Number_i are back with a new song.
On December 2, the Japanese boy band — composed of Sho Hirano, Yuta Jinguji, and Yuta Kishi — surprised their followers from all over by announcing the release of the deluxe edition of their album No.I. Initially released last September 23, the album marked the trio’s first full-length effort and went on to top Billboard Japan‘s JP Albums Chart.
Serving as “a gesture of gratitude to their fans,” this special version of the album contains all of the original 13 tracks alongside an all-new song, entitled “HIRAKEGOMA.” According to a press statement, the song, whose title translates to “open the door,” takes inspiration from the tales of One Thousand and One Nights — a collection of Middle Eastern folk stories. Specifically, it takes inspiration from the story of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves where, in Japanese, saying “hirakegoma” unlocks a secret cave filled with treasures, with the phrase described as notably having become “a beloved part of Japanese culture.”
“Hirakegoma” is said to be part of everyday conversation in Japan, used as a “playful expression for magical or lucky outcomes” that conveys the idea that “certain words hold the power to create wonderful possibilities,” similar to the likes of “abracadabra” or “open sesame.” The new track from the boy band reflects this idea, mirroring a theme of “unlocking potential,” and serving to highlight “the group’s close bond with their fans,” the iLYs.
Formed in late 2023, Number_i debuted earlier this year on January 1 with the single “GOAT,” followed by their debut EP of the same name. Despite only debuting earlier this year, the three members of the group are actually seasoned artists and performers already, having served as members of popular J-pop idol group King & Prince prior to their formation.
Since emerging onto the scene, the trio continues to gain increasing global recognition, even performing at Coachella just four months into their debut. They did so as part of 88rising’s Futures special stage, where they even performed “GOAT” with GOT7’s Jackson Wang. Currently, the trio are on their fully sold-out tour across Japan, dubbed ‘Number_i LIVE TOUR 2024 No.I.’
Listen to the deluxe version of Number_i’s No.I featuring “HIRAKEGOMA” below: