From riding convertibles through Okinawa to channelling flavours into personality profiles, PSYCHIC FEVER from EXILE TRIBE are serving a fresh new chapter with ‘Gelato’—a breezy, synth-soaked anthem that signals a stylistic shift for the rising J-pop group.
Following their first U.S. tour and a major label signing with Warner Music Group, the seven-member collective from LDH JAPAN are embracing global ambitions with a more mature, genre-blending sound. We caught up with them to talk about the making of ‘Gelato’, their upcoming EP PSYCHIC FILE III, and what flavour each member brings to the mix.
What was the inspiration behind ‘Gelato’?
RYOGA: Actually, this song has been with us for a while. We had the theme of “the beginning of summer” in mind. It’s that feeling when seasons shift—a mix of excitement, brightness, and just a little wistfulness. We wanted it to be cool and refreshing, just like gelato.
The track leans into alternative R&B with a disco sheen. How did you shape that sound in the studio?
KOKORO: I focused on the flow of the rhythm and how smooth it feels. I sang with a soft tone—like giving a kiss—so you can really hear the tenderness in my voice.
WEESA: I paid close attention to the chorus. It needed to feel summery and fresh, but I also added a sexy edge to the delivery. That contrast was really fun to explore.
Tell us about the music video. Why did you choose Okinawa?
RYOGA: We filmed in Okinawa because the vibe matched the song perfectly. One moment that stood out was riding in a convertible with RYUSHIN late at night through American Village. The night breeze, the lights—it just clicked with the energy of the song.
REN: My parts were shot at a villa. There were lots of close-ups and lip-sync scenes, so I focused on showing emotion through my expressions to match the lyrics.
What does ‘Gelato’ say about where PSYCHIC FEVER are now?
JIMMY: It shows a new, more romantic side of us. We’re still rooted in hip-hop and high energy, but this track explores a smoother sound and more vulnerable lyrics—something we’ve been wanting to try.
KOKORO: After our U.S. tour and signing with Warner Music Group, Gelato feels like a step forward. It reflects our growth and our global mindset. It’s stylish, emotional, and still very much us.
If each member were a gelato flavour, who’s what?
TSURUGI: RYOGA is pistachio. He’s classic and dependable—just like a top-tier flavor.
REN: JIMMY is lemon. It complements everything and brings out new dimensions—just like his rap and production work.
KOKORO: RYUSHIN gives off tropical peach vibes. Sweet at first glance, but when you really know him, he’s hilarious. That contrast fits perfectly.
JIMMY: KOKORO would be pineapple. His voice is sweet with a bit of tang, and his whole aura is yellow and bright.
RYUSHIN: WEESA is matcha. His voice is a blend of sweetness and subtle bitterness, like matcha’s balance.
RYOGA: REN is strawberry—sweet with a bit of tartness. He’s full of charm and layers, just like the flavour.
WEESA: TSURUGI would be salted vanilla. He’s got that classic LDH style, but with his own unique twist.
What can fans expect from your upcoming EP, PSYCHIC FILE III?
TSURUGI: We want fans to feel our determination to keep evolving. This EP carries that message—we’re ready to accelerate and take on the world.
JIMMY: The PSYCHIC FILE series is about experimenting with new sounds and ideas. This time, there’s a more mature vibe. It’s a sign of our growth as artists.
Was there a track on the EP that pushed you out of your comfort zone?
TSURUGI: Definitely ‘EVOLVE’. The message and production really represent how we’re leveling up.
JIMMY: Honestly, the whole EP. It’s packed with new sounds that challenged us creatively. I think fans will hear the difference.
Signing with Warner Music Group is huge. What does this new chapter mean for you?
WEESA: It’s a dream come true. We’ve worked so hard, and this opens up new chances to connect with fans around the world.
RYOGA: I’m excited for what’s next—especially the possibility of collaborating with international artists and reaching more listeners globally. I hope our music can truly go worldwide from here.
You’ve been growing your fanbase across Asia. How has that influenced your music journey?
RYUSHIN: Every show overseas is special. Even if we don’t speak the same language, we connect through music and performance. That energy is irreplaceable.
TSURUGI: Performing overseas has really broadened my perspective. It’s made me want to create music without genre limits—something that anyone can vibe with, anywhere.
Last one—what’s your dream collaboration?
TSURUGI: A rock band! I’d love to bring that kind of energy to our performances.
RYOGA: David Guetta or Skrillex. I’d love for us to sing on one of their tracks.
REN: Keshi. I’m a big fan of his melodies and vocals. I’d love to explore that kind of emotional vibe.
KOKORO: Bruno Mars. I don’t even know what we’d make—but that mystery makes it exciting.
JIMMY: Artists from all over the world. I want to create genreless, multilingual tracks with real chemistry.
RYUSHIN: MILLI. We’ve never collaborated with a female artist before, and I think that fresh energy would be amazing.
WEESA: A movie soundtrack. So many songs I love came from films. It’d be a dream to have one of ours in a movie.
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