Central Fest 2025: A Night of J-POP, Hip-Hop & Anime

By Lara Kramer • 26 Feb 2025 in Events

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Attention all J-POP fans in Malaysia!

Get ready to experience the electrifying fusion of Japanese music and culture as the CENTRAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL 2025 makes its highly anticipated debut in Kuala Lumpur.

On 26 April 2025, the renowned Zepp Kuala Lumpur will be transformed into a pulsating hub of sound and energy, featuring a stellar lineup of top-tier Japanese artists: ATARASHII GAKKO!, Creepy Nuts, and Tatsuya Kitani. This one-night-only spectacle guarantees an unforgettable celebration of J-music at its finest.

From Japan To The World

Originating in Yokohama, Japan, the CENTRAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL is a trailblazing urban music festival that turns cities into vibrant cultural hotspots. The flagship event in Yokohama spans four iconic venues—K-Arena Yokohama, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, KT Zepp Yokohama, and Rinko Park—creating an immersive experience that showcases Japan’s rich and diverse music scene.

In 2025, the festival expands beyond Japan, bringing its unparalleled energy to international audiences. Following its main event in Yokohama from 4-6 April, CENTRAL embarks on a global journey, stopping in Taipei on 19 April before culminating in Kuala Lumpur on 26 April. This expansion reflects CENTRAL’s mission to share the Sounds of Japan with the world, giving music lovers an extraordinary and authentic cultural experience.

A Lineup Of Japanese Music Icons

The Kuala Lumpur edition of CENTRAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL 2025 boasts a lineup of some of Japan’s most innovative and celebrated artists, ensuring an unforgettable night of music and entertainment.

Headlining the festival is the trailblazing quartet ATARASHII GAKKO!, Japan’s self-proclaimed “youth representatives.” With their high-energy performances, original choreography, and genre-defying sound, they have taken the global stage by storm. Their viral hit ‘Otona Blue’ propelled them to international fame, culminating in a sensational performance at Coachella 2024.

Known for their audacious style and unpredictable stage presence, ATARASHII GAKKO! is set to bring their signature chaos and charisma to Kuala Lumpur for a performance unlike any other.

Creepy Nuts – Japan’s Hip-Hop Power Duo

Also taking the stage is Creepy Nuts, the powerhouse hip-hop duo consisting of rapper R-Shitei and turntable maestro DJ Matsunaga. With their chart-topping hit ‘Bling-Bang-Bang-Born’ amassing over 700 million streams, they have solidified themselves as one of Japan’s most dynamic and innovative hip-hop acts.

Their explosive blend of rap and turntable-ism guarantees an electrifying performance that will keep the Malaysian crowd on its feet.

Tatsuya Kitani – The Voice Behind Anime’s Biggest Hits

Rounding out the lineup is the multi-talented Tatsuya Kitani, an artist who first gained prominence through online platforms before cementing his status as a leading figure in Japan’s music and anime scenes.

Best known for his emotionally charged anime theme songs, including ‘Where Our Blue Is’ from Jujutsu Kaisen, Kitani’s soulful voice and evocative lyrics have earned him a dedicated international following. Fans can expect a mesmerising performance that blends heartfelt storytelling with his distinctive sound.