Their love really got through.
Tomomi: Something I find different from Japan are people’s interests. There’s a real diversity in the people that attend, from older people who look like fans of that venue to the edgy punk type. I’m super interested in how they came to know SCANDAL. Well, I know social media is big, so if it was 10 years ago, I think the people who we couldn’t meet will come to our world tours now.
Rina: It’s precisely because we can look up and find our favourite things that our interests are so broad.
■”It doesn’t matter how we’re perceived, what’s most important is that people can enjoy us”
――Have your perceptions changed in relation to performing?
Rina: Strictly speaking, we’ve made a lot of changes to our sound and equipment, but our songs are all sung in Japanese, and I feel that wherever we go to perform I want to do everything the same without any changes. What does change is how we communicate with fans on-stage. We’re working hard to be able to speak in a country’s language as much as possible.
Mami: People really get in the music easily, so if they’re excited, they’ll join us. I feel people come to the shows and have fun, so there are no worries there.
――This is a simple question, but do overseas music fans know the difference between idol groups and girl bands? Regardless of the use of instruments or not, do you think that there are people who perceive Japanese girl groups as “idols”?
Mami: I think their understanding of the word “idol” is different from that in Japan. In Japan, it’s a single genre, but overseas, it’s someone who has an influence on you or someone you love. It’s someone you yearn for and someone whose existence is like that of a star. I think that grasp of the word is much stronger, so there might not be a lot of people who do make that distinction.
Rina: Don’t get me wrong, but I think either is fine. We don’t go out of our way to say “but we’re not idols.” Being seen this way means not giving special instructions and just have people come to like and enjoy our music. Because I think idols and bands are both cool. I find idols to truly be multi-players. They can sing, dance, act and have variety, and are really outgoing in a human way. Even in a band set-up, an idol’s nature can become their weapon of choice – their charm. I want us to be a group that can be enjoyed as humans, so even if there are people who see us as idols, I can say in all honestly that it doesn’t make us feel uncomfortable in terms of motivation. If people can enjoy us and say “They’re an interesting bunch,” then that makes me the happiest.
Release Information:
SCANDAL – NEW ALBUM “HONEY”
Released February 14, 2018 (Physical Version)
▼Limited Pressing Edition (CD+T-shirt)
[ESCL4957-4958] ￥5,278 (tax excl.) ￥5,700 (tax incl.)
Comes with an original photo t-shirt produced by AMIAYA!
▼First Press Limited Edtion (CD+DVD)
[ESCL4959-4960] ￥3,426 (tax excl.) ￥3,700 (tax incl.)
DVD: Footage of 11th anniversary concert “Storytellers: SCANDAL”
▼Regular Edition (First Press) (CD)
[ESCL4961] ￥2,963 (tax excl.) ￥3,200 (tax incl.)
Official Album Website: http://www.scandal-honey.com/
New Album “HONEY” Digital Download: https://erj.lnk.to/-gqrHWN
Tour Information: http://www.scandal-4.com/live/archive/?43093
SCANDAL Official Website: http://www.scandal-4.com/
SCANDAL Official YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/scandalSMEJ
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
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Japan’s leading all-girl rock SCANDAL are popular worldwide, but are especially popular among the female youth of Japan.
The four-piece band released their eighth album HONEY on February 14th. To celebrate, they held a free live show at Zepp DiverCity in Tokyo. Lucky fans from around the country were selected randomly from a lottery system they had to sign up to.
The set began with Koisuru Universe which was released as their first ever digital-only single last year. This was SCANDAL’s first performance of 2018, and fans who had been waiting in anticipation for this concert showed their excitement and sang their hearts out for the opening.
The set list was specially selected for this particular show, featuring songs such as Platform Syndrome from their new album and their Valentine’s Day number Bitter Chocolate. Vocalist and guitarist Haruna gave shared her thoughts on the band’s latest record: “We put ourselves into HONEY, and songs that we can write because we’re an all-girls band. I’m truly happy we were able to produce such an album with just us.”Rina – the band’s drummer and vocalist – also expressed her gratitude to fans with all her heart. “It’s been 10 years since our major debut. I’m happy we could create just this impulsive album. I hope it can brighten the moods of those who listen to it, and that it can become music to save someone during difficult times.”
SCANDAL played 10 songs in total, including OVER for the very first time. They announced that they will embark on a hall tour to the packed venue which sparked cheers through the room.
SCANDAL will began their nationwide hall tour SCANDAL TOUR 2018 “HONEY” from March, marking their first hall tour in almost 3 years. They will subsequently go on to perform throughout Asia for SCANDAL ASIA TOUR 2018 “HONEY”.The girls are making their name more and more known to the world by the day. Stay tuned for the latest updates.
■Information
New Album “HONEY” Digital Download:
https://erj.lnk.to/-gqrHWNCD Pre-Order:
https://erj.lnk.to/g22xMWNRelease Information:
SCANDAL – NEW ALBUM “HONEY”
On sale February 14, 2018 (Physical Version)▼Limited Pressing Edition (CD+T-shirt)
[ESCL4957-4958] ￥5,278 (tax excl.) ￥5,700 (tax incl.)
Comes with an original photo t-shirt produced by AMIAYA!▼First Press Limited Edtion (CD+DVD)
[ESCL4959-4960] ￥3,426 (tax excl.) ￥3,700 (tax incl.)
