On January 10, 2025, Ikuta Lilas debuted her new song, "百花繚乱" (Hyakkaryoran), which serves as the opening theme for the second season of the popular anime "薬屋のひとりごと" (The Apothecary Diaries). This release perfectly coincides with the launch of the much-anticipated continuation of the series, delighting fans who have eagerly awaited the show's return.
"百花繚乱" encapsulates the essence of the anime, portraying its rich narrative and whimsical elements through pop-infused melodies. The song draws inspiration from the story's protagonist, 猫猫 (Maomao), who is renowned for her charm and whimsical nature as she navigates through the intricacies of the imperial court and solves various mysteries. The vibrant sound reflects not only the allure of the court but also the thrilling adventures encountered by the characters.
Ikuta Lilas, already well-known as the vocalist of the prestigious music unit YOASOBI, has poured her passion for the series and its characters directly onto the canvas of this track. Speaking on her creative process, she remarked, "I wrote the lyrics with the whimsical and charming aspects of the main character, Maomao, and the lavish world of the court, aiming to express the mysteries through the song's sound and melody." This insight emphasizes her dedication to creating music that's rich in story and feeling.
The significance of releasing "百花繚乱" alongside the anime's premiere cannot be overstated. The first season of "The Apothecary Diaries" saw remarkable success, selling over 38 million copies, and establishing itself as one of the standout series for its intriguing plot and engaging characters. It even managed to capture the TVer Award 2023's Special Prize, demonstrating its popularity among audiences of all ages.
Fans will witness the culmination of Ikuta's hard work when the opening theme is aired for the first time on television. Managed by Japanese television networks, the series returns with its captivating story and character dynamics showcased through stunning animation and powerful soundtracks.
Continuing from the first season, where Maomao's adventures began to captivate viewers, the second season promises to deepen the mysteries and broaden the storytelling of the court life, as well as reveal more secrets about its inhabitants. Ikuta expressed her excitement about this new season, stating, "I felt honored to be able to take charge of the opening theme for the second season, capturing the excitement and love for the characters and story. The anticipation for the plot and character development is palpable as fans prepare for what lies ahead."
Fans can access the song across various streaming platforms immediately. The creative design for the digital single's cover features artwork from renowned artist 蜷川実花, known for her impactful visual storytelling, which complements the music perfectly.
Viewers are encouraged to catch the first episode of the second season, airing every Friday at 11 PM on the Nippon TV channel, launching with Ikuta's evocative theme song playing the backdrop. The excitement continues to build around both the anime and its accompanying music, as "百花繚乱" echoes the thrilling adventures and charming mischief awaiting Maomao and her allies.