About 2 years ago, I was turned on to an awesome little ‘Art Funk’ outfit out of New York City by the name of Japan Soul (Thank you Sy of Naked Highway!). Now, this isn’t just any electro band. Fusing all elements from what could be the greatest decade the music industry has ever known, the 1980s. Japan Soul began to capture the attention of the entire world wide web about the same time that I did with their second album Plastic Utopia and visually stunning video for the lead single off the album entitled ‘Hey Yah Hey.’
Now, a couple years later after taking some time off to go start their families. They’re back! With all the new empowering single called ‘Chica.’ The electro-rock / synth infused track at its root is an anti-harassment theme about those who objectify women. It’s a great reminder that women worldwide don’t have to put up with the incessant misogyny that is thrown at us. The 80’s infusion gives a great dance feel that uplifts the soul. It’s a great transition from all the nonsense on top 40 radio. From a personal stand point, I haven’t been able to turn on the radio and hear a song that doesn’t mention taking off a woman’s panties. It’s downright disgusting. Women aren’t just objects of lust. We’re human too. Thanks to Japan Soul hopefully a lot more will realize it. Can we just all get along and dance?
Along with the song the boys of Japan Soul are planning to release a comic book with the single. You have more male superheroes than female. Why not add one more lady in the mix? The comic will illustrate the song (as shown partially in the lyric video) but add that unexpected narrative element. At their Kickstarter you can donate any amount to assist in the creation! Go on, take a look here!
If you like the song, you can get it for free at Bandcamp. Though, if you LOVE Japan Soul, chip in so that indie bands and artists can keep making the music we all love.