Square One cover

Square One

m-flo · 2012

67 min · 19 tracks · J-pop

An eclectic fusion of J-pop, hip hop, and jazz rap that creates a vibrant sonic landscape filled with catchy hooks.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Perfect Place Start here — This track stands out with its infectious melody and relatable lyrics about finding comfort and belonging, embodying the album's overarching themes of self-discovery.
  • →
    Never Needed You — With its emotional depth and memorable chorus, this song captures the essence of longing and independence, showcasing the group's lyrical prowess alongside their signature sound.
  • →
    Don’t Stop Me Now — This upbeat anthem energizes the album with its motivational message and dynamic beats, making it a standout track that encourages listeners to embrace life's challenges.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with interludes
  • wave-like pacing with contrasts
  • catchy hooks for sing-alongs
  • vibrant energy for social settings
  • for upbeat gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • dislike interludes and transitions

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Reintroduced m-flo after hiatus, showcasing innovative sound and reaching a high chart position.
Themes
Tokyo nightlife· self-discovery journey· emotional independence
Career context
By 2012, m-flo had established themselves as a prominent figure in the Japanese music scene. 'Square One' was their first full-length album since taking a hiatus after the 2007 release 'Beat Space Nine', marking a significant return to creativity and collaboration within their evolving sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Nujabes· Kenshi Yonezu· Shingo Nishinari
New to m-flo? Find your way in →

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • RUN

    The verses shift from reflective nostalgia to an urgent call to action, creating a sense of urgency as the narrator grapples with past choices.

    The juxtaposition of reflection and immediacy highlights a transformation in perspective, urging listeners to confront both their history and future.

Tracklist

  • 1 □ [sayonara_2012] 3:00
  • 2 Perfect Place Start here 3:56
  • 3 ALIVE 4:24
  • 4 □ [frozen_space_project] 1:18
  • 5 Never Needed You 3:49
  • 6 Oh Baby 4:46
  • 7 □ [square1_scene_1_murder_he_wrote] 2:03
  • 8 Don’t Stop Me Now 5:09
  • 9 All I Want Is You 5:10
  • 10 Acid 02 4:45
  • 11 Call Me 3:15
  • 12 □ [ok_i_called] 0:12
  • 13 Sure Shot Ricky 3:41
  • 14 RUN 5:01
  • 15 □ [square1_scene_2_don’t_blink] 2:35
  • 16 So Mama I’d Love To Catch Up, OK? 4:20
  • 17 She’s So (Outta Control) 4:33
  • 18 Yesterday 5:14
  • 19 □ [to_be_continued...] 0:31

What to play next

Neven
Listen next

Neven

2013

Continues the vibrant fusion with fresh sounds and themes post-Square One.
Award Supernova: Loves Best
Go back to

Award Supernova: Loves Best

2008

Sets the stage with similar eclectic energy before diving into Square One.
Full m-flo discography Where to start with m-flo Artists like m-flo
J-pop hip-hop pop rap

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Modal Soul

Modal Soul

Nujabes

Shares a similar jazzy hip-hop vibe with introspective themes and a vibrant, urban atmosphere.

Yankee

Yankee

Kenshi Yonezu

Explores themes of self-discovery and emotional independence with eclectic pop and hip-hop influences.

DAWN

DAWN

Aimer

Captures a moody, atmospheric sound that's reflective of nightlife experiences and personal journeys.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata