Macross 7

Macross 7 is an animated television series which aired from 1994 to 1995 as part of TBS’s Superhero Time block in Japan. It's part of the long-running Macross franchise, known for its perfect blend of mecha action, engaging narratives, pop music, and romance, which originated with the groundbreaking 1982 series, Super Dimension Fortress Macross. The show was developed by Studio Nue and animated by Ashi Productions.

The series mainly revolves around protagonist Basara Nekki, an eccentric young rocker who leads the band Fire Bomber, and the different challenges he and his crewmates encounter in their space odyssey. Basara operates voluntarily in the Macross 7 fleet's combat group, with his customized transforming mecha, which, in a fun twist from conventional mecha norms, he primarily uses to play his music in the middle of battles.

Macross 7’s story unfolds six years after the events of Macross Dynamite 7. The series is set across 49 episodes and digs further into the larger Macross universe, portraying its story about 35 years after the devastating Space War I, which was fought between Earth and a race of giant humanoid aliens known as the Zentradi. The plot focuses on a civilian expedition in the far reaches of the galaxy on the colonization fleet, known as Macross 7. When the fleet unexpectedly comes under sudden alien attack, the peaceful settlers are forced to arm themselves and respond in kind to fend off the strikes.

Following the tradition of mixing and matching disparate genre conventions, Macross 7 combines space opera elements with pop idol culture and mecha battles, all covered in a layer of rock and roll spirit. This concept helps create a show that stands out in the Macross series. Over the course of the narrative, viewers are introduced to a wide range of enchanting characters, each of whom brings depth to the storyline. The characters range from frustrated city leaders to skilled fighter pilots, all the way to the band mates of Fire Bomber.

On the surface level, Macross 7 often gets described as a sprawling space mecha show with strong rock music elements. However, beneath the vibrant animation, rocking tunes, and sci-fi spectacle, the show explores themes of pacifism, the struggle for cultural understanding, individual expression, and unity, weaving them deftly into the narrative. Visually and musically dazzling, the action-filled series delivers some iconic sequences, making it a memorable part of the Macross franchise.

In Macross 7, music plays a monumental role in the plot, almost acting as another character by itself—a proud hallmark of the wider Macross franchise. The rock band Fire Bomber, with Basara as its lead vocalist and guitarist, is central to most plotlines. Their powerful and captivating performances tie in perfectly with the narrative, forming a synchronistic bond between the stirring music and the story.

The animation style of Macross 7 has its unique charm. Despite being developed in the '90s, the captivating visuals, intricate character designs and distinct illustrative aesthetics of the show are pleasing to the eye even by today's standard. The animation is consistent and vivid, with awe-inspiring space sequences, detailed mecha designs, and lively concert scenes that emphasize the composite genre of the series.

For fans of epic space adventures, thrilling mecha battles, and rousing rock music, Macross 7 ticks all the boxes, giving viewers a ride worth remembering. Combining futuristic technology, the magic of music, and the depth of human emotions, the show captures various aspects of sci-fi storytelling while delivering an unforgettable and unique viewing experience. With its exceptional music, intense action sequences, a plethora of diverse characters, and some truly beautiful animation, Macross 7 rightfully holds its place as one of the most engaging and entertaining entries in the broader Macross series.