The popular J-POP girl group ATARASHII GAKKO!; consisting of Suzuka, Kanon, Mizyu, and Rin has gained immense popularity and continues to do so. Already popular in Tokyo, Japan; ATARASHII GAKKO! gained an even bigger following after performing at 88rising’s “Head in the Clouds” over the summer at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Known as chaotic, progressive, and wild ATARASHI GAKKO’s sound stands out amongst many artists in Tokyo and out of Tokyo.
As most girl groups within J-POP are known to be your standard girly pop and cutesy dance-pop tracks, ATARASHII GAKKO! is the opposite. Adding elements of rap, punk, and showa-era kayokyoku in their music as well as their intense self-taught choreography and energy inspired by Japanese butoh dance, head banging and hip-hop street dancing. Reinventing what it means to be a girl group with a new school flair, hence their group name.
“TOKYO CALLING”
With its catchy and easily remembered chants “TOKYO CALLING” renders the jarring realities faced all over the world. The group provides a fun and empowering chant for fans to scream along to. The track depicts various scenarios that we all are victims of, while the girls provide support to push through, move forward, and not waste away at the hardships of life.
The MV displays all four girls as giants walking around the towers of Tokyo as if on a rescue mission to save the citizens from the repetitiveness of life. Dressed in their usual sailor-fuku as always; as well as a chromatic superhero-like version as they rescue the citizens while succeeding as they chant “we are marching” surrounded by the citizens with high energy.
ATARASHII GAKKO! reflected on their new release stating:
“ATARASHII GAKKO! Have ventured further into new territory. In other words, this may be literally the new ATARASHII GAKKO! In our beloved Tokyo, this song addresses the daily dilemmas and struggles we all face. From Tokyo to all of Japan and to the world, we will send our energy, courage, and love. Please give us your best regards!”
ATARASHII GAKKO kicks off their first-ever American Tour in Los Angeles on November 7 at the Fonda Theatre in Hollywood, CA. For information on the tour click here.
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