3 + 5, the long-awaited ninth studio album from Tokyo-based Noise-Rockers, MELT-BANANA, is being released August 23rd on 12” LP vinyl, CD, digital download and streaming platforms on their own A-Zap label.
The album showcases the duo’s visionary musical approach and extraordinary abilities as performers: Yako’s giddy, hyperactive vocalizing and Agata’s glitchy, cyberpunk guitar, delivered at dizzying speed, bathed in a whirlwind of aggressive electronics. As on previous releases, the music on 3 + 5 is unpredictable, always filled with surprises and excitement. Their aesthetic approach is exultant and experimental, fusing diverse genres, awash in chaotic energy.
3 + 5 synthesizes elements of a variety of Extreme Musics, Hyper-Pop, classic Punk, vintage Metal, and Noise. It’s informed by Japanese culture in general, and the subcultures of gaming, anime and homegrown underground music in particular. The album’s nine tracks have been crafted to maximize the independent appeal of each song (since so many listeners will be streaming and playlisting these songs). Each selection boasts its own unique charm and ideas that beg for repeated listening.
While Melt-Banana hasn’t explicitly explained the meaning behind the album’s title, 3 + 5, prime numbers symbolize mathematical integrity and independence, which could represent MELT-BANANA’s uniqueness and freedom. Why “3 + 5” and not “1 + 7”? That’s left for you to ponder.
Today Glide is offering an exclusive premiere of the standout track “Stopgap” and its video, both of which capture the frenetic and wild energy of this untamed band of heathens. The song abounds with punk energy and vicious technicality that makes you want to thrash with abandon. The video was made by IROHA, who also does VJ work for their live shows in Japan. If the laser-centric video doesn’t give it away, it’s abundantly clear that Stopgap brings a relentless level of energy that straddles the line between prog and punk with no shortage of explosive momentum.
WATCH:
3 Responses
Melt-Banana, thank you for being better than everyone. This video proves it. Fun Bobby
Love it !! Looking forward to getting the new CD and vinyl in the mail later this month 😀 😀 😀
Awesome! Melt Banana never disappoint. So looking forward to the new album, & seeing them on their European tour