DVD: Footage of 11th anniversary concert “Storytellers: SCANDAL”▼Regular Edition (First Press) (CD)
[ESCL4961] ￥2,963 (tax excl.) ￥3,200 (tax incl.)Album Tracklist:
01. Platform Syndrome
02. OVER
03. Take Me Out
04. Oh! No!
05. Midnight City
06. Short Short
07. Mado wo Aketara
08. Futari
09. Electronic Girl
10. Koisuru Universe
*tracks are the same across all editionsDVD Contents:
“Storytellers: SCANDAL”
01. Shunkan Sentimental
02. Kimi to Yoru to Namida
03. LOVE ME DO
04. Koe (Acoustic ver.)
05. DOLL
06. Koisuru Universe
07. Take Me Out
08. 8-Gatsu
09. SCANDAL BABY
*available on First Press Limited Edition onlyOfficial Album Website: http://www.scandal-honey.com/
【Tour Information】
http://www.scandal-4.com/live/archive/?43093【SCANDAL Official Website】
http://www.scandal-4.com/【SCANDAL Official YouTube Channel】
https://www.youtube.com/user/scandalSMEJ -
Japan’s coolest all-girl rock SCANDAL band boast popularity all over the globe, especially among the female youth of Japan.
The band’s newest album HONEY was released digitally on February 12th, stealing the number one spot on iTunes’ album charts, Mora’s New Album Rankings, and Recochoku’s Daily Album Rankings.New Album “HONEY” Trailer
SCANDAL‘s eighth album to date, HONEY was released simultaneously overseas and peaked at number one on iTunes charts and J-pop charts across various countries including Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Peru – the list goes on.
SCANDAL have stolen the spotlight not only in Japan but around the world. They are at the top when it comes to Japan’s all-girls band scene. Hopes are looking high for SCANDAL as we head further into 2018. Stay tuned for the latest updates.
■Information
New Album “HONEY” Digital Download:
https://erj.lnk.to/-gqrHWNCD Pre-Order:
https://erj.lnk.to/g22xMWNRelease Information:
SCANDAL – NEW ALBUM “HONEY”
On sale February 14, 2018 (Physical Version)▼Limited Pressing Edition (CD+T-shirt)
[ESCL4957-4958] ￥5,278 (tax excl.) ￥5,700 (tax incl.)
Comes with an original photo t-shirt produced by AMIAYA!▼First Press Limited Edtion (CD+DVD)
[ESCL4959-4960] ￥3,426 (tax excl.) ￥3,700 (tax incl.)
DVD: Footage of 11th anniversary concert “Storytellers: SCANDAL”▼Regular Edition (First Press) (CD)
[ESCL4961] ￥2,963 (tax excl.) ￥3,200 (tax incl.)Album Tracklist:
01. Platform Syndrome
02. OVER
03. Take Me Out
04. Oh! No!
05. Midnight City
06. Short Short
07. Mado wo Aketara
08. Futari
09. Electronic Girl
10. Koisuru Universe
*tracks are the same across all editionsDVD Contents:
“Storytellers: SCANDAL”
01. Shunkan Sentimental
02. Kimi to Yoru to Namida
03. LOVE ME DO
04. Koe (Acoustic ver.)
05. DOLL
06. Koisuru Universe
07. Take Me Out
08. 8-Gatsu
09. SCANDAL BABY
*available on First Press Limited Edition onlyOfficial Album Website: http://www.scandal-honey.com/
【Tour Information】
http://www.scandal-4.com/live/archive/?43093【SCANDAL Official Website】
http://www.scandal-4.com/【SCANDAL Official YouTube Channell】
https://www.youtube.com/user/scandalSMEJ -
SCANDAL are Japan’s coolest girl rock band, boasting popularity all over the globe, and in particular within the teenage girl scene in Japan.
To celebrate the release of their new album HONEY, a pop up shop titled SCANDAL HONEY SHOP will open for a limited period from February 13th to March 4th at TOWERmini Morinomiya Q’s Mall, a small Tower Records concept shop in Osaka.
Fans can look forward to seeing outfits worn by the SCANDAL members on display as well as an exhibition of live photos. A music campaign will also be held. Capsules will also be sold containing a square badge selected randomly from a possible 11. Ten of them feature the band’s CD covers, and the other is a secret.
But it doesn’t stop there, as SCANDAL and Tower Records have teamed up to create an original coach jacket which will be available to purchase. Limited runs of the jacket will be sold at 12 Tower Records branches across Japan.
In line with the release of their Valentine’s Day original album on February 14th, SCANDAL have also created a Valentine’s themed playlist on Spotify titled “Valentine Gift from SCANDAL.”
The playlist features a SCANDAL track as well as a selection of songs chosen by each member that resonates with them, all specially picked for the Valentine’s season
SCANDAL will perform on the NHK show “SHIBUYA NOTE” on February 4th where they will perform the song Platform Syndrome from their forthcoming album on TV for the very first time. Don’t miss out.
Stay tuned for the latest news on Japan’s biggest all-female rock band!
