Cover Feature: 'The Power of Music Connecting the World' / AERA Released June 8

The AERA June 15 enlarged issue, released on June 8, features the dance and vocal group MAZZEL on the cover for the first time. The eight-member group has been steadily gaining fans since their debut three years ago and is on a roll, with their first arena tour selling out immediately. The long interview, in which they discuss their beliefs, the bonds between members, and the future of the group, is a must-read. Don't miss the photos by Mika Ninagawa, AERA's cover photographer, which highlight each member's unique personality.

The feature story is 'The Power of Music Connecting the World.' With the spread of streaming services, we report on the current situation where Japanese music is creating excitement across borders. Also check out the special project where celebrities reveal 'The Three Songs of My Life.' Other highlights include a feature exploring why Vermeer's masterpiece 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' attracts people, a long interview with former professional soccer player Masayuki Okano, and the popular serial 'The Miracle Trajectory' by THE ALFEE. Please enjoy this content-packed issue.

Cover, Gravure & Interview: MAZZEL MAZZEL, the group formed by BMSG led by SKY-HI as a successor to BE:FIRST, makes its appearance on the cover and in the gravure! Three years after their debut, their 2nd album 'Banquet' recorded the highest sales in the group's history, and their first arena tour sold out all performances, accelerating their momentum. In the interview, they shared their cherished beliefs. Their words are full of respect for each other. Pay attention to the sparkling individualities of the eight members in the new photos by Mika Ninagawa!

Feature: The Power of Music Connecting the World Japanese music is creating excitement around the world across borders. Departing from past business models, J-POP has made a leap forward. Past masterpieces, such as the rediscovery of city pop, have also gained popularity overseas, and it is pointed out that the strength of Japanese music culture lies in the 'diversity and accumulation' of genres. On the other hand, music is also something that deeply enters an individual's inner self. We also have a project where 13 people, including model and Japan Fashion Culture Promotion Foundation councilor Asami Kobayashi, former chairman of Yoshimoto Kogyo Holdings Hiroshi Osaki, and singer and talent Mitz Mangrove, were asked about 'The Three Songs of My Life.' We are also conducting a reader survey for 'The Three Songs of Your Life' via the QR code in the magazine.

Why Are We Attracted to Vermeer? Johannes Vermeer's masterpiece, 'Girl with a Pearl Earring,' will come to Japan this summer. It is said that this is likely the last time it will be exhibited in Japan, and we explore the mystery and charm of why this highly anticipated work has attracted people across eras. The article explores the depth of the work, including the controversy over who the model was and whether or not a camera obscura was used, incorporating the views of experts. We have also included a complete map of Vermeer's 37 works and suggest how to enjoy 'pilgrimages to holy sites.' This is a permanent archive edition feature! You can apply for the 'Vermeer Exhibition Parent-Child Appreciation Session' (paid) with a special lecture via the QR code in the magazine.

Interview with a New Adult: Masayuki Okano Former professional soccer player Masayuki Okano, who led Japan to its first World Cup appearance with the 'Joy of Johor Bahru' in 1997. Currently, he wears two hats as the business headquarters manager of Nankatsu SC and a brand ambassador for Urawa Red Diamonds, running behind the scenes of the soccer world. We followed the trajectory of Okano's career, full of passion and action, as he looks back on the days when he struggled with sponsor sales from a state of not even being able to use a computer, and gradually won trust. He also reveals valuable episodes from Johor Bahru.

THE ALFEE Serial 'The Miracle Trajectory' In this serial that unravels the history of THE ALFEE, we deliver the first part of 1984. This year, they released 'Hoshizora no Distance.' It became a bigger hit than 'Mary Ann.' The three were very busy with live performances and television... Please enjoy the valuable episodes and ALFEE talk of that time!