On March 14, 2025, the musical duo Yuzusao, comprised of Aichi natives Yuzu Hiwa and Saori Otaki, is set to release their much-anticipated first digital mini-album titled Yuzusao Ichimaime.
This release marks a significant milestone for the duo, who have crossed paths as actors and voice actors. The mini-album consists of several catchy tracks, including Coelacanth Love, Gunjo no Mirai, Temptation SS, and Yuzusao Fuwa Fuwa March.
Takuma Kanetani, known for his work on the popular game Idolmaster Shiny Colors and collaborations with 2.5-dimensional actors, lends his songwriting talent to this project. The lyrical work for Coelacanth Love and Yuzusao Fuwa Fuwa March was handled by Takehiro Yoshida, the creative mind behind the stage play Queen Stage, where Hiwa and Otaki first met and began their artistic collaboration.
"The digital mini-album embodies the essence of our friendship and love for our hometown," said Yuzu Hiwa. Her sentiment reflects the deep bond formed between the two during their time performing together.
Saori Otaki echoed her partner's enthusiasm, stating, "It’s exciting to finally share this music with everyone; we hope it brings joy." Their excitement is palpable as they prepare to connect with their hometown audience through their work.
Hiwa, standing at 153 cm tall and born on September 26, and Otaki, who is 155 cm and celebrates her birthday on September 12, have shared their journeys as both friends and colleagues. Each of their respective backgrounds includes experiences as members of idol groups—Hiwa was part of TEAM SHACHI, and Otaki performed with Nagoya CLEAR’S.
They have transitioned from being idols to multifaceted actresses and voice performers, showcasing their versatility on various platforms.
The forthcoming mini-album will be available for streaming, allowing fans to enjoy the collection of songs crafted from their shared experiences and unique musical influences.
To complement the release of their mini-album, the duo will host events to engage with fans. One notable occasion is the premium screening of Yuzusao THE MOVIE ~This Spring, Japan Will Know Love~, which will take place on March 23, 2025, at Shibuya MsmailBOX. The event will feature two screening sessions, with the first one starting at 13:30 and the second at 18:00.
The event promises to be electrifying with stage greetings and live performances from Yuzusao, offering fans the chance to connect with the artists and experience their music and message first-hand.
The rise of Yuzusao is emblematic of the blending of traditional performance with modern entertainment formats, capturing the hearts of fans both locally and beyond. Their stories, artistry, and the joy they bring through their performances are just beginning to resonate as they carve their path forward.
With each step, Yuzusao not only aims to connect through music but also to share their narrative rooted deeply in friendship, creativity, and passion. Their debut album serves as the first chapter of what promises to be an exciting musical adventure.