The Japanese girl group ATARASHII GAKKO! has released their newest song, “Tokyo Calling,” a spectacular harmony with humorous lyrics about saving the citizens of Japan from being trapped in continuous monotony in their daily lives. It is a marvelous banger and is further enriched by its satirical commentary on Japanese society. Another appealing aspect of the song, in addition to the lyrics and the vocals of MIZYU, SUZUKA, RIN, and KANON, is the melody that blends modern J-pop and rap elements with traditional orchestral compositions in the same vein as composers like Akira Ifukube and Shiro Sagisu.
Uploaded on the YouTube channel of music company 88rising, Pennacky directs the official music video full of visual gags while also being a love letter to the art form of tokusatsu, prominently paying tribute to the “Ultraman” franchise and even with an added layer of film grain and camerawork reminiscent of filmmakers such as Akio Jissoji and Hideaki Anno and the visual effects direction of special effects directors like Eiji Tsuburaya and Shinji Higuchi. Showcased is some outstanding miniature work and cinematography accompanying the four-piece’s kinetic vocals and dance choreography.