If there’s one Japanese act that’s destined to take over the world, it’s Atarashii Gakko! For the last eleven years, the quartet of Kanon, Mizyu, Rin, and Suzuka have left audiences in awe with their clever lyrics, jaw-dropping dance routines, and a badass attitude that brings to mind ’80s-era Beastie Boys. Their fourth original album, From Tokyo with Love, takes their sound all the way back to the era of puffy sleeves and TV shows about sailor-suited girls wielding weapons. Retro may have been in for a while now, but Atarashii Gakko! proves that it’s a style that won’t be leaving anytime soon!

The album kicks off with “Oi AG!”, a powerful and foot-stomping nod to AC/DC. As Suzuka declares that the revolution has arrived, the other three members march forward with a mission to conquer and a dream to make true. “TTTTOKYO” goes the surf rock route with its melody, with vocals that bring to mind the B-52s and DEVO. It may have a classic vibe, but as the four members harmonize, it’s clear that they’ve still got their eyes on the future.

“Take Me with You” fills the ears with neon colors, like a fresh Trapper Keeper bought alongside a JEM and the Holograms poster. It’s the kind of song that would’ve been a perfect mall anthem for teens 40 years ago, and perhaps those who grew up in that era will no doubt feel nostalgic when this song hits the speakers. That trend continues with “Catch That Train”, with Kanon showcasing why she has the most beautiful vocals of the group. But she has quite the competition with Mizyu, whose solo song “Kore de E” brims with the sort of sweetness and cuteness that most idol singers wish they could conjure up!

As for who the most gangsta of Atarashii Gakko! is, look no further than Rin. The Jamaican-flavored “Waiting for Good Time” not only demonstrates her wonderful singing style, but her rapping skills would make Nicki Minaj quiver with fear. However, this group is always strongest when they are together, and “Dance Dance” brings the ladies to class like they’re the talk of the school hallways. It’s a simple song, but it oozes with low rider coolness.

“Chanka Chanka” is certainly the most Japanese song on From Tokyo with Love, especially with its yokai monster flavor. Thankfully, the quartet demonstrates all of their strengths perfectly in this one track. Rin’s rapping, Suzuka’s deep vocals, and the duo of Mizyu and Kanon’s hypnotic harmonies make this track a real album highlight. However, “Leave It All Behind” has the soul of a video game boss battle, thanks to its heavy bass and the in-your-face attitude the ladies bring to the mic.

Album closer “UTAGE HIKARU” ends the album with as crazy of a rave that Atarashii Gakko! can bring to the dance floor. It’s an odd choice to end the album, especially due to the fact that their recent singles “Sailor Sail On” and “One Heart” are nowhere to be found here. Then again, being weird is what Atarashii Gakko! does best, so perhaps it’s appropriate that they end the record with the same energy they marched in with.

From Tokyo with Love may be on the short side, but it’s a record that’s worthy of many repeat listens. Suzuka, Rin, Mizyu, and Kanon wear their influences on their sleeves alongside their student council armbands, with their nods being both electric and heartfelt. Atarashii Gakko! are bringing fun back into the pop world, all without sacrificing their intelligence and their unique style. They may no longer be the young kids they were when the group first started, but the self-proclaimed “Forever Sisters” have shown that even after eleven long and highlight-filled years, they’re still the leaders of that new school sound!