Latest news with #EXILETRIBE
Hype Malaysia
26-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Interview: BALLISTIK BOYZ From EXILE TRIBE On Their New EP, Summer Faves & First Asia Tour
Earlier this year, J-pop sensations BALLISTIK BOYZ from EXILE TRIBE marked the start of a new chapter in their career with the release of their first best album. Continuing the momentum, the 7-member group is set to drop their upcoming EP, 'Stardust Forever', and perform their first Asian tour. We recently had the opportunity to chat with the member of BALLISTIK BOYZ – RYUTA, RIKIYA, YOSHIYUKI, MASAHIRO, RIKI, RYUSEI AND MIKU – to hear what they have to say about their new EP, upcoming plans and their new tour. Keep scrolling to read more: Q. It's been a while since Hype Malaysia spoke to BALLISTIK BOYZ. How have you guys been since your last visit to Malaysia? RYUTA: In Japan, we've held a concert at Nippon Budokan and even had our first arena live show. And this year, we'll do our very first Asia tour as well. We've been steadily making our dreams and goals come true! RIKIYA: Even now, our desire to perform live in Malaysia hasn't changed — we're steadily taking steps forward to make it happen! Making that a reality is our current goal, so we want to first make our solo concerts and arena shows a big success, and hopefully build a path toward that in the future! Q. Before we get into the interview, let's do some warm-up questions: since we're in the peak of Summer, can you recommend a song that people can add to their Summer playlist? YOSHIYUKI: Recently, I went to a dome concert featuring music by Joe Hisaishi, who composed for Studio Ghibli. Listening to the music from various Ghibli films brought back childhood memories and filled me with excitement. Among them, 'My Neighbor Totoro' is a film I've watched countless times since I was a kid. The song 'Neko Bus' especially brings back that thrilling feeling of summer as a child! RIKI: I love ocean views — especially sunsets — and the song 'Shave ice', which is included as a B-side on this single, is my top recommendation for the summer! I especially want people to listen to it at the beach. One of the things I'm really looking forward to this summer is listening to 'Shave ice' by the sea myself. Q. What's your favourite Summer activity? Or is there something you've always wanted to do during this season? MIKU: Golf! I love playing golf in the mountains surrounded by nature, especially when the weather is perfect. MASAHIRO: Every year, I enjoy going to the beach — surfing, swimming, and having drinks at beach huts! We also have a BBQ every year, so I hope we can do that again this year. Actually, we're planning a trip with all the members this summer, and I really hope it happens! Q. Let's talk about your recent release, 'Stardust Forever'. The track is heavily influenced by emo, pop punk and skater culture, with lyrics reflecting youthful defiance. What would you say is the message being conveyed through this song? RYUSEI: It's the same for us, but I think everyone has moments where they wonder whether something is possible or impossible while chasing their dreams. But life, while it feels short, is actually long — and I believe that everyone has a chance to make their dreams come true. That's why I think this song is one that can give a push to all those who are working hard toward their goals. Q. The music video also featured a lot of skateboarding scenes and scenes at a skatepark. Do you have any fun or interesting stories from the filming? MASAHIRO: Honestly, having a skater riding right behind me while I was singing was pretty scary. I was worried they might crash into me, lol. I used to skateboard a bit myself, so during breaks in the shoot, I practised tricks with the skaters! Q. The song is written and produced by vividboooy and R.I.K. Was this your first time working with them? What was the experience like? RIKI: We had already been in touch even before this collaboration, and I've always really liked the music they create. So we didn't particularly focus on anything specific during production — we just wanted to add elements and a perspective that BBZ doesn't usually have, and that's the only intention we conveyed when we started the process. Because of that, there weren't many changes needed, and everyone was on the same page, which allowed things to move forward smoothly. Q. 