Kero Kero Bonito – Flamingo

If you’re not already familiar with Kero Kero Bonito (or KKB, as they’re lovingly nicknamed by their devoted fan base), the London-based band is the epitome of irresistible sweetness. With a distinct, dreamy quality to their music that’s at once playful and sincere, KKB is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves bubblegum pop or electronica. Their idiosyncratic musical style—with its quirky, MIDI-sounding instrumentals and bilingual English-Japanese lyrics—has been influenced by everything from Kyary Pamyu Pamyu to My Bloody Valentine, but still feels uniquely their own.

While many of their songs are infectiously fun, it’s their exploration of emotional complexity in uplifting and earnest earworms that makes KKB such an essential listening experience. They’re not afraid to tackle topics that are difficult, such as their 2018 album Time n’ Place, which grapples with death and grief, but they never lose sight of the beauty to be found even in the most bleak of circumstances.

With a sound that’s as unique and playful as its members, KKB is always finding new ways to make us smile. This is especially true of their newest song, Flamingo, a cheerful dance tune with a surprisingly heartfelt message.

It’s not hard to see why Flamingo became a viral hit—the track’s wistful lyrics and joyful melody have captured hearts around the world, with over 86 million views on YouTube alone. The music video, directed by Dan W Jacob, perfectly captures the song’s uplifting energy, with Sarah and her friends dancing in brightly colored outfits, smiling broadly and engaging in lively face-offs. There’s also a subtle, unmistakable touch of irony in the lyrics: while your day-to-day might not include much dancing or partying, it’s possible to channel those youthful fantasies for just a moment, even in the office.

In addition to their own albums, KKB has lent their sweet, expressive voices to numerous other projects. In 2014, they released Bonito Recycling, a compilation of remixes featuring artists such as Danny L Harle and Spazzkid. The same year, they announced their first North American tour, which took place in October of that year.

The following year, they released their first full-length album, Bonito Generation, through Double Denim Records.

In addition to her work with KKB, Sarah Midori Perry has a number of solo projects and collaborates with other artists as well. For example, she appeared as a guest vocalist on the song “Truly” by producer Spazzkid from his 2015 album Promise. She’s also recorded with electronic artist Yelle and appeared on two songs by the London-based band Kabogaeries. She also has a side project, Wharfwhit, where she performs keyboards and guitar, as well as produces and mixes music.