■Information
SCANDAL – “HONEY” Pop-Up Shop “SCANDAL HONEY SHOP”
Address: TOWERmini Morinomiya Q’s Mall, Morinomiya Q’s Mall BASE 1F, 2-1-70 Morinomiyachuo, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Prefecture
Running: February 13, 2018 – March 4, 2018
Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00
Website: http://tower.jp/store＜Outfit Exhibition＞
The exhibition features outfits worn by scandal during their 2017 tour SCANDAL TOUR 2017 “SCANDAL no Taiban Tour”
・Haruna & Mami’s Outfits – February 13th to February 22nd
・Tomomi & Rina’s Outfits – February 23rd to March 4th＜Music Campaign & Exhibition Panel Lottery Present＞
People that purchase any of the three editions of SCANDAL’s new album HONEY set for release on February 14th (Limited Pressing Edition w/CD + T-shirt, First Press Limited Edition w/CD+DVD, Regular Edition) along with a previous SCANDAL release (a CD, Blu-ray or DVD) will be entered into a lottery to win a signed panel.
*You will be entered into the lottery one time upon purchasing the album HONEY together with a previous release.
*Entries will close one the panel exhibition finishes.
*The prize will be a signed panel displayed in-store.
*The winner will be contacted by telephone and put on the notice board in-store (the announcement will be given from mid-March)＜Capsules＞
Available: February 13, 2018 until all have been sold.
Price: ￥300 each
*The number of capsules a person can purchase may be limited during busy times.＜SCANDAL×TOWER RECORDS Coach Jacket＞
Sizes: S / M / L / XL
Price: ￥7,000 (tax incl.)
Available: February 13, 2018 when the shop opens to closing time.
*This product is limited in stock and sales will end once all have been sold. (*online purchases open from 10am)Participating Tower Records Branches:
Tower Records Shibuya, Shinjuku, Sapporo PIVOT, Ikebukuro, Machida, Nagoya PARCO, Umeda Osaka Marubiru, Namba, Umeda NU Chayamachi, TOWERmini Morinomiya Q’s Mall, Hiroshima, Fukuoka PARCO, Tower Records Online (http://tower.jp/).
*Reservations for the coach jacket cannot be made in-store or online, and products cannot be set aside for buyers. You must purchase it straight away after it goes on sale either in-store or online.Collaborative Merchandise Page: http://tower.jp/scandalgoods
Spotify Playlist: Valentine Gift from SCANDAL
Broadcast Information:
NHK “SHIBUYA NOTE”
February 4th at 17:00-17:54
http://www.nhk.or.jp/s-oto/shibuya/Release Information:
SCANDAL – NEW ALBUM “HONEY”
On sale February 14, 2018▼Limited Pressing Edition (CD+T-shirt)
[ESCL4957-4958] ￥5,278 (tax excl.) ￥5,700 (tax incl.)
Comes with an original photo t-shirt produced by AMIAYA!▼First Press Limited Edtion (CD+DVD)
[ESCL4959-4960] ￥3,426 (tax excl.) ￥3,700 (tax incl.)
DVD: Footage of 11th anniversary concert “Storytellers: SCANDAL”▼Regular Edition (First Press) (CD)
[ESCL4961] ￥2,963 (tax excl.) ￥3,200 (tax incl.)Album Tracklist:
01. Platform Syndrome
02. OVER
03. Take Me Out
04. Oh! No!
05. Midnight City
06. Short Short
07. Mado wo Aketara
08. Futari
09. Electronic Girl
10. Koisuru Universe
*tracks are the same across all editionsDVD Contents:
“Storytellers: SCANDAL”
01. Shunkan Sentimental
02. Kimi to Yoru to Namida
03. LOVE ME DO
04. Koe (Acoustic ver.)
05. DOLL
06. Koisuru Universe
07. Take Me Out
08. 8-Gatsu
09. SCANDAL BABY
*available on First Press Limited Edition onlyOfficial Album Website: http://www.scandal-honey.com/
“Platform Syndrome” Music Video On Gyao!
https://gyao.yahoo.co.jp/player/00100/v08107/v0993900000000548963/“HONEY” iTunes Pre-Order & “Platform Syndrome” Early Release:
https://erj.lnk.to/-gqrHWNSCANDAL Official Website:
http://www.scandal-4.com/ -
SCANDAL are Japan’s coolest girl rock band, boasting popularity all over the globe, and in particular within the teenage girl scene in Japan.
It has been announced that pre-orders for their forthcoming album HONEY, set for release on February 14th, have opened on iTunes. Pre-order now to hear the song Platform Syndrome early.
The physical CD version of the album will be released on February 14th, but you’ll be able to download it two day earlier if you purchase the digital copy on iTunes, Recochoku and mora.
The music video for Platform Syndrome was posted on Yahoo! JAPAN’s video streaming service Gyao!. The video features the four members rocking out in a room together on their instruments, and captures the emotional, fast-paced rhythm of the song.
“Platform Syndrome” Music Video
*please note that the video may not be available outside Japan
Pre-order the album now and don’t miss out on the chance to hear Platform Syndrome before release!
◼︎Information
“HONEY” Album Pre-order (*allows early access to song Platform Syndrome)
https://erj.lnk.to/-gqrHWNRelease Information
SCANDAL
NEW ALBUM “HONEY”
On sale February 14, 2018▼Limited Pressing Edition (CD+T-shirt)
[ESCL4957-4958] ￥5,278 (tax excl.) ￥5,700 (tax incl.)
Comes with an original photo t-shirt produced by AMIAYA!▼First Press Limited Edtion (CD+DVD)
[ESCL4959-4960] ￥3,426 (tax excl.) ￥3,700 (tax incl.)
