Following their debut mixtape Intro Bonito, the London trio known as Kero Kero Bonito polish their sound for a sophomore effort that rides the curtails of their quirky warm persona. Bonito Generation doesn't stylistically evolve as much as its aesthetics are refined with a touch more welcoming tone. Stagnation seems prevalent, conjuring similar moods and feelings from their smiley place of simple thoughts and life's innocence. It doesn't pack quite the punch with surprise no longer being a factor.
That's not to say its a bad record but both the instrumentation and lyrical themes roll off lukewarm as the tracks are packaged into simpler song structures. Slower melodies, gentler percussion and a sense of safeness permeate. Bonito Generation is less adventurous, lacking creativity and sparkle. Thus Sarah's easy expressions of her college life tend to lull into a mediocrity. At its most off track, the band infuse casual communications and Japanese lyrics but its not the saving grace the music needs.
Trampoline
is the records best track as the simplistic language and metaphor finds
a space to feel a tad absurd when it revolves around the jumping mat.
The song has a little more of a club vibe with its colorful synths and
tight percussion, something one or two other tracks do but its not
enough to give the record edge. This one really hides in the shadow of
its predecessor, somewhat of an autopilot experience. Its competent,
enjoyable but lacks the dazzle of Intro Bonito.
Rating: 5/10