'LOVE PARADOX, LOVE MYSELF' by HOKUTO

Japanese vocalist HOKUTO, best known as the lead singer of THE RAMPAGE from EXILE TRIBE, steps into the spotlight with his debut solo EP, LOVE PARADOX, LOVE MYSELF—an EP that features various collaborators and writers.

The EP opens with the lead single “オパッキャマラド！”, a playful track that pairs upbeat production with a music video that draws inspiration from French cinema. It’s a bold introduction for new listeners and marks a shift away from the heavy electronic production featured in RAMPAGE's discography.

“MINE” follows with a shift in tone, weaving in hip-hop influences through Noah Cooper’s rhythmic, rap-inflected lyricism. The track’s production—courtesy of GAL D blends more electro-pop influences which complement Hokuto’s softer vocal timbre.

Midway through the EP, “TIGER BOY” (which is a standout track from the EP) injects a dose of funk and flair. With groovy basslines and guitar riffs arranged by 100kai Outo, the track channels a more live band energy that brings out Hokuto’s versatility as a performer.

The mood softens towards the end of the EP with “Smile for me,” a ballad that carries the charm of a J-drama theme song. Closing 'LOVE PARADOX, LOVE MYSELF' is “We’ll be okay,” a song that blends Japanese and English lyrics with ease, making it a track that will appeal to HOKUTO's international fans and listeners.

I love the variety of sounds and textures in this EP and HOKUTO has picked some really intriguing collaborators who perfectly complement his distinctive style and flair. Check out 'LOVE PARADOX, LOVE MYSELF' in the link above or hear the EP in full on my Spotify Reviews Playlist (link in bio).