Ireisu's 7th Full Album: 'After School Archive'
Ireisu, the popular 2.5D idol group signed under VOISING, has released their much-anticipated 7th full album titled 'After School Archive' on July 23, 2025. This album is unique as it marks the first time the group has adopted the theme of 'youth'—a bold choice that reflects the fleeting yet joyful moments of summer and school life.
Concept and Inspiration
Before diving into the album's content, it's essential to understand the driving concept behind it. The group's leader, Naiko, explained that as the album was set to launch in summer, they decided that a refreshing and youthful theme would resonate well with their audience. He mentions how a discussion led them to focus on student life, prompting them to collaborate with prominent lyricist Jin, known for his expertise in crafting songs around the theme of youth, to pen the title track 'Stay High‼'. The anticipation and excitement surrounding this collaboration is palpable, especially as this was a long-desired partnership for Ireisu.
Riuara, one of the members, expressed his emotions upon hearing the song for the first time, describing it as perfectly capturing the essence of student life. The lyrics conjured various vivid images in his mind, highlighting the joy of performing together with their audience.
Collaboration Dynamics
Yusuke, another member, shared insights into the collaborative process behind their music. He takes a thoughtful approach to song allocation, matching each member's unique voice and energy to different parts of the songs. This teamwork not only strengthens their sound but also creates a familial bond among them. For the track 'If', Yusuke humorously noted that he finally made a request regarding his member color and was delighted when his wishes were met.
- - Hotoke, adding to the discussion, pointed out how Jin's songwriting brings a lively and emotional vibe to their tracks, making them perfect for summer live performances.
Audience Engagement Through Summer Hits
When discussing potential hits for their upcoming summer concerts, 'Ire Summer' was highlighted as a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its playful energy and upbeat rhythm. The group worked with Kenichi Maeyamada again, ensuring that this track would allow fans to forget their troubles and simply enjoy the moment—something they heavily prioritize during their shows.
Beyond the title track, the album features a treasure trove of songs, each member sharing their favorites. Yusuke's solo 'NAKEDANSWER' is a reflection of his collaborative spirit, emphasizing the importance of music in connecting people beyond genres. Riuara described being deeply moved by Yusuke's performance, and Naiko expressed excitement about the new challenges posed in their tracks, particularly with 'Absolutely Dangerous!'.
Themes of Strength and Individuality
The dynamics of the group are evident even in their collective efforts to create meaningful and personal music. As Riuara noted, the spirited collaboration has resulted in various songs aimed at empowering and uplifting listeners. Initial thoughts were that they would solely explore the concept of strength, but the evolution toward uniquely individualized expressions is what they ultimately cherish the most.
In a significant moment for the group, they acknowledged how their collective memories solidify their bond, marking each shared experience as a true reflection of their youth. Now, they stand more united than ever as they strive towards their ultimate dream: a solo concert at Tokyo Dome. The passion they hold for their craft is evident in every interview and event they participate in.
Upcoming Summer Tour
As they prepare for their upcoming Summer Tour 2025, titled 'Ebi Baddy - Festival!!', excitement buzzes within the fandom. The tour promises to encapsulate the high-energy, vibrant essence of the group, featuring performances across various cities in Japan.
- - Miyagi: Xebio Arena Sendai - August 2-3
- - Fukuoka: Marine Messe Fukuoka - August 9-10
- - Hyogo: GLION ARENA KOBE - August 16-17
- - Aichi: Aichi Sky Expo - August 23-24
- - Kanagawa: K Arena Yokohama - September 27-28
With ticket sales underway, fans are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness Ireisu's charismatic performances in person, promising an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
'After School Archive' represents a heartfelt journey into the nostalgia of youth, encapsulating memories that resonate with fans. Ireisu proves time and again that their music is more than just entertainment; it's an emotional connection that binds them to their audience. The release and upcoming tour further solidify their status as a leading force in the idol scene, ensuring that their story is just beginning.
Written by Kana Yoshida