INDEX
An Uncompromising Spirit of Freedom
The phrase “First Choice Last Stance,” sung in “PINKVIBES,” is so important to Suchmos that they named their own label “F.C.L.S.” after it. One of the core stances they have upheld from the beginning is “no compromise.” While many band members value this, actually living by it is incredibly challenging. Refusing to pander, resisting the pressure to conform, honoring one’s own sensibility, and living authentically have become the very essence and way of life of the living entity called “Suchmos,” and this has long been one of the qualities that endears them to their era.
Now, Suchmos seems to embody this “no compromise” attitude even more naturally than ever before. They appear to have gained an even deeper sense of “freedom.”
The new song “To You” (which is not scheduled to be included on the EP ‘Sunburst’) began with all members shouting like mischievous kids. Amid Yamamoto’s grooving bass, they shouted, “We came to say what we want,” and repeatedly asked, “Are you alive?” Meanwhile, YONCE flashed a fearless, Joker-like grin while walking the catwalk. This sequence perfectly symbolized their “no compromise” stance. The track felt like a blend of YONCE’s rock ’n’ roll energy from Hedigan’s and TAIHEI’s horn sounds from Sai and N.S.DANCEMBLE, hinting at an even freer expansion of Suchmos’ musical style going forward.
Another unreleased new song performed live was “Latin,” also not slated for the EP ‘Sunburst.’ In songs like “PINKVIBES” and others, YONCE is known for moving and stepping naturally to the music, letting the sound guide his voice. In “Latin,” a repeated phrase borrowed from a cover of Jagatara’s “Dark Continent” echoed:
“Keep dancing as you please / Keep singing as you please / Keep talking as you please / Keep moving as you please.”
One moment from the song stood out: in total darkness, all the members shouted spontaneous words from the heart:
“Let me say something to the friends who couldn’t come today. You idiots! Thanks a lot!” (OK)
“We’re back, Suchmos! Enjoy the rest of the show!” (TAIKING)
“This feels amazing!” (Yamamoto)
“Hello everyone! It’s been a while! I felt like a kid on a school trip again—so excited I couldn’t sleep. I’m having fun here with all of you! Please continue to support Suchmos!” (TAIHEI)
“Good evening, everyone! Long time no see! I missed you! I think everyone here today is someone you can get along with really well, so please enjoy making memories tonight. Thank you!” (Kaiki Ohara)
They spoke these words without turning on the lights, likely because they believe the music should remain the true star of the show, and they didn’t want to create a sentimental mood. I also sensed this was their own way of showing a bit of “shyness.” When the next song started—and it was “GAGA”—I couldn’t help but smile.
Since their debut in 2015, as they rapidly climbed the ladder and caught public attention, each member has experienced a range of emotions. Even during their hiatus, after losing a beloved member, they surely reflected deeply on life, their paths, and their music. Through it all, they seemed to have embraced a way of living that strips away distractions and unnecessary things, focusing only on what truly matters.
Some things are beyond control. Many others turn out to be manageable. Some things don’t need worrying about. It’s okay not to have all the answers. Suchmos appears to have “overstood” — understood beyond “understanding” — these truths and, in doing so, gained a greater sense of freedom.