'Stardust Forever' is also part of your upcoming EP of the same title. Can you share more about this album? MIKU: This marks the beginning of our second chapter, and it's a work where you can feel a new side of us through a different musical style than before. RIKIYA: This time, it's packed with a sound that reflects a cooler and more refined musical direction for us. We've also taken our branding to the next level — from our visuals to the music itself, everything has evolved. I think fans will find it refreshing and new! Q. Do you have a favourite track from the album? What song is it and why? RYUSEI: My favourite is 'ALL OF YOU'! The main reason is the coolness of the sound, and although the choreography is already complete, I personally think it's the best one we've ever had! YOSHIYUKI: 'Stardust Forever'. It's a refreshing, band-style song unlike anything we've done before, and the straightforward lyrics are beautiful. I really want people who are chasing their dreams or working hard toward something to listen to this song! Q. After the album's digital release, BALLISTIK BOYZ will embark on the 'IMPACT' ~ASIA~ tour. You've already announced two stops in Asia: Bangkok and Taiwan, and you will announce more stops soon. Can we expect a show in Kuala Lumpur? RYUTA: As a group, we definitely want to perform live in Kuala Lumpur in the future. There are various factors like timing and scheduling, but it's something we absolutely want to make happen. So I hope everyone will look forward to it and wait with excitement! Q. What are you guys planning to showcase during the tour? RYUTA: This tour will feature the new songs from our upcoming EP, so while we want you to experience a new 'colour' of us, we also hope you'll look forward to performances where our singing, rapping, and dancing have all evolved even further! RYUSEI: As I mentioned earlier, this year's theme is 'Impact,' so no matter which tour stop you come to, I believe you'll witness something new and impactful! We're confident that we can deliver entertainment that will truly leave a mark on your heart, so please come and see us! Q. Besides the tour, what can fans expect from BALLISTIK BOYZ for the rest of 2025? YOSHIYUKI: Our Asia tour will kick off at the end of July, and we also have another arena concert scheduled for November! We'll keep doing our best to share this new 'second chapter' of ours with as many people as possible. We're also discussing ways to visit all of you overseas, so it would make us happy if you waited for us! RIKIYA: Besides that, we'll be making our much-anticipated arena live show a reality, and I think this year will be an even more crucial one for us. We're also filming our own variety show and taking on the challenge of performing as a band, so I hope you'll watch us as we give it our all! Q. Do you guys have any solo plans for the future? Or maybe any solo activity that you can share? MASAHIRO: Since last year, I've been getting more acting opportunities and have appeared in various projects! There's also a project currently in production, so I hope you'll look forward to its release! Q. Lastly, can you share a few words for your Malaysian BALLYs? MIKU: Thank you always for your support! We don't get many chances to meet in person, but I'm doing my best so we can come see you as soon as possible — so please wait for us! RIKI: To all our fans in Malaysia — how are you doing?? I'm filled with the desire to return to Malaysia and see you all, even just one day sooner‼ Right now, we're creating new projects and expanding our activities, so please look forward to the day we return — showing you a more evolved version of ourselves!! I hope you like our latest single 'Stardust Forever' too!! We love you all so much!!
Hype Malaysia
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Interview: PSYCHIC FEVER From EXILE TRIBE On Their New Album, Solo Projects & Anniversary Plans
J-pop sensations PSYCHIC FEVER From EXILE TRIBE had an eventful 2024, from kicking off their first Asia Tour, which included a stop at Zepp Kuala Lumpur, to releasing back-to-back hits. While we've just ended the first half of 2025, the seven-membered group have already cleared several things off their wish list, including their first U.S tour. Fresh off the release of their latest single, 'Gelato', we spoke to the members to learn more about the new track and their new album, 'PSYCHIC FILE III', now out digitally on music streaming platform. We also got to hear their touring plans for 2025, what they have up their sleeves for their upcoming anniversary and what the members are working on solo projects – so keep on reading to learn more. 1. The last time Hype Malaysia spoke to PSYCHIC FEVER was after the release of your single, 'Talk To Me Nice'. What have you guys been up to since then? RYOGA: Since 'TALK TO ME NICE feat. TAMP,' we've been busy growing both on and off stage! We just wrapped up our first U.S. tour, which was an incredible experience that really pushed us to connect with fans worldwide. We also signed with Warner Music Group, which opened a lot of new doors for us. WEESA: On the creative side, we've been working hard on new music—like our latest single 'Gelato' and the upcoming EP, PSYCHIC FILE III. It's been a busy but exciting time, and we're looking forward to sharing more of our journey with everyone. 