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Electro, J-pop influenced band Kero Kero Bonito performed a sold-out show at Deluxx Fluxx in Detroit last Thursday, a new venue illuminated by graphic posters and dance club energy.

 

The London trio features lead singer Sarah “Bonito” Midori Perry whose high-energy style and sound is influenced by her years spent in Japan before moving to the UK. Most notably, Perry sings in Japanese in many of the group’s songs, revealing her bilingual background. She is also the face of the trio, providing colorful, playful and mysterious expressions for their merch and cover art for their most recent album, Time n’ Place. Additionally, the group consists of producers Gus Lobban and Jamie Bulled, who were rocking out on the drums and guitar. The crowd went wild for the guitar solos during which they could reach out and touch the instrument, thanks to the intimate stage in Deluxx Fluxx. The group performed a lot of fan favorites, saving the popular track “Trampoline” for the encore.

 

KKB released their  album Time N’ Place in October, a darker progression from their vibrant, synth heavy album, Bonito Generation. The group’s ability to layer contrasting styles with Perry’s crystal clear voice make their music unique. Gus and Jamie expressed their interest in including a Japanese-speaking singer because they want their music to represent fun, childish aspects of life, like the Japanese-made Nintendo and Pokemon of their childhood. While the topics of the lyrics are light, there is a deeper meaning behind the instrumentals that aim to replicate the complexity of memory and dreams.

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Deluxx Fluxx  opened earlier this fall and is rapidly growing in popularity. Head down there to check out any show, whether you know the artist or not, the venue provides a fun-time guarantee. It features a black-lit retro vibe covered from ceiling to floor with techni-colored graphic posters, quotes and art. The bar maintains the theme with neon lighting and moving fractals projected on the back. There is more to do than drink and dance at Deluxx; there is an actual arcade as well! The area surrounding Deluxx is supportive of a great night as well - inside The Belt Alley  - filled with bars and murals!

 

KKB’s energetic performance truly showcased their talent with intense instrumental solos and the purity of Perry’s voice that is just as good live as it is recorded. The crowd’s enthusiastic reaction was unlike any I’ve seen at a Detroit show in a while, reflecting how KKB’s experimental tracks and image are refreshing for listeners.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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