Japan is well-known for it’s Idol music scene, but the last couple of years have seen a rise in experimentation and exploration of Idol imagery, mixed with a polished underground sound to create something that feels new and almost refreshing. Gaining momentum with groups such as BABYMETAL reaching mainstream success across the world, it seems the stage was set for many more groups to follow and with this came the emergence of Alt Idol and right now, one of the fore-runners and loudest voices of this movement are BiSH.
BiSH (Brand-new Idol SHiT) is the brainchild of WACK manager and producer Watanabe Junnosuke, creator of notorious group BiS. BiSH was formed in 2015 and consists of six members – Cent Chihiro Chittiii, Aina the End, Momoko Gumi Company, Atsuko Hashiyasume, Ling Ling and Ayuni D. Though they were initially formed as a replacement for BiS, they have now established their own foothold in the music industry and seem to show no signs of slowing down until they become the flagship group of WACK.
With their latest music video 遂に死 (Finally Dead) released on April 2, they may just reach that goal sooner rather than expected. This music video, which for long-time listeners may feel like a throwback to their 2016 album Fake Metal Jacket with it’s dark, heavy sound, guttural harsh vocals, a grainy indie-style production quality and even the militaristic-style costumes worn – is taken from their recent mini-album STiCKS.
It’s difficult to nail down the exact concept behind the video, in which BiSH appear either pinned-down in an ongoing conflict or in a training exercise, but the video appears to revolve around the repeated murder and apparent resurrection of Momoko, as training footage and an interview-style home video/variety show is interspersed to add novelty.
It’s possible that the concept for the MV could be inspired by the recent remastered release of Resident Evil 2 or the idea of zombies as the overall theme as Aina the End can be seen wearing an R.P.D S.T.A.R.S tactical vest, which is a direct reference to the Rescue Response squad from the Resident Evil games and could also explain the title Finally Dead.
For followers of BiSH this video will not be overly surprising or shocking, some may even draw parallels to last months ‘2019 WACK Audition Camp’ which is often a traumatic period for WACK fans, but some may be thrilled to hear a side of BiSH they feel have been missing for some time, a reminder of what made them stand-out in the beginning.
Overall, it’s 3.20 minutes of wacky fun that continues to prove that the girls of BiSH can continue to release interesting concepts and ‘original’ music – I recommend to long-time listeners, anybody who wishes to discover BiSH, or as an introduction to WACK.
The first half of their new album, STiCKS is now available for purchase and the second half CARROTS will be released on May 3.
Rating: 85/100