DVD: Footage of 11th anniversary concert “Storytellers: SCANDAL”▼Regular Edition (First Press) (CD)
[ESCL4961] ￥2,963 (tax excl.) ￥3,200 (tax incl.)Album Tracklist:
01. Platform Syndrome
02. OVER
03. Take Me Out
04. Oh! No!
05. Midnight City
06. Short Short
07. Mado wo Aketara
08. Futari
09. Electronic Girl
10. Koisuru Universe*tracks are the same across all editions
DVD Contents:
“Storytellers: SCANDAL”
01. Shunkan Sentimental
02. Kimi to Yoru to Namida
03. LOVE ME DO
04. Koe (Acoustic ver.)
05. DOLL
06. Koisuru Universe
07. Take Me Out
08. 8-Gatsu
09. SCANDAL BABY*available on First Press Limited Edition only
Official Album Website: http://www.scandal-honey.com/
Tour Information
SCANDAL TOUR 2018 “HONEY”
03.03.18 @ Misato City Culture Hall – Large Hall (Saitama)
09.03.18 @ Kagoshima Citizens’ Cultural Hall – Hall 2 (Kagoshima)
10.03.18 @ Fukuoka Civic Hall (Fukuoka)
16.03.18 @ Sendai Ginko Hall Izumity 21 – Large Hall (Miyagi)
17.03.18 @ Morioka Civic Hall Cultural Hall – Large Hall (Iwate)
21.03.18 @ Wak Wak Holiday Hall – Sapporo Civic Hall (Hokkaido)
24.03.18 @ Sano Citizens’ Cultural Hall – Large Hall (Tochigi)
25.03.18 @ Yuki Civic Culture Center ACROSS – Large Hall (Ibaraki)
31.03.18 @ Niigata Prefectural Civic Center (Niigata)
01.04.18 @ Honda no Mori Hall (Ishikawa)
07.04.18 @ Hiroshima Bunka Gakuen HBG Hall (Hiroshima)
08.04.18 @ Yonago City Cultural Hall (Tottori)
14.04.18 @ NTK Forest Hall (Aichi)
15.04.18 @ NTK Forest Hall (Aichi)
21.04.18 @ Sunport Hall Takamatsu – Large Hall (Kagawa)20
22.04.18 @ Nara Centennial Hall – Large Hall (Nara)
27.04.18 @ Orix Theater (Osaka)
28.04.18 @ Orix Theater (Osaka)
11.05.18 @ Nakano Sun Plaza (Tokyo)
12.05.18 @ Nakano Sun Plaza (Tokyo)
18.05.18 @ Shizuoka City Shimizu Cultural Center Marinart – Large Hall (Shizuoka)
19.05.18 @ Gifu Civic Auditorium (Gifu)
25.05.18 @ Kobe International Hall Kokusai Hall (Hyogo)Tour Information Page: http://www.scandal-4.com/live/archive/?43093
Ticket Price: ￥5,800 (tax incl.) *reserved seating
*up to 4 tickets per person
*all reserved seating (those aged 4-years and above must hold a valid ticket)SCANDAL Official Website: http://www.scandal-4.com/
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Immensely popular 4-piece rockers SCANDAL will release their next studio album Honey on February 14th. In the meantime, the girls have unveiled the awaited CD cover for the record.
As with SCANDAL’s recently released artist photo, Tokyo fashion icon twins AMIAYA worked as the visual producers for the covers.
The tracklist and contents of the album have also been announced. A total of 10 songs grace the band’s eight studio album, all written and composed by the members. Honey includes Take Me Out, a song already available both physically and digitally, Koisuru Universe, and Platform Syndrome which was performed for the first time at their Christmas live event last month.
The first press limited-edition version of the album is coupled with a DVD that includes footage from the band’s special 11th anniversary concert Storytellers: SCANDAL.
The limited pressing edition comes with a t-shirt also designed by AMIAYA.
Be sure to check out the cute artwork of SCANDAL’s new album courtesy of AMIAYA.
◼︎InformationRelease Information
SCANDAL
NEW ALBUM “HONEY”
On sale February 14, 2018▼Limited Pressing Edition (CD+T-shirt)
[ESCL4957-4958] ￥5,278 (tax excl.) ￥5,700 (tax incl.)
Comes with an original photo t-shirt produced by AMIAYA!▼First Press Limited Edtion (CD+DVD)
[ESCL4959-4960] ￥3,426 (tax excl.) ￥3,700 (tax incl.)
DVD: Footage of 11th anniversary concert “Storytellers: SCANDAL”▼Regular Edition (First Press) (CD)
[ESCL4961] ￥2,963 (tax excl.) ￥3,200 (tax incl.)Album Tracklist:
01. Platform Syndrome
02. OVER
03. Take Me Out
04. Oh! No!
05. Midnight City
06. Short Short
07. Mado wo Aketara
08. Futari
09. Electronic Girl
10. Koisuru Universe*tracks are the same across all editions
DVD Contents:
“Storytellers: SCANDAL”
