In the music world, there is an unusual band that is telling stories in a unique way: Rare Americans. More than just a band, they are true and original animated storytellers. Their music has been described as “bendy and melodic” and an anthem for those battling life’s toughest corners.
Having released four albums and an EP since 2018, Rare Americans are now hitting their stride. From playing to empty rooms to sold out shows in 13 countries, Juno Award nominations, and 500 million streams, their journey has been as unorthodox as their music. They sing for the underdog, the voiceless and the children who cling to hope.
And the latest offering, Searching for Strawberries: the Story of Jongo Bongo, is an attempt by Rare American, a 33-minute animated musical film, the first of its kind in the history of music. The movie brings the story to life in a new way, not only through the music, but also through the unique visual presentation of the animation.
The story centers around Jongo, the bassist of RA, who goes from being an unassuming company employee to becoming an international rock star. Through the animated film, viewers will be transported into a magical world of music and witness the transformation of Jongo Bongo from a nobody to a shining star on stage.
In this animated musical film, music and images are closely integrated, with each melody echoing the plot of the images. Audiences not only listen to the music of Rare Americans, but also feel the emotions and conflicts behind the story through the vivid animated images. This new form of presentation provides the audience with a full-on musical experience, as if they were in a fantastical world of music.
In this crazy world, Rare Americans are on a mission to understand and echo these stories through their music and uniquely animated musical numbers.
Let’s follow Redwoods and experience the world!