ATARASHII GAKKO!’s California Collaboration Bears Fruit with “Pineapple Kryptonite”

/ DAEMON

ATARASHII GAKKO! have a dropped a new MV and launched the world-wide distribution of “Pineapple Kryptonite”.  Pineapple Superman is not amused. 

The MV sees the New School Leaders battling a dog-napping space alien in a Southern California setting (I’m not sure how it survives MIZYU’s twin tail helicopter attack) while the tune takes them to some new musical geography as well. The verses of “Pineapple Kryptonite” are a moodier take on AG!’s signature blend of piano funk, acid jazz and hip hop before transitioning into a surprising, liquid drum & bass chorus. This is an ethereal, soulful vibe we’ve not experienced from the Leaders before. 

“Pineapple Kryptonite” was co-created and produced by Money Mark, an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and musical mad scientist who is primarily known, unofficially at least, as the fourth Beastie Boy. In addition to being part of their live show since the early 90s, he contributed his retro keyboard compositions to every Beastie Boys album since Check Your Head. His other collaborations include work with Iggy Pop, Santana, Moby, Dangermouse, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Linkin Park, The Mars Volta and many, many others. Notably, he also contributed the funky lounge organ tracks that make Beck’s “Where It’s At” such an infectious groove.

As part of their recent visit to Los Angeles, the members of ATARASHII GAKKO! went through a two-and-a-half month period of music immersion with Money Mark, learning to make music with everything from vintage instruments to kitchen utensils and frying pans. The additional fruits of this creative period are to be unveiled later, but AG! recently shared a taste of their educational experience under the tutelage of mentor Mark.

88Rising’s management strategy has again proven to be both shrewd and thoughtful.  ATARASHII GAKKO! flourished throughout their creative partnership with piano-prodigy H ZETT M, so arranging a new collaborative relationship with another keyboard wizard makes total sense.

Hopefully, this new release will give AG! a healthy signal boost just prior to their U.S. debut a the Head in the Clouds Festival. “Pineapple Kryptonite” is now available on your streaming platform of choice.