I want to introduce a track with such an intense impact that once you hear it, it will never leave your brain. The song is “Shaba KA/RU/MA” by Religious Corporation Malaya. While the group’s performance already stands out as unique in the idol scene, I want to focus here on the track itself—specifically on the incredible craftsmanship of Kissa Sasaki, who handled the lyrics, composition, and arrangement.
1. Polychromatic Sound Production: Vividness that Shakes the Brain The moment you hit play, you are overwhelmed by Kissa Sasaki’s signature “high-resolution popness.” The synthesizer tones are as vivid as a multi-colored neon sign. While particles of glittering electronic sound fly about, it never feels cluttered; they dive into the listener’s ears with carefully calculated placement. Despite dealing with seemingly heavy and damp themes like Shaba (the corrupt world) and Karma, the soundscape is endlessly colorful and futuristic. This “contrast between the lyrical world and the sound” invites the listener into a mysterious state of euphoria.
2. The Backbone of the Track: The Undulating “Cool Bassline” It is no exaggeration to say that the true protagonist of this song is the bassline. That solid, groovy bass that makes Kissa Sasaki fans involuntarily grin explodes in Shaba KA/RU/MA as well. It doesn’t just support the rhythm; the bass itself sings like a melody, undulating and driving the entire track forward. While the upper-register synths dance vividly, it is this cool, calculated bassline holding down the bottom end that gives the track its intense driving force. If you listen with headphones, you are guaranteed to get drunk on that “low-end pleasure.”
3. The Chemical Reaction between Kissa Sasaki Magic and Malaya An “addictiveness” that feels catchy yet harbors a touch of madness. This is the chemical reaction born from the collision of Kissa Sasaki’s meticulous compositional beauty and the unique character possessed by the unit, Religious Corporation Malaya. If you haven’t heard it yet, please experience Shaba KA/RU/MA at least once. With those striking electronic sounds and that cool bassline burned into your eardrums, you, too, will surely end up “joining the faith.”