If you think breaking into the music scene means glitz, glam, and big city lights, think again. Sapporo-based band First Love is Never Returned (FLiNR) is proving that you don’t need to follow the usual path to make an impact. With their new mini album POP OUT! III, they’re stepping into a fresh chapter—bold, honest, and full of heart.
Led by vocalist, keyboardist, and guitarist Kazuki Ishida, who spent some years studying music in New York, FLiNR has been quietly building a loyal following far from Japan’s bustling capital. Since restarting activities at the end of 2022, they’ve made waves with performances at big festivals like RISING SUN ROCK FESTIVAL and VIVA LA ROCK, a sold-out headlining tour, and a spot on Spotify’s “Early Noise” playlist. All this, while juggling day jobs and life in Sapporo.
POP OUT! III is their third mini album, featuring seven tracks that mix emotional honesty with fresh new sounds. For the first time, other band members join the songwriting party—guitarist/keyboardist Keita Kotakemori and guitarist Arata Yamamoto each contribute to the album, adding layers to the band’s unique style.
The lead track, “Our March 僕らの行進曲,” is an anthem for anyone who’s felt overlooked or underestimated. It blends uplifting pop with surprising jazz and musical theatre hints, all wrapped around raw emotions of persistence and hope. Strings performed by BIGMAMA’s Mao Higashide deepen the song’s emotional punch, while the music video, directed by Hokkaido native Shinya Sato, brings the story of defiance and resilience to life.
But there’s more: with this album, FLiNR launches HEiLO RECORDS, their own label in partnership with major company avex. The name HEiLO comes from the Japanese words for “scarlet” and “scarlet pimpernel,” symbolizing deep emotions and a strong sense of family—perfect for a band that’s built their journey with hard work and close bonds.
This album isn’t just music—it’s a statement. FLiNR’s POP OUT! III shows their growth, stubborn optimism, and refusal to fade into the background. As they prepare for their upcoming summer tour, the band shares a message that anyone chasing a dream can relate to:
“We hope this music finds you. If even one person feels less alone hearing our songs, that’s enough. Until then, we’ll keep walking—step by step, chord by chord.”
From the heart of Sapporo and their home stage at VyPass., First Love is Never Returned invites you to join their journey forward.
Listen to POP OUT! III here: https://lnk.to/POPOUTIII-FLiNR
Follow them on Instagram: @1stlove_is
TikTok: @flinr_band
YouTube: FLiNR Channel
Spotify: FLiNR
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