Kero Kero Bonito ‘Bonito Generation’
With the recent birth of ‘postringtone’ music, brought about by record labels such as PC Music, along with a surge in the popularity of a new breed of fast paced, semi ironic dance pop, it is no wonder that threepiece Kero Kero Bonito have enjoyed a lot of attention and praise for their releases so far. The bands choice of rhythm is a bit more steady and their instrumentation a tiny bit more organic than their friends at PC Music. The melodic elements they employ are intensely precise, and sound as if they have been fed through the nearest N64, whereas the rhythmic aspects are heavy and well produced. This results in extremely cute songs, with an air of serious danceability to them. Sarah Bonito’s lyrical prowess spans over two whole languages as she seamlessly transitions from English to Japanese and back again. She has an ability to make seemingly uninspiring topics fodda for a vibrant and engaging track. A full album however, is a rare venture for any artist associated with this vibrant musical revolution championed mainly in the UK, the psuedo-shallow subject matter and piercing instrumentation could turn sour when stretched over 10-15 tracks. But, confident and carefree, Kero Kero Bonito attempt to rise to the challenge on ‘Bonito Generation’ ‘Big City’ proves to be one of the most impressive songs on the album. The instrumentation is nothing short of amazing. The gliding lead synth belongs in the background of some vibrant, pixellated racing game in which you weave through the roads and alleyways of a bustling cityscape. Bonito skips down the streets, watching everyone walking by as she tells us that it’s a ‘blank canvas, made of concrete’, proving to us that she has the ability to make even the blandest imagery exciting and beautiful. KKB decide to let us rest from all the jumping around and smiling we’ve been doing halfway through the album on the song entitled ‘Break’, the second single from the album. Though unfortunately for us, this song proves one of the most engaging on the album. A squelchy bassline plods around the landscape of the song, accompanying a mellow piano playing relaxing chords quite similar to that of lounge music. We hear...
