BECK: Mongolian Chop Squad

BECK: The Anime That Rocked the Music Scene

Anime has always been known for its diverse range of genres and captivating storytelling. One genre that has gained popularity over the years is music anime, which features characters who are or become passionate about music and chronicles their journey through music and how it interacts with their life. BECK: Mongolian Chop Squad is one such anime. Although it didn’t make a huge splash when it was released it has made a lasting impact on the fans it has garnered due to its fresh take on the music genre and its realistic portrayal of the struggles that come with pursuing a career in the music industry.

BECK, also known as BECK: Mongolian Chop Squad, is a coming-of-age music anime that chronographs the story of an ordinary high school student named Yukio "Koyuki" Tanaka. Koyuk, a shy and introverted teenager, always feels like he doesn't quite fit in with his classmates. However, his life takes a drastic turn when he meets a mysterious and charismatic guitarist named Ryusuke Minami. Ryusuke delves Koyuki deeper to the world of rock music, guitars and camaraderie.

BECK delves into themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery as the characters navigate their personal and professional lives. Koyuki's growth as a musician and individual is a central focus of the anime, as he learns to believe in himself and follow his passion for music. The anime explores the power of music to connect people from different backgrounds and cultures, as seen in the band's interactions with fans and fellow musicians.

In addition to Koyuki, BECK also stands out for its other well-developed and relatable characters. Each member of the band brings something unique to the group, whether it's Ryusuke's raw talent, Chiba’s energetic charisma, Taira’s skill on the bass, or Chiba’s infectious energy or Saku’s passion for drumming. All brought together by Koyuki’s determination and persistence. The interactions and dynamics between the characters feel authentic and organic, making the audience feel invested in their journey and growth throughout the series.

Standout characters: One of if not THE standout character is Maho, Ryuske’s little sister. She stands out in almost every scene she’s in. She presents as a brash, out spoken girl with rough edges but is really a big softie that cares about her brother and Koyuki. I will delve deeper into her in a character review I will be uploading soon. So, subscribe and set your notification bell so you can get it immediately when it hits.

But of all the aspects to love about this anime there are two crucial features that set BECK apart. The first feature is, without a doubt, its stellar soundtrack, which features a mix of rock, punk, and alternative music that perfectly complements the themes and emotions of the anime. The anime showcases the power of music to inspire, heal, and bring people together, as seen in the band's electrifying performances and heartfelt ballads. The music in BECK is not just background noise; it is woven in as central part of the narrative and characters, adding emotion depth and layers to their experiences and struggles.

The other crucial aspect that sets BECK apart from other music anime is its realistic portrayal of the music industry. The anime does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of the industry, such as the struggle to find gigs, the pressure to sell records, the cutthroat competition among bands and underhanded play of music executives. BECK captures the essence of the underground rock scene not only in Japan but across the and highlights the challenges that aspiring musicians face on their journey to success.

The anime explores Koyuki's transformation from a timid high school student to a passionate and talented musician as he navigates the challenges of being in a band, dealing with rival bands, and chasing his dream of making it big in the music industry. Along the way, Koyuki forms deep bonds with his bandmates and discovers the power of music to bring people together and express emotions that words alone cannot convey.

Overall, BECK is a captivating and heartfelt anime that resonates with audiences for its realistic portrayal of the music industry, memorable characters, and powerful music. The anime's themes of friendship, budding romances, and self-discovery are universal and relatable, making it a must-watch for fans of music and coming-of-age stories. Whether you're a fan of rock music or just looking for a compelling and emotional anime to