Chris Martin, a reporter for the prestigious British music magazine NME, was currently getting a severe earful from his editor-in-chief.
"Listen here, Martin. Enfants Terribles’ new single just hit number one in America again. Their previous tracks are climbing back up the charts, too. Why aren't you writing an article about them? This isn't like you."
"I am writing it... haha..."
Chris Martin gave an awkward laugh, trying to deflect the editor’s shouting.
It was true that his pace had slowed significantly lately, but he had a valid excuse. All of this was because of their new song, 'Basket Case,' which had absolutely detonated on the US Billboard charts.
Even now, while listening to the editor’s rant, he had 'Basket Case' playing in one ear. For the past two weeks, he had been working while listening to nothing but Enfants Terribles.
For a music journalist, it was only natural for efficiency to drop when the music was simply too good to ignore.
"You used to be in the field too, Editor, so you should understand. When a song is this good, I have to analyze it thoroughly so the article doesn't get torn apart. You saw how much heat that junior reporter took for the 'Heal the World' review last time."
"And it takes you two weeks? For an album with a running time of barely ten minutes?"
"You know 'Talk Tonight' and 'Half the World Away' are also absolute masterpieces."
Chris Martin rattled off his excuses one after another. They sounded like nonsense, but since even the B-sides of the single were of a quality that could be called masterpieces—offering a bold new direction for music—the editor had nothing left to say.
"Fine, I get it. Just go and secure an interview with Enfants Terribles."
"What?? Me??"
"What’s the problem? You said you received a letter from them and even have their phone number, right?"
It wasn't that Chris Martin lacked a connection with Enfants Terribles. He had been writing about them since their early days in Japan, and because of his consistent support, he had even received a thank-you letter from the band.
To him, their 'Viva la Vida' was the masterpiece of the century. He was certain that once the distribution agreement with TV Tokyo ended and the song was released globally, Enfants Terribles would conquer the Billboard charts once again.
I still need to finish this review, though...
He needed to wrap up his stagnant work quickly. He had been the first to discover them for the UK market, and since the British music scene tended to be heavily influenced by critics, the public held exceptionally high standards.
Though at this point, everyone will listen to them even if I don't write a word.
[Enfants Terribles’ second single can only be described as a musical innovation. It is an essential listen for any fan of the band.
The reason is that these rascals, who have consistently shouted about optimism and self-affirmation, have delivered an autobiographical track filled with raw self-reflection. Even as they set new trends, they are evolving in real-time.
In particular, Hide’s 'Basket Case' transcends the autobiographical to represent the anxiety of a younger generation facing an uncertain future, born from the wealth gap following the wave of neoliberalism. What is most surprising is that despite the heavier theme, they haven't lost their signature touch: a killer melody and a chorus that invites the entire world to sing along.]
.
.
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[This album allows us to glimpse the challenging spirit of Enfants Terribles as they strive to grow beyond simple delinquents and become the true 'icons' of an era.]
"Enfants Terribles has definitely grown. The themes of their songs have become much heavier than before."
Chris Martin sipped the last bit of Americano from his cup and submitted the article to the editor. As he did, he glanced at the reviews in other magazines on the company newsstand—specifically, the articles written by journalists who had ignored him when he first championed Enfants Terribles.
['Talk Tonight' and 'Half the World Away' can be called quintessentially British music!]
He burst out laughing. Nationalistic pandering? Who still sells out for nationalism these days? The concept of 'quintessentially British music' was nothing more than a convenient fiction.
"Anyway, I have to do this interview..."
The band was notorious for avoiding the press. It was only natural, considering they were the type of people who would beat up a reporter if given the chance.
"Just in case... I should send a letter..."
Chris was 'old school.' He believed a handwritten letter could convey a sincerity that a text message never could. He knew he was being overly sentimental, but he didn't see it as a crime; in fact, he considered that sentimentality an asset for a music journalist.
[Dear Hide,
First, I want to sincerely congratulate you on reaching number one on the Billboard charts. Having followed your journey since your days in Japan, I feel as overjoyed as if it were my own success.
.
.
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I have many questions regarding 'Basket Case,' particularly concerning the lyrics. I would like to request an interview to discuss the background of the song and your state of mind while writing it.]
He sent the letter, though he didn't truly expect a reply. They were global superstars now.
[Dear Martin,
I've been enjoying your excellent reviews. We'll be heading to the UK soon, so let's meet then.]
Chris Martin’s eyes widened as he read the response. The unbelievable had actually happened.
"Huh...? How did this actually work...?"
Furthermore, Enfants Terribles, who had been touring exclusively in America, had just announced they were coming to the UK. Ah... perhaps he should put in for his vacation days now?
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