South Korean avant-garde collective Balming Tiger joins forces with Japan’s explosive performance unit ATARASHII GAKKO! for a vibrant new single titled “Narani Narani.” The track is a kaleidoscopic celebration of childhood freedom and creativity, representing the first official collaboration between Balming Tiger and a Japanese artist.
Inspired by memories of carefree days on the playground, “Narani Narani” is a psychedelic folk anthem that defies genre and national boundaries. Fueled by the unfiltered imagination of both groups, the track bursts with unpredictable sonic twists and bold artistic choices, inviting listeners into a vivid world where cultural lines dissolve and pure joy takes center stage. The accompanying video mirrors this spirit, blending playful visuals and surreal storytelling to bring their shared creative vision to life.
“We met by crossing mountains and seas with a heart that cared for each other,” stated Balming Tiger. “Thanks to AG!’s kindness and smile, a work full of positive energy was born. We hope that you will find a little peace in your hearts as well, recalling the memories of laughing and crying with your childhood friends.”
ATARASHII GAKKO added: “We have been inspired and inspired by Balming Tiger’s activities for a long time. Because it is BT and AG!, a chemical reaction is possible, and we cannot hide our excitement. We hope that this work will spread not only to our countries, but also to the world!”
“Narani Narani” follows months of creative exchange between the two groups, including a joint performance of “Buriburi / Pigeon and Plastic” at Wonderlivet Festival and a viral dance to “Spirit Chaebol” that captured media attention across South Korea and Japan.
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Taking their name from the iconic Asian ointment, Balming Tiger describes themselves as a “multinational alternative K-pop band.” With an eclectic roster of performers and creators — including Omega Sapien, sogumm, bj wnjn, Mudd the student, San Yawn, Unsinkable, Jan’ Qui, Leesuho, Chanhee Hong, DJ Abyss, and Henson Hwang — the collective is known for its genre-fluid music and boundary-pushing visuals. Their mission: to reflect and amplify the voices of today’s youth and to propel Asian culture to the global forefront.
From their boundary-defying debut mixtape Balming Tiger vol.1: 虎媄304 to their recent single “Wash Away” (theme of the acclaimed drama Tokyo Salad Bowl), Balming Tiger continues to subvert expectations. Accolades from Rolling Stone, The New York Times, Vogue, and a Colbert Show performance further cement their status as one of music’s most innovative forces. Their 2023 SXSW appearance earned them the prestigious Grulke Prize, awarded to the festival’s most exciting emerging act.