On March 5, 2025, Erika Ikuta's much-anticipated second EP titled bitter candy hit the shelves, marking another milestone in her musical career after parting ways with the idol group Nogizaka46. Paired with the EP's release, fans were treated to the premiere of the music video for her song "Mushisuru" at 21:00 the same day.
This latest collection includes eight original tracks, showcasing Ikuta’s burgeoning talents as both a lyricist and composer. Among these songs are "Umidashite" and "Mushisuru," both of which reflect her personal artistry and depth of emotion. The EP also features collaborations with established musicians, including Kenta Kataoka from the band sumika, who contributed to the upbeat track "Ensemble Sangria," and the talented meiyo, who wrote the catchy song "Clap & Clap!" Each track is complemented with instrumental versions, bringing the total song count to 16 on the EP.
"Mushisuru" has been described as "a refreshing track to shake off the loneliness and frustration caused by misunderstandings with partners," highlighting its relatable themes. The song balances the delicate feelings of heartache with Ikuta's warm, inviting vocal style, successfully transforming what could be heavy listening material about sadness and separation, to something uplifting.
The music video for "Mushisuru" presents a narrative where Ikuta portrays a character grappling with the aftermath of a breakup. While the lyrics encapsulate sorrow, the video evolves to show her character dismissing these dark feelings, culminating in an overall message of positivity and resilience. "The music video of 'Mushisuru' portrays the character's breakup and inner turmoil but transitions to joy and positivity," offers one perspective on what viewers can expect.
This dazzling new collection not only reinforces Ikuta's place as a solo artist but also highlights the versatility she has developed since she graduated from the idol scene. Her debut as a solo artist began earnestly with live performances starting back in 2022, and her efforts have resulted in packed shows across the country. Following the release of her first EP capriccioso on April 10, 2024, Ikuta achieved significant recognition, including sold-out performances during her nationwide tour, "Erika Ikuta Autumn Live Tour 2023." All performances across five locations were met with overwhelming enthusiasm from fans, culminating with her final show at the Tokyo International Forum Hall A, which was described as electric.
Ikuta, whose passion for music is noticeable, has evolved from her idol days to become a well-rounded artist committed to her craft. Her talent was recently showcased when she voiced the lead character Asha in Disney's centennial film Wish as Japan's contextual voiceover artist, bridging her work between animation and live performance.
With bitter candy, Ikuta invites listeners to enjoy her newest explorations of sound and narrative, offering fresh takes on her experiences and emotions. This EP not only reflects growth but also acts as a window through which fans can see Ikuta's artistic evolution. It is a celebration of her identity, her stories, and the melodies she crafts with care.
For those eager to experience Ikuta’s full artistic expression, bitter candy is available for purchase through various platforms and will surely resonate with both fans new and old. The excitement surrounding the EP reflects Ikuta's ability to merge her past with her present, making this release particularly meaningful.
Erika Ikuta continues to challenge herself and grow within the music industry, all the more exciting as she forges her path beyond her idol roots. With supportive fans and her unwavering dedication to her craft, the future looks bright for this blossoming artist.