When it comes to pop-culture, it's a whole new world out there in Japan. And Singaporeans got a taste of it - when Anime Fest Asia was held from November 13-14. But behind all that make-up and costumes, there's a dedicated industry just for the music featured in Japanese anime.

Some call it - "anison" - which is a blend of the words 'animation' and 'song'. And many said it was initially influenced by Japanese indie music. Some voice talents from anime series have also turned towards the anison industry.

Likewise many artistes have dedicated or dabbled in this sub-genre. JAM Project is one superband of this genre and has cult status among fans since it was formed in 2000. "Anime songs gives everyone courage - it is something like the world getting energy from the anime songs. Also, these songs are always positive and that's why we are all attracted to this genre," said Hironobu Kageyama, lead vocalist of JAM Project.

And a group of school girls from Osaka who call themselves Scandal are huge in Japan. Being fans of anime and manga comics, they even have anime characters of themselves which are used as part of their band promotion. "We're not solely an anime band, but it's a great opportunity to work together with anime creators, to write and make songs. It's a good chance to learn more about this area," said Haruna Ono, lead vocalist of Scandal.

"Series like One Piece, Bleach, Naruto, Fullmetal Alchemist - I really love anime. I started reading comics and went into anime after that, but I love both," said Mami Sasazaki, guitarist of Scandal. With songs from this genre continuing to rise up the charts in Japan, there's no doubt the marriage between anime and music will go a long way in getting more fans globally.