In an era where curated perfection dominates social feeds and personal interactions, Da-iCE cuts through the facade with their striking new single “Nonfictions ノンフィクションズ“, released on 16 May. The track delves into the emotional toll of maintaining appearances—the exhaustion of performing an idealized self while concealing inner struggles. With their signature dual-vocal dynamism and genre-blending sound, the five-member group crafts a sleek yet introspective anthem that resonates deeply in today’s image-obsessed world.
The song pulses with tension, blending pop-rock energy with layered harmonies that mirror the conflict between private truth and public persona. Rather than focusing on dramatic breakdowns, Nonfictions captures the quieter, more insidious moments—when the pressure to seem “fine” leaves you feeling disconnected from yourself and others. The accompanying music video heightens this theme through stylized visuals and sharp choreography, transforming internal dissonance into a compelling visual narrative. It’s a testament to Da-iCE’s growth as artists, merging thought-provoking concepts with their trademark musical precision.
Since their major debut a decade ago, Da-iCE has consistently pushed boundaries, earning accolades like the Japan Record Award for their record-breaking hit “CITRUS” (the first song by a Japanese male dance/vocal group to surpass 100 million streams) and the generational anthem “Star Mine.” Their 2024 single “I wonder” further cemented their legacy, racking up 200 million streams and an Excellence Award at the 66th Japan Record Awards. Now, with Nonfictions, they continue to evolve—confronting universal anxieties with honesty and artistry.
As they reflect on their 10th anniversary, Da-iCE proves they’re not just performers but storytellers for a generation navigating the blurred lines between reality and perception. Nonfictions doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does something more vital: it makes feeling unseen feel seen.
About Da-iCE
Da-iCE is a five-member group renowned for their twin-vocal range (spanning four octaves) and electrifying performances. Comprising vocalists Yudai Ohno and Sota Hanamura, alongside performers Taiki Kudo, Toru Iwaoka, and Hayate Wada, they’ve become one of Japan’s most influential male artist groups.
Their 2020 hit “CITRUS” made history as the first song by a Japanese male dance/vocal group to exceed 100 million streams, winning the 63rd Japan Record Award. “Star Mine” became a cultural touchstone, while 2024’s “I wonder” shattered records with 200 million streams. Their latest album, MUSi-aM, dropped in October, and they marked their debut at the 75th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen. With Nonfictions, Da-iCE continues to challenge expectations, blending introspection with irresistible soundscapes.
Adreena is a writer from Nagano, Japan, but is now residing in Singapore. She mostly writes music news and reviews, but in her spare time, she likes writing fiction and poems.