Hard rocking virtuosas of BAND-MAID unveil the music video for “Unleash!!!!!”, the lead track for its upcoming titular EP. Interlaced with anime cuts of the fivesome transforming into Sailor Moon-esque heroines, the maidens ultimately combine forces to bazooka a cosmic evil, an unambiguous analogy for their plans to kick off activities after a prolonged pandemic.
Rapid-fire downstrokes and bass drum thumps remain consistent with much of the bravado foreshadowed in the previous single Sense, suggesting the vigor could reemerge in full force for the EP Unleash, scheduled for release on September 21. Forgoing some melodic finesse for a more impulsive and confrontational composition, it would make for a bold addition if the song were slotted into the setlist for the upcoming US tour.
Once the chorus shifts the ensemble into fifth gear, vocalists SAIKI and MIKU fire off that the time to move is now. The storm clouds begin to part with the simple reminder that their dreams had never escaped them. The maids then join arms and tear asunder the ominous force with a cavalier blast, leaving behind a crater that spells the song title, which MIKU stabs with the band’s flag.
The video should also delight fans with its subtle Easter eggs sprinkled throughout the anime. Bassist MISA takes a swig from her hip flask, drummer AKANE stuffs bananas into her mouth in a reference to her “Gorilla” moniker, and lead guitarist KANAMI swoons over SAIKI, as usual.
BAND-MAID will begin touring in Japan on August 17, followed by a tour across the US on October 9. Pre-orders for EP Unleash have begun on BAND-MAID’s official website.