Debuting in 2019, Exile Tribe’s Battle Of Tokyo is one of the coolest projects developed by any entertainment company. It brings together the agency’s Jr.Exile groups under fictional guises in a futuristic battle royale. It’s a multimedia project, including videos, books and — of course — music. This week, the third chapter in the series is unveiled. Battle Of Tokyo: Code Of Jr.Exile gives us five new tracks. One new music video will premiere each day this week and I’ll offer my thoughts on each as they become available.

I love how — whenever they participate in a Battle Of Tokyo project — Fantastics stick to their bright, funky energy. Everyone else is puffing up their chests over heavy dance beats and these guys are shuffling to a nimble beat with colorful, party-starting energy. It’s a show of confidence that’s charming and effective.

Black Magic makes for a great sequel to 2021’s Perfect Magic, mining similar retro territory. I’m a sucker for its insistent rhythm guitar and stabs of exuberant brass. The song’s chanted hook is tons of fun, but Black Magic doesn’t skimp on the melody either. As with all of these Jr.Exile tracks, it sounds great played full blast in your car. Add a heaping dose of personality and you’ve got another highlight from the ever-reliable (and aptly named) Fantastics.

Grade: B+