2. You've recently released a new song, 'Gelato', which is a pre-release track from your upcoming album. Can you share more about this new song? KOKORO: 'Gelato' is a song that really captures the feeling of a summer romance—light, refreshing, and a bit bittersweet. Musically, it blends alternative R&B with some electro-disco and synthwave elements to create a cool, breezy vibe. WEESA: Lyrically, it talks about the excitement and urgency of a love that can't wait, kind of like how gelato melts fast in the summer heat. It's a track that shows a new, softer side of PSYCHIC FEVER while still keeping that hip-hop energy we're known for. We're really proud of it and hope listeners feel that summer warmth when they hear it. 3. You've already performed 'Gelato' at the EXPO2025 LDH DAY SPECIAL 'Jr. EXILE LIVE' concert last April. What was the fans' reaction to the song and the performance? REN: After performing, I felt really good about it. Even though the audience wasn't familiar with the song, by the end of it, they were vibing along with the music, which made me really happy. JIMMY: It was our very first time performing both the track and the choreography, but I felt a positive reaction. We had a really short time to learn the choreography, and we all practiced for long hours, so I was a bit nervous. But during the performance, seeing everyone's excited expressions in the crowd made me genuinely happy! 4. Before 'Gelato', you released three singles in early 2025: 'Paradise', 'What's Happenin'' and 'Wonder Woman'. Can you share more about these songs? KOKORO: Compared to our past releases, 'Paradise' is the most luxurious and mature love song we've done so far. The chorus blends both English and Japanese lyrics, creating a unique expression that somehow lingers in your ears. We took on a lot of new challenges with this track, including the music video, so I'd be really happy if you checked it out! WEESA: All three tracks are completely different in genre, so I hope at least one of them resonates with your personal taste. 'What's Happenin'' was produced by JP THE WAVY, just like 'Just Like Dat', and it carries his signature style. 5. 'Gelato' is part of your upcoming EP, 'PSYCHIC FILE III'. Tell us more about this new album. JIMMY: We're really excited about 'PSYCHIC FILE III'! It's a mix of different sounds and stories that show where we're at right now. You'll hear some upbeat tracks like 'Gelato' that are perfect for summer vibes, but also some deeper, more personal songs. RYUSHIN: We wanted the EP to feel like a journey, showing different sides of PSYCHIC FEVER—from fun and playful to honest and emotional. We can't wait for everyone to hear it! 6. Do you guys have a favourite track from the new album? Which song is it and why? TSURUGI: My pick is 'Reflection'! This song focuses heavily on vocal delivery and rhythmic expression. The performance is super cool too, so I really hope you'll check it out! REN: 'Reflection' is my favorite. It's an R&B/Hip-Hop track inspired by the early 2000s. It has a strong sense of momentum and an easy-to-follow rhythm—one of those songs that just makes you want to dance as soon as you hear it. KOKORO: I'd say 'Gelato'. It's a sweet summer love song that melts like gelato, capturing a new kind of PSYCHIC FEVER charm. It's a track that feels like a cool breeze laced with passion on your skin, and I'd be really happy if you could enjoy that feeling too. RYOGA: My favorite is 'PROMISE'. This song was made for all our fans—ForEVER—who always support us. It carries the message: 'We want to always be with you and keep moving forward together,' which is why we named it PROMISE. It's filled with gratitude for the people we've met, and the hope of fulfilling dreams together with everyone we'll meet in the future too. I'd be really happy if this song becomes something special for you as well. JIMMY: For me, it's 'EVOLVE'. I did the hook for this one, and honestly, it was the toughest recording I've ever done. I changed microphones three or four times to find the right one for my voice, and I experimented a lot with vocal techniques—so this song really holds a special place in my heart. RYUSHIN: I also chose 'Reflection'. The track itself is really cool, and the choreography, just like 'Paradise', was created by ReiNA from RHT. She did an amazing job, so I hope people will pay close attention to that as well. WEESA: My pick is 'Reflection', too. I love the vibe of the song, and it's super fun to sing. I can't wait to perform it on stage! 