Indra Aziz
The vibrant and genre-defying Japanese group ATARASHII GAKKO!, renowned for their electrifying performances and distinctive aesthetic, are poised to make a significant mark on the London music scene. The quartet, comprised of SUZUKA, KANON, MIZYU, and RIN, will headline the iconic Roundhouse venue, a date that coincides with their 11th anniversary. This milestone event also serves as a launchpad for their highly anticipated new studio album, "From Tokyo with Love," a project deeply rooted in their appreciation for their multifaceted hometown.
A Global Journey, A Hometown Perspective
ATARASHII GAKKO!’s ascent has been characterized by a relentless global touring schedule, exposing them to a rich tapestry of cultures, sounds, and experiences. This international exposure has not only broadened their artistic palette but also fostered a profound re-evaluation of their origins. Upon returning to Tokyo between tours, the group discovered a renewed appreciation for the city’s unique ability to absorb global influences and synthesize them into something distinctly Japanese. This process mirrors their own artistic evolution, where they have consistently blended diverse musical genres and performance styles to forge their unique identity.
This newfound perspective on Tokyo’s dynamic cultural landscape became the bedrock for their forthcoming album, "From Tokyo with Love." The project delves into how the city has shaped each member individually, while simultaneously highlighting their collective synergy. It explores the intricate relationship between personal growth and group cohesion, demonstrating how their distinct voices converge to create a singular, powerful artistic statement. The album promises to be an auditory exploration of Tokyo’s vibrant spirit, filtered through the lens of ATARASHII GAKKO!’s innovative artistry.
The Roundhouse: A Milestone Celebration
The choice of London’s Roundhouse for their 11th-anniversary celebration is significant. This historic venue, known for hosting groundbreaking performances across various genres, provides a fitting backdrop for a group that consistently challenges musical and visual conventions. The headline show on July 19th, 2024, marks a full-circle moment for the quartet. Eleven years prior, on July 19th, 2013, ATARASHII GAKKO! performed their inaugural show in a modest tent in Tokyo. The trajectory from that intimate beginning to a headline slot at a renowned London venue underscores their remarkable journey and growing international acclaim.
"The fact that we get to spend our 11th anniversary at the Roundhouse in London, as a headline show?!" the group expressed in a recent interview. "Eleven years ago on 19 July, when we played our very first show in a tiny tent in Tokyo, we could never have imagined this. It’s going to be a show that only the four of us right now can create, one that could only happen on this exact day. We want to throw ourselves into it fully and soak up every second." This sentiment highlights their dedication to creating unique, in-the-moment experiences for their fans.
"From Tokyo with Love": An Exploration of Identity and Influence
The album "From Tokyo with Love" is presented as a natural progression following their 2024 release, "AG! Calling." While "AG! Calling" was an outward-looking exploration, "From Tokyo with Love" pivots to an introspective examination of their roots. The group articulated their motivation: "After our 2024 album AG! Calling, it was time for what’s NEXT. Travelling in our own way, we had this incredible experience of realising there are fans out there for us in every corner of the world. Carrying that with us, we’re setting off on an even bigger adventure, heading further into the infinite. We made this album with all our heart, from our origin point and hometown, Tokyo. Four bodies as one, but four completely different colours. We want you to feel our energy deeper, stronger, and wider than ever."
This statement reveals a core message of unity within diversity. The album aims to showcase the individual strengths and unique personalities of each member – SUZUKA, KANON, MIZYU, and RIN – while emphasizing their collective power as ATARASHII GAKKO!. The "four completely different colours" metaphor suggests a rich sonic and thematic palette, where individual contributions are celebrated and harmonized to create a cohesive whole. This approach to album creation mirrors their collaborative process, which they describe as akin to a singular, synchronized entity.
The Creative Synergy of ATARASHII GAKKO!
The ability of ATARASHII GAKKO! to produce such cohesive and impactful work, despite their distinct individual tastes and personalities, is a testament to their shared vision and collaborative spirit. "We each have really different tastes and personalities, but when it comes to ATARASHII GAKKO!, all four of us share the same vision," they explained. "It’s almost like the team operates as one big brain. Within that shared space, we each bring our own ideas to the table, and we evolve by carefully protecting the things we’ve always held dear." This "one big brain" analogy underscores their telepathic connection and mutual understanding, allowing them to navigate creative differences and emerge with a unified artistic output. This approach is crucial for a group that embraces genre-bending, requiring a delicate balance of disparate influences.
