Exile the Second, a pop-music band based in Japan, recently released a teaser music video for the group’s upcoming single, “Route 66.”
In case you’re wondering, the song bears no resemblance to the Bobby Troup-written classic of the same title.
This video uploaded to YouTube isn’t the full video, either, but a teaser of about 90 seconds.
Below is a behind-the-scenes look of the production. I’m not sure how close to the real Route 66 the shoot was, but it clearly was staged in the Mojave Desert. You’ll also see more crazy stuntwork with cars and pickups.
You also can hear the film crew gasp when one of the group’s singers takes a nasty-looking but harmless tumble during a stunt.
Exile the Second’s “Route 66” single is slated to be released Sept. 27, according to the band’s website.
What’s notable about the video is it was directed by Dave Meyers, who has helmed acclaimed music videos by Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande and John Legend.
More from Billboard magazine:
For “Route 66,” Meyers intended to create a video that embodies a story and draws viewers in, making them want to go there because it looks like fun. Setting up Exile the Second’s boisterous “bad boy” image against the barren landscape of the iconic American highway, the video captures the essence of the exhilarating dance number through the rollicking, speedy visuals.
“American music was why we got into singing and dancing in the first place,” says leader Kenchi Tachibana. “We thought this song in particular should be shot in the States, which is why we made it happen in L.A. I think the chemistry worked out great!”
I hadn’t heard of Exile the Second before, but Japanese music listeners certainly have. According to a discography, the group has boasted in Japan a No. 1 album, two No. 1 singles and three other singles in the top 10.
(Screen-capture image of Exile the Second from its “Route 66” music video)