01. Shunkan Sentimental
02. Kimi to Yoru to Namida
03. LOVE ME DO
04. Koe (Acoustic ver.)
05. DOLL
06. Koisuru Universe
07. Take Me Out
08. 8-Gatsu
09. SCANDAL BABY*available on First Press Limited Edition only
Official Album Website: http://www.scandal-honey.com/
Tour Information
SCANDAL TOUR 2018 “HONEY”
03.03.18 @ Misato City Culture Hall – Large Hall (Saitama)
09.03.18 @ Kagoshima Citizens’ Cultural Hall – Hall 2 (Kagoshima)
10.03.18 @ Fukuoka Civic Hall (Fukuoka)
16.03.18 @ Sendai Ginko Hall Izumity 21 – Large Hall (Miyagi)
17.03.18 @ Morioka Civic Hall Cultural Hall – Large Hall (Iwate)
21.03.18 @ Wak Wak Holiday Hall – Sapporo Civic Hall (Hokkaido)
24.03.18 @ Sano Citizens’ Cultural Hall – Large Hall (Tochigi)
25.03.18 @ Yuki Civic Culture Center ACROSS – Large Hall (Ibaraki)
31.03.18 @ Niigata Prefectural Civic Center (Niigata)
01.04.18 @ Honda no Mori Hall (Ishikawa)
07.04.18 @ Hiroshima Bunka Gakuen HBG Hall (Hiroshima)
08.04.18 @ Yonago City Cultural Hall (Tottori)
14.04.18 @ NTK Forest Hall (Aichi)
15.04.18 @ NTK Forest Hall (Aichi)
21.04.18 @ Sunport Hall Takamatsu – Large Hall (Kagawa)20
22.04.18 @ Nara Centennial Hall – Large Hall (Nara)
27.04.18 @ Orix Theater (Osaka)
28.04.18 @ Orix Theater (Osaka)
11.05.18 @ Nakano Sun Plaza (Tokyo)
12.05.18 @ Nakano Sun Plaza (Tokyo)
18.05.18 @ Shizuoka City Shimizu Cultural Center Marinart – Large Hall (Shizuoka)
19.05.18 @ Gifu Civic Auditorium (Gifu)
25.05.18 @ Kobe International Hall Kokusai Hall (Hyogo)Tour Information Page: http://www.scandal-4.com/live/archive/?43093
Ticket Price: ￥5,800 (tax incl.) *reserved seating
*up to 4 tickets per person
*all reserved seating (those aged 4-years and above must hold a valid ticket)SCANDAL Official Website: http://www.scandal-4.com/
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SCANDAL held their Christmas live show again this year. BEST★Xmas 2017 was held at MAINABI BLITZ ASAKUSA on December 24th. The event is a special solo Christmas show from SCANDAL held at Christmastime.
The night began with a performance “Koisuru Universe” which was released as a digital-only single in October. Lead vocalist and guitarist Haruna pumped the crowed with her words, saying: “Today is all about us and everyone here you having fun! I’m sure there are Christmas concerts being held at various places around Japan, but let’s aim aim for a bigger and better Christmas show than all the rest!” (*translated from Japanese)
The show was different from SCANDAL’s regular solo concerts as they put on a Christmasy performances, played covers where they sang and dance without their instruments, held a quiz and more, packing it with just about everything you could hope for from SCANDAL to make it a truly special one to remember.
During the middle of the set, the band performed a song titled Platform Syndrome for the very first time form their forthcoming new album HONEY set to hit shelves next year on February 14th. It was a pleasing and exciting Christmas present for all the fans.
2017 was a busy year SCANDAL as they packed their scheduled with tours and performances such as the 47-prefectural tour, festival appearances, tai-ban tours and more. It was recently announced that AMIAYA will be in charge of the artwork direction for their new album. The band will also embark on a nationwide hall tour next year, their first in three years.
Let us look forward to what 2018 will bring for SCANDAL and fans.
■Information
SCANDAL
New Album – “HONEY”
On sale February 14, 2018
Album Website: http://www.scandal-honey.com/
SCANDAL Official Website: http://www.scandal-4.com/
RELATED ENTRIES
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The popular girl group SCANDAL will release a live performance video of the song Prism, which was performed during the World Tour last year. The group will also release MIRROR, a documentary, on Blu-ray and DVD on February 22, 2023.
SCANDAL embarked on the WORLD TOUR MIRROR 2022 from March to September 2022, performing in Japan, North America, and Europe. While the girls faced difficulties performing in the U.S. due to the pandemic, they have continued to tour Japan and abroad, celebrating 15 years of musical activities. The new live video was produced using select scenes from each show on the world tour. Prism shows off the individuality of the four members, filled with confidence and a trailblazing spirit.
Starting April 7, the SCANDAL TOUR 2023 unlimited UTOPIA will begin, visiting seven cities across Japan: Sapporo, Sendai, Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka. The group’s new song Line of sight is currently being used as the theme song for the arcade card game Mobile Suit Gundam Arsenal Base LINXTAGE.
Information
SCANDAL – MIRROR (Documentary) Blu-ray/DVD
Release Date: February 22, 2023
Details: https://www.her-label.com/Documentary_film_MIRROR/
Official Site: https://www.scandal-4.com/ -
On February 22, the popular rock band SCANDAL will release the documentary MIRROR on Blu-ray and DVD. In April, the artists will embark on the SCANDAL TOUR 2023 – Unlimited UTOPIA, performing in seven cities across Japan.
The new song Line of Sight was written by the band to serve as the theme song for the arcade card game Mobile Suit Gundam Arsenal Base LINXTAGE, scheduled to release in late February. Read SCANDAL’s comment below!
Mobile Suit Gundam Arsenal Base LINXTAGE〈LINXTAGE SEASON:01〉PV
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“We’re pleased to announce that we’ve been put in charge of the theme song for Mobile Suit Gundam Arsenal Base LINXTAGE.
This summer, SCANDAL will celebrate our 17th anniversary. What a great time to get this incredible offer!
We met with the team behind Arsenal Base and shared our thoughts and feelings before starting production on the song.
