Tokyo-based indie/alternative rock duo Bearwear have released their latest single, ‘Basilisk’, in collaboration with 2.5-dimensional artist Yuka Nagase. The track serves as the lead from their upcoming digital EP ‘ever_changing’, scheduled for release on July 31st.
Bearwear, a duo recognised for their exploratory approach blending emo and dream pop with DIY digital core and bedroom pop, join forces with Nagase, known for her versatile presence spanning digital and physical art forms. Nagase, a big reptile fan, spotted Bearwear’s 2018 music video ‘I’ll take you anywhere’, featuring lizards, and reached out to them on social media, sparking their collaboration years later.
Inspired by the mythical basilisk—a creature symbolizing transformation through shedding its skin—’Basilisk’ intertwines Bearwear’s indie rock melodies with Nagase’s sweet expressive vocals. The song reflects on themes of adaptation and metamorphosis, echoing Nagase’s ability to blur boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds.
Visual direction and artwork for the EP, including the upcoming ‘Basilisk’ music video, are helmed by emerging new media artist JACKSON kaki.
About Bearwear
Bearwear, formed in Tokyo in 2016 by Kazma (Lyric/Vocals) and Kou (Music/Arrangement/Bass), is an indie/emo duo known for their introspective themes and integration of ambient and club music aesthetics. Influenced by US indie rock, their sound embraces pop vocal work with chill-hop elements, appealing to fans across indie and pop scenes. They have released multiple works including their debut album ‘The Incomplete Circle’ in December 2022 and their latest full album ‘:(uncertain place)’ in December 2023.
About Yuka Nagase
Yuka Nagase, known as a “dataryoku-kei artist” (multi-talented artist), effortlessly navigates between the digital and physical realms as both a virtual presence and a live performer. Her persona, crafted through 3DCG and illustrations, seamlessly blends innovative digital expression with real-world artistry. In August 2023, Nagase made her debut solo live with ‘Eureka’ at Ebisu LIQUIDROOM, a sold-out event that fused digital aesthetics with live-action performance. Further acclaim followed in September 2023 with ‘Mujaki Na Kimochi’, her debut tie-up song marking the 20th anniversary of the the popular Tirol Chocolate Kinako Mochi, which garnered over 1 million plays on TikTok.
Bearwear
Basilisk feat. Yuka Nagase
Release Date: 03/07/2024
Label: ZAYA RECORDS
Stream: Spotify | Apple Music
