The evolutionary J-pop group f5ve has already dropped two infectious hits in 2024, including the magnetic single “Lettuce,” and the new pulse-pounding track “Underground,” utilizing a fusion of innovative sounds and captivating lyrics from industry heavy-hitter BloodPop — which organically results in a barrage of relentless EDM beats and eccentric hyper-pop detailing.

Through “Underground,” f5ve meticulously continues their pattern of pushing boundaries in the J-pop scene through experimental interests, evoking the group's originality while setting listeners up for a sonic spectacle that can’t be missed. In fact, the song even clocks in at 177 BPM, so it’s a little hard to ignore. Furthermore, with each member contributing their individualistic strengths and a strong sense of group chemistry, f5ve has impressively established a solid foundation for future releases while positioning the group to become a recognizable force in the upcoming era of pop music.

With Underground” out now, (and several other bangers to come), we’re chatting with the talented members of f5ve to gain insight into the group’s unique brand of artistry.

You’ve shifted gears since we last saw you under the title SG5 — and while different, both versions of the group have been extremely impressive! What are some of the core characteristics that define f5ve?

KAEDE: We, f5ve, are "inter-dimensional dream agents,” and, “the women of every girl’s dream.” Being unconventional, we enjoy different visuals and expressions in each piece of our music. We aim to turn the negative energy that everyone has into positive energy through our music and performances by infiltrating your minds with music!

Can you share the inspiration behind your new single "Underground,” and what you hoped to convey with this track?

RUI: This song is inspired by Japanese culture — Harajuku, Shibuya fashion, music, etc., fused with a strong, addictive four-on-the-floor beat. It also has catchy lyrics with onomatopoeic words like, “chika-chika”, “kachi- kachi” that gives the Japanese essence. It talks about how negative a strict working culture can be, and the message is to find a new way of life and become who you want to be.

"Underground" is appropriately described as a high-energy dance track with influences from Japanese subcultures. How did these elements come together in the production process?

MIYUU: I think especially the pre-chorus, the onomatopoeia used in manga and anime are expressed in a catchy way which gives a symbolic essence of Japanese subculture. I feel like it represents Japan from an overseas perspective. Underground idols [地下 in Japanese] often perform to extremely fast dance songs, we wanted to capture that energy in a song that could be played in a club or on TV.

You’ve been collaborating with several iconic producers like Bloodpop and Count Baldor — how have they helped in developing f5ve’s new sound?

RURI: We are always inspired while writing new songs together with the team because every song is so fresh and different for us from what we are familiar of. As our executive producer, Bloodpop has encouraged us to try many different genres and is constantly encouraging us to do our best. He listens to our dreams and helps to translate them into our music. The team is really amazing!

The music video for "Underground" showcases several of those various aforementioned Japanese subcultures. How did some of those notions like raves, street racing, and dekotora trucks add to the visual representation of the song?

SAYAKA: The trains during the rush hour are so familiar in Japanese culture, we coordinated our outfits to resemble the office workers, to create a scene people can relate to. In the rave scene, we danced the Para- Para, a Japanese subcultural dance which was a trend back in the 80’s, with many extras. The scenes with decorated trucks and the street racing cars gave simply amazing visuals that made glamorous scenes. I think each of the scenes gave life to express the Japanese culture with an impact.

With a BPM of 177, "Underground" is definitely a fast-paced track. Did that lead to any difficulties or unexpected challenges? Or was this a pretty seamless production?

RURI: During recording, we had a hard time keeping up with the rhythm since the tempo is so fast. We tried to sing the chorus in a bouncy way and tried not to destroy the worldview of the song while recording! The sound is very catchy, once you hear it, it will keep playing in your head — it's addictive!

The lyrics of "Underground" also mention a desire to escape from a mundane life to a more vibrant underground scene. Is this theme reflective of personal experiences or a broader social commentary?

KAEDE: This is a message for everyone living in a stressful society. Especially in Japan, we see a lot of sad news about people pushing themselves, worrying, and sometimes making extreme choices. I don't think this kind of thing happens only in Japan, but I think singing in Japanese was one of the necessary elements to convey the message of this song. We wish people who are struggling with something every day, listens to this song and can be who they are, who they want to be. We would be happy if they stop trying too hard, stop wearing out their hearts, and live their lives.

How do you feel "Underground" captures the essence of f5ve's musical style and evolution as a group?

RUI: I think we can deliver cool, unique, new J-pop to people all over the world. As a group, we strive to be authentically ourselves, we are very interested in pushing boundaries and representing Japan in a futuristic and exciting way. F5ve music will be very diverse and always forward-thinking. I hope you can experience Japanese culture by listening to "Underground."

What do you hope listeners take away from "Underground," in terms of the music and the visual storytelling in the music video?

MIYUU: The lyrics mention "underground" but it can be any place, moment, or a thing that makes you forget reality for a while and to be yourself. For me, my "Underground" is when I'm performing in front of hi-5! No matter how tough things get, finding your "underground" can help you keep moving forward, and enjoy every day! I would love you all to listen to this song and watch the music video to find your own "Underground"

Looking ahead, can you offer any hints or insights into what fans can expect from f5ve in terms of future releases or projects?

SAYAKA: We are currently working on our next songs, and hopefully we will be able to deliver a different dimension of f5ve to everyone very soon! Personally, this is my favorite song but we have so many different ones recorded! We hope the various sides of f5ve we express through our songs and themes can relate to each one of you to enjoy! Don’t forget to keep an eye out for us!