In the game, music is played during battle scenes, where players’ emotions are heightened. Considering that, we wrote a fast-paced, danceable track.
In the end, we combined our own thoughts and feelings with the world of Gundam. Be sure to listen to the lyrics closely!
Please enjoy our music as you play Arsenal Base!
—Mobile Suit Gundam Arsenal Base is a real-time strategy arcade card game in which players take on the role of a commander in control of five mobile suits and five pilots fighting to destroy a collection of enemy battleships. Found in many arcades across Japan, players place pilot cards on the terminal in dedicated boxes. The terminal then reads a QR code on each card. The series will soon introduce tons of new content including the LINXTAGE BATTLE system, in which two players can enter battle at the same time. Be sure to listen to a snippet of Line of Sight in the new PV!
Information
SCANDAL – MIRROR Documentary Film (Blu-ray/DVD)
Release Date: February 22, 2023
https://www.her-label.com/Documentary_film_MIRROR/ -
Following the release of their 10th album MIRROR in January 2022, all-girl band SCANDAL began their world tour in March of this year. After successfully performing 11 shows in 10 locations around Japan, the girls will be heading to North America and Europe starting in July. The final Japan performance took place at the famous Nakano Sunplaza on June 11.
Celebrating 15 successful years in 2021, the ten-track 10th original album MIRROR includes popular singles like eternal and ivory. The album includes songs written, composed, and sung by each member, and is beloved by longtime and new fans alike. The group’s previous world tour was canceled due to the pandemic, and this will be the first time the girls have performed abroad in four years. During the group’s final show in Japan, SCANDAL performed 22 songs from both their new album and past releases, delighting longtime fans and newcomers alike.
The concert at Nakano Sunplaza began with the title song MIRROR. The audience’s excitement only increased as the members began playing Flashback No. 5 and EVERYBODY SAY YEAH, two classic tracks. The band continued to perform songs from the new album, with some written and sung by specific members. Tracks from the beginning of SCANDAL’s career also appeared in the setlist, including Instant Sentimental, Take Me Out, and A.M.D.K.J. The show fittingly ended with one more time, the last song on MIRROR.
SCANDAL will travel to North America in July and to Europe in September, so keep an eye out for when the girls come to your town!
SCANDAL WORLD TOUR 2022 – MIRROR in JAPAN
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/65LIl0fhilWNrU7SgfMsDk?si=Fm31NSFKROyqjZMYDU3OSg
Information
SCANDAL WORLD TOUR 2022 – MIRROR
■North America
July 9, 2022 – Queen Elizabeth Hall（Toronto）
July 11, 2022 – Sony Hall（New York City）
July 13, 2022 – Big Night Live（Boston）
July 15, 2022 – The Masquerade（Atlanta）
July 16, 2022 – House of Blues（Chicago）
July 18, 2022 – The Imperial（Vancouver）
July 20, 2022 – The Neptune（Seattle）
July 22, 2022 – House of Blues（Anaheim）
July 26, 2022 – Legacy Hall（Dallas）
■Europe
September 22, 2022 – Lido（Berlin）
September 24, 2022 – O2 Academy Islington（London）
September 27, 2022 – Yoyo（Paris）
SCANDAL Official Site: https://www.scandal-4.com/
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SCANDAL’s 10th original album MIRROR was released on January 26, 2022, and ranked #5 on the Oricon Weekly Album Chart. Every album the group has released has ranked in the top five. The music video for the album’s title track, MIRROR, has finally been released!
The song, composed by MAMI on guitar and RINA on drums, is an epic rock anthem and a perfect symbol for the album. The music video was directed by Motherfucko, who previously directed the music video for Ai ni Naranakattanosa.
MIRROR Music Video
MIRROR is on sale now.
Information
MIRROR
Now Available
Standard Edition (CD): ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
Special Edition A (CD+DVD): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Special Edition B (CD+Magazine): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Limited Edition (CD+DVD+GOODS *With Luxury Box): ¥11,000 (Tax Included)
Streaming Links: https://jvcmusic.lnk.to/MIRROR
Official Site: https://www.scandal-4.com/
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All-girl rock band SCANDAL is celebrating 15 successful years in 2021. Their ten-track 10th original album ‘MIRROR’ was released on January 26, 2022, and includes popular singles like eternal and ivory. ‘MIRROR’ includes songs written, composed, and sung by each member, and is already beloved by longtime and new fans alike.
The music video for the love balled Ai ni Naranakattanosa has also been unveiled. Written and composed by guitarist MAMI, it’s a song that realistically describes the sad feelings of a woman in unrequited love. The video was directed by motherfucko, who also directed the videos for Fuzzy and one more time. It also features young actors Miyu Nakamura and So Morozumi telling the story of a woman who realizes that her feelings for her boyfriend aren’t love.
Ai ni Naranakattanosa Music Video
SCANDAL has also announced additional shows for the North American leg of their 2022 World Tour, which is scheduled to start in March. There will be nine shows in total: Toronto, New York, Atlanta, Anaheim, Dallas, Boston, Chicago, Vancouver, and Seattle. The setlist will include songs from the album as well as popular songs from the group’s history.
Information
MIRROR
Release Date: January 26, 2022
Standard Edition (CD): ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
Special Edition A (CD+DVD): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Special Edition B (CD+Magazine): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Limited Edition (CD+DVD+GOODS) *With Luxury Box: ¥11,000 (Tax Included)
SCANDAL Official Site: https://www.scandal-4.com/
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All-girl rock band SCANDAL is celebrating 15 successful years in 2021. Their 10th original album ‘MIRROR’ was released on January 26, 2022, and the track Ai ni Naranakattanosa has become a major topic on social media. The love song is now available on music streaming platforms!
