YOASOBI, a Japanese music duo consisting of vocalist ikura (Lilas Ikuta) and producer Ayase, burst onto the music scene with their debut single “夜に駆ける” (“Yoru ni Kakeru” or “Racing into the Night”) in December 2019. The song quickly became a phenomenon in Japan and beyond, topping charts and amassing millions of streams. Known for their unique approach of creating music based on literary works, YOASOBI has continued to captivate audiences with their storytelling and melodic compositions.
The Breakthrough with “Yoru ni Kakeru”
“Yoru ni Kakeru” is based on the short story “タナトスの誘惑” (“Thanatos no Yuuwaku” or “Temptation of Thanatos”) by Mayo Hoshino. The song delves into themes of life, death, and the complexities of human emotions, wrapped in an upbeat yet poignant melody. Its music video, featuring captivating animation, further propelled its popularity, resonating with listeners through its profound narrative and artistic visuals.
The success of “Yoru ni Kakeru” established YOASOBI as a fresh and innovative force in the J-pop industry. Their ability to weave intricate stories into their music set them apart, garnering attention from both music enthusiasts and literary fans.
Collaboration with BEASTARS
Building on their momentum, YOASOBI expanded their horizons by collaborating with other forms of media. One of their most notable collaborations is with the anime series BEASTARS, an adaptation of Paru Itagaki’s award-winning manga.
BEASTARS is set in a world of anthropomorphic animals where societal tensions exist between carnivores and herbivores. The story follows Legoshi, a gray wolf grappling with his predatory instincts and his feelings towards a dwarf rabbit named Haru. The series explores deep themes such as identity, prejudice, and the nuances of coexistence.
YOASOBI contributed two songs to the second season of the anime: “怪物” (“Kaibutsu” or “Monster”) as the opening theme and “優しい彗星” (“Yasashii Suisei” or “Gentle Comet”) as the ending theme.
- “Kaibutsu” (“Monster”): This song captures Legoshi’s internal struggle with his carnivorous nature and his desire to overcome societal expectations. The energetic and intense composition reflects the turmoil and resolve within the character, aligning perfectly with the anime’s dramatic narrative.
- “Yasashii Suisei” (“Gentle Comet”): Serving as a softer counterbalance to the opening, this ending theme highlights themes of understanding and empathy. It mirrors the more tender moments of the series, emphasizing connections that transcend inherent differences.
Impact and Reception
YOASOBI’s collaboration with BEASTARS was met with critical acclaim. Fans praised how the duo’s music seamlessly integrated with the anime’s themes, enhancing the storytelling experience. The songs not only complemented the visuals but also added depth to the characters’ emotional journeys.
“Kaibutsu” and “Yasashii Suisei” performed well on music charts, reaffirming YOASOBI’s ability to create compelling music that resonates across different mediums. Their work with BEASTARS showcased their versatility and solidified their status as influential artists in contemporary Japanese music.
Continuing the Narrative Tradition
YOASOBI’s approach of drawing inspiration from literature and storytelling continues to be a defining characteristic of their music. Each song is crafted with attention to narrative detail, bridging the gap between written word and auditory experience.
Their success with “Yoru ni Kakeru” and the BEASTARS collaboration exemplifies the power of combining storytelling with music. By engaging with profound themes and presenting them through accessible and emotive compositions, YOASOBI has carved out a unique niche that appeals to a wide audience.
From the haunting melodies of “Yoru ni Kakeru” to the dynamic tracks for BEASTARS, YOASOBI has demonstrated a remarkable ability to create music that transcends traditional boundaries. Their integration of storytelling into their songs offers listeners a rich, multidimensional experience.
As they continue to explore new narratives and collaborate with various media, YOASOBI remains a pioneering force in modern music. Their work not only entertains but also invites reflection on deeper themes, enriching the cultural landscape and leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
