While this album, technically listed as a single, is the shortest one I’ve reviewed so far – only 3 songs – pop band Kero Kero Bonito pack so much into these three songs. With poppy synths that sound like they belong in a video game, effected vocals, and airy drums, this album is infused with a bubblegum pop feeling and just screams “good times.”
The first track, “The Princess and the Clock” tells the story of a girl who has traveled the world and paints about it to remember it, while locked up in a tower and no way to escape. The somewhat melancholy theme is covered up by heavy synthesizers, a driving beat, and pop vocals that make it a fun and danceable song. Followed by “21/04/20,” the album continues on with the light and airy feel associated with this band’s previous albums, including the precursor to this one, Civilisation I. This track is pure nostalgia, talking about smelling the blooming flowers in the spring, birthday celebrations, and casually making plans with friends. Not only are the lyrics nostalgic, but so is the music. The high-pitched synthesizers throughout the song make it sound like the perfect summer song, leaving the audience longing for the carefree days of soaking up the sun with no work or responsibilities to worry about. Finally, the album closes out with “Well Rested,” which relies more on the music than the others, the vocals blended into the back, and partially sung in Japanese. A little over 7 minutes long, this final song encapsulates the feeling of the other songs, while incorporating more daunting vocals and heavier synth sounds. The song is about taking advantage of all that life has to offer, not worrying about what is to come and focusing only on living, closing out with the sounds of water falling and birds chirping.
Combining elements of dance-pop, electronica, and so many other genres, this album is an incredible piece of art that allows listeners to relax and have fun while listening, all while reminiscing on the good old days and looking forward to what is coming next. Upbeat, bright, and unapologetically optimistic, Kero Kero Bonito gives us all the summer album we’ve been looking for to bring us out of this last year’s hardships. It encourages listeners to look forward, not dwell on the past, and enjoy all that life is each and every day.
Loading ...