The song was written and composed by guitarist MAMI. A song that realistically describes the sad feelings of a woman in unrequited love, the track was first performed live during the Christmas concert held on December 24, 2021. It immediately received a slew of sympathetic comments on social media, and a teaser trailer for the song’s music video has been unveiled ahead of its January 26 premiere.
Ai ni Naranakattanosa Teaser (YouTube Shorts)
Those listening to the song on Spotify will be able to watch each member of SCANDAL performing on the app’s Canvas screen randomly.
MIRROR is now available to stream on iTunes, Apple Music, and Spotify. Those who preordered the album received an original wallpaper.
Those purchasing SCANDAL’s new album at participating stores will be entered into a drawing to win an autographed poster! A special exhibition will also be held at Tower Records Shibuya, Shibuya TSUTAYA, HMV&BOOKS Shibuya, Joshin Nihonbashi, and Tower Records Kyoto. TV screens at each location will display the lyrics to certain tracks on the album, bringing fans even closer to the meaning behind each song.
Information
Ai ni Naranakattanosa
Streaming Links: https://jvcmusic.lnk.to/MIRROR
*The song is now available to stream on music streaming services and major download sites like iTunes, etc.
10th Album ‘MIRROR’Standard Edition (CD): ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
Special Edition A (CD+DVD): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Special Edition B (CD+Magazine): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Limited Edition (CD+DVD+GOODS *With Luxury Box: ¥11,000 (Tax Included)
Official site: https://www.scandal-4.com/
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All-girl rock band SCANDAL celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2021. On January 26, the group will release their 10th original album ‘MIRROR,’ and ahead of release, a trailer is highlighting each new track.
Complete Song Trailer for ‘MIRROR’
The album will come in four different editions: a standard edition, Special Edition A, Special Edition B, and a Limited Edition. The songs included will be the same for each and will include popular tracks like eternal, ivory, and one more time, as well as seven new tracks for a total of ten songs. ‘MIRROR’ will include songs written and composed by each member, and the new trailer also teases that each girl will provide main vocals for different tracks. Guitarist MAMI sings ivory, bassist TOMOMI sings The Identity of Love, drummer RINA sings She’s a Wave, and vocalist HARUNA is in charge of all other tracks.
The latest installment of SCANDAL’s documentary series has also been posted to the group’s YouTube channel and gives a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the album.
‘“her” Diary 2021 on YouTube #12’ Documentary Series
Those who purchase the CD will be able to watch an online live show on January 30, 2022. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and fans can apply to attend by preordering or purchasing ‘MIRROR” online or at select CD stores nationwide. Check the official website for details.
Information
SCANDAL – 10th Album ‘MIRROR’ Special Preorder Site:
https://www.her-label.com/MIRROR/
SCANDAL Official Site:
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All-girl rock band SCANDAL is celebrating 15 successful years in 2021. Their 10th original album ‘MIRROR’ will be released on January 26, 2022, and the DVD and special goods included with each special edition have been revealed.
Special Edition A will include a DVD featuring unreleased footage from the documentary series ‘“her” Diary 2021 on YouTube.’ Newly-recorded interviews with the band members will also be included.
Special Edition B will come with “her Magazine Vol.3,” which was also included with the single ‘Masterpiece/Blink,’ and the group’s previous album ‘Kiss from the darkness.’ The limited edition will include a DVD with seven music videos as well as an original ‘MIRROR’ long-sleeve T-shirt (Size L).
Concept photos for ‘MIRROR’ have also been released, produced by art director Junya Handa. Solo concept photos of each member were released from December 13 to December 16.
Clear folders will also be included with the special and limited editions, with early preorder bonuses available until December 19 at 18:00.
“her” Diary 2021 on YouTube #11
The newest episode of ‘“her” Diary 2021 on YouTube #11” is now available, and details the production meeting for ‘MIRROR,’ so be sure to give it a watch!
Information
MIRROR
Release Date: January 26, 2022
Standard Edition (CD): ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
Special Edition A (CD+DVD): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Special Edition B (CD+Magazine): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Limited Edition (CD+DVD+GOODS *With Luxury Box: ¥11,000 (Tax Included)
Preorder Site: https://www.her-label.com/MIRROR/
SCANDAL Official Site: https://www.scandal-4.com/
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All-girl rock band SCANDAL is celebrating 15 successful years in 2021. On January 26, 2022, the group will release their 10th original album ‘MIRROR,’ their first album release since ‘Kiss from the darkness’ in February 2020.
The album will contain 10 songs, including the singles eternal, Ivory, and one more time, released this year. It will be available in four different versions, including a Standard Edition with the CD only, a Special Edition with a DVD, a Special Edition with a magazine, and a Limited Edition box set including a DVD and original goods.
Pre-orders for ‘MIRROR’ are open now, with those reserving a copy eligible to receive an original clear folder and other goods depending on the store.
SCANDAL has also announced their world tour, ‘SCANDAL WORLD TOUR 2022 “MIRROR,” starting March 12, 2022, at the Atsugi City Cultural Hall with 11 performances in 10 cities throughout Japan. Starting in July, they will perform at five cities in North America: Toronto, New York, Atlanta, Anaheim, and Dallas. In September, they will play in Berlin, Longdon, and Paris. For ticket information, please visit SCANDAL’s official website.
