No.Ⅰ (Romanized)

Number_i’s debut studio album, No.Ⅰ, released on September 23, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the trio’s musical journey. As the group’s first full-length studio effort, the album showcases their creative evolution, merging their individual artistic influences with a unified group identity. With 14 tracks that span a wide range of sounds and styles, No.Ⅰ is both a statement of artistic intent and a reflection of their journey since branching out from their former group, King & Prince.

The album opens with INZM, a track that had previously been released as a digital single in August 2024. Its infectious beats and bold energy set the tone for the rest of the album, blending pop, electronic, and rock elements to create a distinct sound that defines Number_i’s musical identity. Tracks like Something HEAVEN and Streetlights continue this momentum, incorporating smooth melodies and reflective lyrics that highlight the group’s vocal range and depth.

The album also delves into more introspective themes, particularly with tracks like I Want to Be Transparent (Toumei Ni Naritai) and Recipe. These songs offer a more emotional side of the group, showcasing their vulnerability and desire for authenticity in their music. Each member contributes to the album’s production and songwriting, with Hirano Sho, Jinguji Yuta, and Kishi Yuta playing an integral role in crafting the album’s narrative.

Their creativity is further reflected in collaborations with a diverse array of producers and songwriters, including Jintae Ko, KENTZ, MONJOE, Pecori, and Vaundy, among others. This rich collaboration results in a dynamic sound that balances pop accessibility with a more experimental edge. The album’s standout track GOAT, which served as their debut single, remains one of the most powerful statements on the album. Its high-energy beat, paired with strong vocals and a catchy hook, positions it as a fan favorite and a definitive anthem of the group’s early career.

In addition to its dynamic sound, No.Ⅰ boasts a polished production style, thanks to the involvement of renowned engineers like Kunihiro Imazeki and Norikatsu Teruuchi. Their work ensures that each track feels meticulously crafted, allowing the group’s vocal performances to shine. The mix of live instrumentation, including contributions from musicians like BOBO on drums and Duran on guitar, further enhances the album’s rich texture.

The closing track, INZM (Hyper Band ver.), offers a reimagined version of the single, with a more intense and expansive arrangement that brings the album to a powerful conclusion. It ties together the various musical threads woven throughout the album, serving as a final testament to Number_i’s versatility as a group.

From energetic dance tracks to introspective ballads, No.Ⅰ is a versatile and engaging album that firmly establishes Number_i’s place in the J-pop landscape. With its sleek production, thoughtful lyrics, and bold experimentation, the album encapsulates the spirit of a group determined to make their mark as independent artists. No.Ⅰ not only highlights their individual growth but also showcases their collective ambition to push the boundaries of their artistry. Check out No.Ⅰ album in in Roman.