Japanese “Harajuku-core” sensation HANABIE. have released a new single, “Life Is Short, O Brave Girl,” alongside an accompanying music video.
The track has been selected as the opening theme for the upcoming anime adaptation of the manga series Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games, a collaboration the band says felt especially personal given their own history.
In a collective statement, HANABIE. explained:
“Since the anime is set at an all-girls school, we felt a strong connection to the story. HANABIE. was also formed by students from an all-girls school during our high school years, so we could really relate to the passion and dedication the characters have for something they love. As we worked on the song, we found ourselves recalling many memories and felt excited imagining how the track would come together.
We’re huge fans of anime and video games ourselves, so it’s a real honor to be involved with such a wonderful series.”
Vocalist Yukina revealed that she immersed herself in the source material while crafting the lyrics, incorporating references that fans of the manga and anime may recognize.
Yukina said:
“Since this is an anime theme song, I read the original work and immersed myself completely in its world while writing the song. For the lyrics, I included words that fans of ‘Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games’ will hopefully recognize and think, ‘Oh!’ when they hear them.
I also reflected on my own youth, remembering the things our faculty advisor said to us when we were attending an all-girls school and passionately playing in a band while being obsessed with heavy music, as well as the rebellious spirit I felt during those days.
I hope this song becomes one that overflows with energy for anyone who is passionately devoted to something!”
Guitarist and vocalist Matsuri echoed those sentiments, noting the similarities between the band’s own experiences and the story depicted in the anime.
“HANABIE. and the characters in the anime have many things in common, such as growing up in an all-girls school and dedicating ourselves wholeheartedly to something during our school days. Because of that, there were many moments during the songwriting process when I could truly relate to the story.”
Bassist Hettsu described the song as a powerful representation of the competitive spirit found in fighting games, while drummer Chika highlighted several musical details fans should listen for, including a chorus section synchronized with the lyrics “MATCH UP!! SMASH UP!!”
The new single continues HANABIE.’s rapid rise on the international stage, further blending the band’s signature mix of metalcore, alternative metal, and J-pop influences with the worlds of anime and gaming.
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