Information
MIRROR
Release Date: January 26, 2022
Standard Edition (CD): ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
Special Edition A (CD+DVD): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Special Edition B (CD+Magazine): ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Limited Edition (CD+DVD+GOODS *With Luxury Box: ¥11,000 (Tax Included)
*The DVD included in Special Edition A and the Limited Edition are different.
*The album will also be available to stream on January 26, 2022.
10th Album ‘MIRROR’ Preorders: https://www.her-label.com/MIRROR/
Official Site: https://www.scandal-4.com/
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SCANDAL, who celebrated their 15th anniversary in August 2021, have released ‘one more time,’ their third single this year.
The naturally fun song is a hopeful pop song, filled with SCANDAL’s positive mindset. The song was composed by guitarist MAMI while the lyrics were written by drummer RINA. The coupling song is an acoustic version of the title track, performed by the members during a home party,
Like “eternal” and “ivory,” this new single will only be available in limited quantities, with sales closing as soon as the maximum number of copies has been sold. CDs with t-shorts, cassette tapes, 7-inch records, and other goods are also available to purchase. The record has already sold out, so be sure to check out their store as soon as possible!
The song is already available on streaming and download services, while a Twitter and Instagram campaign to win an autographed jacket sticker via lottery is currently ongoing.
In addition, the latest episode of monthly documentary ‘”her Diary 2021 on Youtube’ has been released. The latest episode features footage of the ‘one more time’ studio recording. You can watch the group create their newest song as they share ideas and work alongside former Odoriba Soul member Hashinoto Yuta, who arranged the new song.
“her” Diary 2021 on YouTube #09
‘one more time’ was first performed at the ‘SCALDAB 15th ANNIVERSARY LIVE “INVITATION” at OSAKA-JO HALL’ concert, commemorating the groups 15th anniversary, which will be available to watch on DVD and Blu-ray on November 24. Customers will receive a free original sticker depending on where they order from, and those who pre-order the first-edition DVD will receive a free original mask case. The deadline for the mask case campaign is on October 4, so be sure to order your copy as soon as possible.
The ‘SCANDAL TOUR 2021 – SCANDAL BATTLE OF THE BANDS TOUR’ will be starting in Zepp Tokyo on October 3. They will be performing alongside CHAI in Tokyo, indigo la End in Sendai, Chiaki Sato in Hiroshima, and Vaundy in Fukuoka. You can find details and ticket purchase links on the SCANDAL official website.
Information
one more time
Release: September 29 2021
Types:
CD + T-shirt (L size) / VIZL-1941 / ¥3,960 (Tax Incl.)
CD / VICL-37611 / ¥1,100 (Tax Incl.)
Cassette Tape / NSS-705 / ¥1,760 (Tax Incl.)
7-inch Record / NKS-738 / ¥1,870 (Tax Incl.)
T-shirt (L size) / ¥3,000 (Tax Incl.)
Single ‘one more time’ Official Site: https://www.her-label.com/onemoretime/
Streaming: https://jvcmusic.lnk.to/one_more_time
SCANDAL Official site: https://www.scandal-4.com/
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Tickets for SCANDAL’s 15th anniversary live concert ‘INVITATION,’ which will take place at Osaka-jo Hall on August 21, 2021, have sold out, and so the band has announced that the concert will be streamed live in Japan and 52 countries worldwide.
The concert will be SCANDAL’s first time performing at Osaka-jo Hall since 2014. Online tickets are now on sale – more details at the band’s website.
SCANDAL also posted their performances of Tonight and eternal from their 2021 ‘MANIA’ tour on YouTube. Check out eternal below.
SCANDAL – Tonight 〜 eternal (Live from SCANDAL MANIA TOUR 2021 request 2021.04.18 @Zepp Haneda)
Information
SCANDAL 15th ANNIVERSARY LIVE “INVITATION” at Osaka-jo Hall Livestream
Japan Time & Date
Date: August 21, 2021
Start Time: 18:00 (JST)
Ticket Price: ¥3,000
Buy Tickets Here: https://eplus.jp/st/821/scandal/
Validity Period: August 21, 2021 @ 18:00 – August 22, 2021 @ 23:59
Overseas Date & Time
Date: August 21, 2021
Start Time: 18:00 (JST) / 02:00 (PST)
Ticket Price: $30
Buy Here: https://livefrom.events/collections/scandal
Validity Period: August 21st at 2AM PST – August 23rd at 12AM PST
Stream/Download SCANDAL Here: https://jvcmusic.lnk.to/SCANDAL
SCANDAL Official Website: https://www.scandal-4.com/
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This year marks the 15th anniversary of J-rock band SCANDAL, and their first single to be released during this celebratory milestone is eternal which dropped on Wednesday (March 3). The single welcomes Satori Shiraishi once again as producer for the single, which includes the title track and a remix by TOWATEI.
The single is being released as a limited edition and won’t be restocked. The 7-inch vinyl and cassette tape versions are already sold out, so fans won’t want to miss out on the CD.
SCANDAL – “eternal” Music Video
The music video was directed by Oudai Kojima and features beautiful, close-up shots of the band members with snow falling.
eternal is also available to listen to on all major music streaming and download servies.
Information
SCANDAL – “eternal”
Released: March 3, 2021
Campaign Page: https://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/-/News/A026399.html