Tokyo: A Muse and a Foundation
The influence of Tokyo extends beyond the thematic content of their album; it has fundamentally shaped them as artists. Their first international foray as a group was to Los Angeles, an experience that proved transformative. "The first time we went to LA – the first overseas city we ever visited as a group – we had this real moment of realisation," they recalled. "A whole new world, new values – we were hit by so much. But at the same time, getting to know countries and cities outside Japan made us realise just how amazing and fascinating Japan, and Tokyo especially, really is. We feel genuinely proud to be creating and performing based in Tokyo." This journey highlights a common artistic phenomenon: exposure to the global can often lead to a deeper appreciation of the local. Tokyo, with its blend of tradition and hyper-modernity, its pulsating energy, and its unique cultural nuances, provides an inexhaustible source of inspiration.
Pushing Boundaries and Embracing Individuality
ATARASHII GAKKO!’s artistic philosophy is intrinsically linked to challenging conventions and celebrating individuality. Their mantra, "Colour outside the lines with individuality and freedom!", encapsulates their approach to both their music and their public persona. This ethos is evident in their performances, which are characterized by high-energy choreography, a fusion of traditional Japanese elements with contemporary styles, and a bold visual aesthetic. Their genre-bending nature, incorporating elements of J-pop, hip-hop, rock, and electronic music, further exemplifies their commitment to breaking down traditional artistic barriers.
Their live shows are meticulously crafted to be more than just musical performances; they are immersive experiences designed to forge a profound connection with the audience. "It’s an energy that only the four of us can bring, and through our music and performance, we want to become one with everyone around the world," they stated. "The vibe that can only be born in that exact moment is something we really cherish." This focus on creating ephemeral, shared moments underscores their desire for authentic human connection through art.
A Reflection on Their London Debut
Their initial performance in London in June 2024, as part of a broader European tour, was met with considerable enthusiasm. The group noted the distinct atmosphere of the city, observing, "Even within our European tour, London had this really special atmosphere. It felt like every single person in the audience was enjoying the music and the performance in their own unique way!" This observation suggests a discerning and engaged audience, appreciative of ATARASHII GAKKO!’s multifaceted appeal. The positive reception in London undoubtedly fueled their anticipation for the upcoming headline show and anniversary celebration.
Diverse Inspirations and Personal Passions
The group’s creative wellspring extends to various influences, including international music. When asked about British bands that have inspired them, SUZUKA singled out The Chemical Brothers, expressing a desire for a future collaboration. This admiration for electronic music pioneers aligns with ATARASHII GAKKO!’s own embrace of electronic soundscapes and innovative production.
Beyond their musical pursuits, the members cultivate diverse individual passions, including crochet, baking, and drawing. These personal interests, while seemingly disparate from their stage personas, likely contribute to their well-rounded creative outlook. When asked how they relax while touring, they emphasized the importance of shared experiences: "We love going out with our tour crew, eating the best local food in each city, sightseeing, and taking walks. That’s how we recharge." This indicates a preference for immersive cultural engagement and communal enjoyment as a means of maintaining their energy and creative vitality on the road.
Broader Implications and Future Trajectory
The success of ATARASHII GAKKO! signifies a growing global appetite for diverse and unconventional musical expressions. Their ability to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries with their unique blend of Japanese artistry and universal themes positions them as significant cultural ambassadors. The "From Tokyo with Love" album and the London headline show are not merely individual events but represent a crucial chapter in their ongoing narrative, demonstrating their capacity for evolution and their unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
Their consistent engagement with fans and their dedication to creating memorable live experiences suggest a strategic approach to building a lasting global fanbase. As they continue to explore new sonic territories and refine their artistic vision, ATARASHII GAKKO! remains a compelling force in contemporary music, poised to inspire a new generation of artists to embrace individuality and global connectivity. The upcoming anniversary celebration in London serves as a powerful testament to their journey, a milestone that looks both back at their remarkable past and enthusiastically forward to an ever-expanding future.
Words: Adam Davidson
Photography: Lindsey Blane
