Nantokanaru is a post-modern rock outfit who don’t really sound like anything you can quite imagine. The Prague based outfit was formed in 2007 by Japanologist Igor Prusa and their sound even has sprinkles of the language in, particularly so in the opening piece ‘Omatsuri’. The style ranges from an aggressive almost metal-esque sound to a more melodic alternative rock one seamlessly between and within the tracks on ‘Emotional Damage Wreckage’. Reigniting the flame after a decade, Emotional Damage Wreckage is a triumphant return for Igor Prusa and his project. It’s wildly innovative, remarkably addictive, and undeniably anthemic through and through.
The opening piece, ‘Omatsuri’ is an aggressive wall to wall Japanese rock banger that sets the stage for an album that’s constantly going to be breaking down your expectations. The entire EP sees Igor reflecting upon the despondency of an emotionally torn individual facing solitude within the urban jungle of Tokyo. Drawing inspiration from his time day, particularly the intercultural struggles during his time, Emotional Damage Wreckage really feels like you’re unravelling so much while going through it all.
It’s titular track might be the most powerful, infectious, and dark piece of rock music I’ve heard all year. You’re so thoroughly engaged by the way it’s arranged, the way Igor slowly builds to a crescendo, the absolutely rivetingly anthemic chorus and the screams that it comes with. It’s catharsis in the best way possible, all while going through an album that’s going to have you wholly immersed in the epic stature of it all.