Avantgardey go to the Seaside

It’s great to see Avantgardey outside of a studio and beside the seaside (beside the sea!). Here they are dancing to “The Day the Seagull Soared”. A 1978 hit by Machiko Watanabe, the song uses the image of a seagull taking flight as a metaphor for emotional freedom - breaking away from heartbreak, self-doubt, or constraints to move forward with dignity and quiet strength.  That would explain the  bird-like flapping that the dancers are making as they move along the beach. Hopefully they will reproduce this dance routine when they go on their six city tour in Japan, starting in Komatsu City  in May and ending in Fukuoka International Congress Centre on 4 July.

The song is an enduring favorite in Japan. Its popularity comes from a combination of factors: Watanabe’s clear, expressive vocals; a memorable, soaring melody that builds emotional release; and lyrics that resonated strongly with late-1970s Japan, particularly with listeners drawn to themes of independence and resilience. Over time, it has become a nostalgic classic, frequently revisited in TV shows, covers, and reinterpretations - making it especially effective when contrasted with modern, avant-garde performances like Avantgardey’s.

If you don’t know who they are, Avantgardey is a Japanese dance group known for their avant-garde choreography, uniform school-style costumes, deadpan expressions, and surreal, highly synchronised performances that blend humour with precision.

Watch their latest (fantastic) video below.