JO1 Releases First English EP 'ANIMAL' with Global Tour

LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, October 2, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- JO1, the 9-member global boy group, has officially entered a new chapter with the release of their first full English-language EP, "ANIMAL." Produced by Grammy-winning producer Dem Jointz, the six-track project marks a significant step in the group's global expansion and is their official U.S. debut.

"ANIMAL" is designed to introduce another side of JO1 to audiences around the world, capturing the group at its most instinctive and uninhibited. The EP explores themes of freedom, individuality, and breaking beyond expectations, expanding the sound and performance style that have made JO1 one of Japan's most prominent contemporary groups. The title track, "ANIMAL," is a high-energy dance anthem that translates the EP's larger message into a call to break free from limitations and move forward on instinct.

The EP's title track, "ANIMAL," features a propulsive beat and an explosive performance style, with JO1 member Takumi Kawanishi participating in the composition. The song's official music video visually expands on the theme, following JO1 as they leave the confines of a "cage" behind and enter a larger, unpredictable world. The video uses imagery as a metaphor for the group stepping beyond familiar boundaries and onto an increasingly global stage.

The choreography for "ANIMAL" is one of JO1's most physical performances to date, culminating in a sequence where the group is joined by 30 dancers. This expansive final sequence represents the members breaking free from the structures that once contained them.

JO1 has already had an early introduction to "ANIMAL" through performances at major events, including KCON LA 2026 and ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2026, where they previewed the track ahead of its official release. The EP follows a period of growing international momentum for JO1 and arrives as the group kicks off its North American tour today, October 2, at Toronto's Danforth Music Hall. The five-date run will continue through New York, Chicago, and San Francisco before concluding October 11 at The Novo in Los Angeles, further establishing 2026 as a pivotal year in the group's global evolution.

JO1, emerging from PRODUCE 101 JAPAN on March 4th, 2020, has quickly made its mark with their remarkable talent, chart-topping hits, and dynamic performances. Consisting of members Sho, Ren, Ruki, Junki, Keigo, Takumi, Syoya, Sky, and MÁME, the group was formed through 65 million votes by their passionate fans, the "nation's producers." JO1 has nine consecutive number-one singles on the Oricon charts, including the record-breaking debut single "Protostar," which sold over 300,000 copies in its first week. They have eight number-one songs and two number-one albums on Billboard Japan, with "Wandering" achieving double platinum status. JO1 has achieved three MTV Video Music Awards Japan, three MAMA Awards, and one Japan Gold Disc Award, including Favorite Asian Artist at the 2022 MAMA Awards.

The release of "ANIMAL" marks the beginning of a new era for JO1 as the group expands its musical identity, takes a more active role in the creative process, and introduces its music to an even broader international audience.