JO1 launches first full English EP and U.S. debut project

JO1 released ANIMAL on Oct. 2, its first full English-language EP and official U.S. debut project, as the Japanese group expands into North America with a five-date tour. The six-track release was produced entirely by Grammy winner Dem Jointz and includes a title track the members have already previewed on major festival stages.

Why it matters: - JO1 is using ANIMAL to push deeper into the U.S. and wider global market with its first full English release. - The EP gives the 9-member Japanese group a clearer international entry point while sharpening its creative identity. - The release lands as JO1 begins a five-city North American tour, turning the project into both a music launch and a live-market test.

What happened: - JO1 released ANIMAL on Oct. 2 as the group’s first full English-language EP and official U.S. debut project. - The six-track project was produced entirely by Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Dem Jointz. - The title track, “ANIMAL,” is a high-energy dance song built around breaking free from hidden limits. - JO1 member Takumi Kawanishi took part in composing the title track. - The official music video for “ANIMAL” shows the group leaving a cage-like setting and stepping into a wider world. - JO1 launched a five-date North American tour the same day, starting at Toronto’s Danforth Music Hall.

The details: - ANIMAL is positioned around freedom, individuality and moving beyond expectations. - The EP is intended to show a more instinctive and uninhibited side of JO1. - The project also reflects increased creative involvement from the members. - “ANIMAL” pairs a propulsive beat with an expansive performance style. - The video’s choreography is among JO1’s most physical to date. - The final sequence includes the group performing with 30 dancers. - JO1 previewed the track at KCON LA 2026 and ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2026 before release. - The tour continues to New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles. - The North American dates are: - Oct. 2: Danforth Music Hall, Toronto - Oct. 4: Webster Hall, New York - Oct. 6: Copernicus Center, Chicago - Oct. 8: The Warfield, San Francisco - Oct. 11: The Novo, Los Angeles - ANIMAL is available now on all major streaming platforms.

Between the lines: - The release is more than a language shift; it signals a broader push to reposition JO1 as a cross-border act. - The stronger member involvement suggests the group wants more ownership over its sound as it expands internationally. - The tour timing gives JO1 a chance to convert streaming interest into live momentum across North America.

What's next: - JO1 will use the North American tour to promote ANIMAL across five cities through Oct. 11. - The group’s next phase will likely center on how well the English-language material connects with audiences outside Japan. - The release sets up a larger test of JO1’s global reach as 2026 continues.