7. You completed your first U.S. tour last February, but you're going back on tour later this year. What do you guys have planned for your Japan tour? TSURUGI: The title of the tour is 'EVOLVE', so we're ready to show you how we've grown and evolved! We'll be performing lots of new songs, as well as existing tracks we've never showcased live before—so please look forward to it! RYOGA: Our Japan tour kicks off this June, with five shows currently scheduled. The theme is EVOLVE—we hope to show you the many ways we've continued to grow and transform. We're also preparing to bring the tour overseas, not just in Japan. We hope to share some exciting news with you soon, so stay tuned! And most of all, we truly can't wait to see all of you again very soon. 8. You're also going on a fanmeet tour in Europe and the U.S. This is also the first time you're touring in Europe. How do you feel about this new achievement? RYUSHIN: I'm truly happy and filled with gratitude. We've had the chance to visit before, but this will be our very first solo event there, so we really hope that everyone who comes will leave wanting to see us again. We'll do our best to deliver something amazing, with everything we've got! JIMMY: I'm super excited about going to new places and being able to perform. There are ForEVERs we haven't met yet, and people who might not know about us at all—so I want to give it my all to show them what we're all about, right in front of their eyes. I'm also really curious to see how people will react! 9. Do you guys also have plans to perform in Asia later this year? How about returning to Malaysia? KOKORO: Since this is EVOLVE 'in JAPAN', we're aiming to take it even further to other countries as well. We'll continue working hard so that we can visit Malaysia too, and I'll do my best to meet all our Malaysian ForEVERs as soon as possible! RYOGA: Absolutely—we definitely want to visit Malaysia again. Whether it ends up being a concert or a fan meeting, we can't say just yet, but we are preparing something that will give us a chance to meet all of you. Please look forward to it! 10. PSYCHIC FEVER will celebrate its anniversary in July. Do you guys have any plans on how to celebrate? REN: I definitely want to do something special. We're planning to have a fan meeting in the UK on July 13, so we'll be able to celebrate not just as a group, but together with all of you. I hope we can create a memorable moment with everyone on that day. JIMMY: We'll be in London on that day, so I'd love to celebrate with not only our local ForEVERs but also fans from all around the world. Lately our schedules have been so packed that we haven't even had time to go out for a meal as a group, so I'd also love for the seven of us to go out and eat together! 11. What are the members' solo plans for 2025? Are you guys working on anything? REN: First, I want to keep improving my individual skills. Rather than being satisfied with where I am now, I plan to continue working hard so I can always show up as the best version of myself when I meet everyone. I also want to make full use of social media to showcase our unique strengths. For me, that means sharing my beatboxing and singing more so that even people who don't yet know us can discover what I bring to the group. I'm always mindful of that as I continue putting myself out there. KOKORO: I'm excited to announce the release of my first photobook, 'Kokoro no Oto'. It's packed with elements that really reflect who I am, so I'd be really happy if you checked it out! 12. Can you share a few words for your fans in Malaysia? TSURUGI: Thank you always for listening to our music! I really can't wait to see you all. I promise we'll come to see you, and when we do, let's spend an amazing time together! REN: I truly hope we can perform in Malaysia someday, and when that time comes, I'd love for you to come and see us! We're working hard every day so we can bring our music and entertainment to everyone in Malaysia. Please continue to follow PSYCHIC FEVER and support our journey! KOKORO: Thank you so much for your warm support, always. It feels like time has flown by since our memories from the ASIA TOUR HEAT. With the release of 'PSYCHIC FILE III', we'll keep pushing forward so we can meet you all again soon. Please continue to look forward to our activities! RYUSHIN: Thank you always for your support. We were lucky enough to visit Malaysia last year during our Asia tour, and I really hope we can come back soon and perform again. I'd be so happy if everyone in Malaysia could look forward to that day with us! RYOGA: To all our ForEVERs—thank you so much for your endless support. We're doing our best as a group so we can bring you exciting news in the near future. Let's meet again very soon. I love you all. JIMMY: I'm really looking forward to meeting you all soon! It's been a while since we've been able to visit Malaysia, so we'll be doing our best to make a live or event happen there. Please keep supporting us—it truly means the world! WEESA: We haven't been able to go to Malaysia recently, so I really hope we can visit again soon. Until then, I'd love for you to keep enjoying our music! What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
