Ginger Root Unveils an Unexpected New Format with NYC Concert Influenced by City Pop - Atwood Magazine

      Ginger Root shines a light on the hidden treasures of his discography through three concerts in New York City, accompanied by a fun game called Spin That Wheel.

      Stream: “Only You” – Ginger Root

      An evening of city pop in the city that never sleeps.

      Although Google categorizes his genre as “soul indie,” Ginger Root’s music and style are rich with nods to Japanese city pop, a genre that gained traction in the '80s. This is particularly evident in tracks like “Over the Hill” and “Nisemono.” Some original pieces have a vibe reminiscent of Mac DeMarco or Boy Pablo, such as “Weather.” There’s also the project’s standout hit “Loretta,” which offers a catchy indie funk pop sound. Overall, Ginger Root exudes an upbeat, intricate, and colorful spirit.

      Following his stint opening for Japanese Breakfast, Ginger Root announced his fall tour, which includes three shows in New York. What set these concerts apart was the unique design of each setlist.

      “Tonight, no opener, we’re playing two back-to-back sets,” Ginger Root told the audience. “The first set consists of us performing the entire album of SHINBANGUMI from start to finish.”

      The term SHINBANGUMI translates to “new program” or “a new season of a show” in Japanese, and it tells the fictional tale of Ginger Root launching his own television station. As a mini-movie (or visual album for Beyoncé enthusiasts), it encapsulates “exactly how Ginger Root should sound and feel.”

      SHINBANGUMI – Ginger Root

      “In terms of instrumentation and musicality, it’s the first time that I felt very confident and comfortable with the composition,” Ginger Root mentioned in a press release. “On a personal note, I’m emerging from four years of writing, touring, and living as a different person; SHINBANGUMI serves as a platform to present my new self.”

      The band performed while the visual album was projected. After a brief intermission, the artist returned with a chance wheel, determining the rest of the setlist by spinning after each song.

      The frontman noted that this performance format differs from typical concerts, which is true. It introduced an element of fan engagement, as well as a playful nod to Wheel of Fortune and/or Japanese game shows.

      Ginger Root ‘SHINBANGUMI’ © David Gutel

      While a split set isn’t a completely new idea, as DIIV performed their Oshin Anniversary tour playing the album in its entirety before taking a break and returning for other hits, there are examples like The 1975’s last tour where they played an “opening” set focused on their latest album before coming back with a second set of fan favorites. It’s an effective approach, creating anticipation for the latter half of the concert when energy levels typically dip.

      Ginger Root’s wheel was filled with tracks selected by fans, which added excitement but may have sacrificed some of the narrative flow that other bands use to enhance their setlist. The appeal of a setlist, or at least a framework with interchangeable songs, is in crafting smooth or surprising transitions.

      Ginger Root ‘SHINBANGUMI’ © Cameron Lew

      However, for Ginger Root’s fans, this was a refreshing change.

      One audience member gasped upon spotting “Two Step” on the wheel, and during the voting between “Le Château” and “Belleza,” cheers erupted for the favored track.

      Considering his experience in headlining concerts, Ginger Root's greatest asset is undeniably his energy. He truly makes attendees feel like they’re part of something larger—turning it into an interactive, personal experience. And with each night’s setlist being different… it really is.

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