Girls Band Cry [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 13]

Girls Band Cry: A Rollercoaster of Emotions, Music, and Teenage Rebellion

When Girls Band Cry first aired in April 2024, it didn’t just introduce us to a band—it threw us headfirst into the chaotic, raw, and often painful journey of Nina Iseri, a 17-year-old girl trying to find her place in a world that seems determined to push her down. Produced by Toei Animation (yes, the same studio behind Dragon Ball and One Piece), this anime quickly became a standout of the season, blending 3D animation with a story that’s as much about music as it is about personal growth, friendship, and the harsh realities of chasing dreams.

The Premise: More Than Just a Band

Nina’s story begins with her moving to Tokyo, hoping to enroll in a prestigious university. But life has other plans. After getting lost on her first day, she stumbles into the world of music, forming the band Togenashi Togeari with Momoka, Subaru, Rupa, and Tomo. What follows is a whirlwind of emotions—struggles with identity, past traumas, and the relentless pressure of the music industry.

The anime’s strength lies in its characters. Nina, with her fiery temper and unwavering sense of justice, is both relatable and frustrating. She’s the kind of protagonist who makes mistakes, lashes out, and learns the hard way—something many viewers connected with. As one fan on MyAnimeList put it: “Nina’s journey isn’t about becoming perfect; it’s about realizing that imperfection is part of the process.”

The Music: A Love Letter to Rock

One thing fans unanimously praised was the music. From high-energy rock performances to emotional ballads, Girls Band Cry didn’t hold back. The soundtrack, produced in collaboration with Agehasprings and Universal Music Japan, became a highlight, with many viewers replaying the band’s live performances for days.

However, not everything was smooth sailing. The final episodes, particularly Episode 13, sparked heated debates. Some fans felt the ending was rushed, with Togenashi Togeari’s battle against the rival band Diamond Dust ending in a bittersweet defeat. As one Reddit user pointed out: “It’s realistic, but after 12 episodes of buildup, I wanted a bigger payoff.” Others, though, appreciated the realism—“Not every band makes it big overnight, and that’s okay.”

The Controversy: A Rushed Ending?

The finale’s pacing was the most divisive topic. Some viewers, like a commenter on MyAnimeList, argued: “The last two episodes crammed too much drama without enough resolution.” Others, however, defended the open-ended conclusion, seeing it as a setup for a potential second season.

One thing’s for sure: the emotional impact was undeniable. The scene where Nina finally confronts her past—revealing that she was bullied after trying to stand up for someone—hit hard. As one fan noted: “It’s heartbreaking but so real. Sometimes, doing the right thing backfires, and that’s life.”

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Music Lovers

Despite its flaws, Girls Band Cry is a gem. The animation, though 3D, is expressive and dynamic, proving that CGI can work beautifully in anime when done right. The characters feel alive, the music slaps, and the story, while messy at times, is packed with raw emotion.

As one fan perfectly summarized: “This isn’t just a band anime—it’s a story about fighting for your voice, even when the world tries to silence you.” Whether you’re here for the music, the drama, or Nina’s chaotic energy, Girls Band Cry delivers.

Now, Toei, where’s Season 2?

Rating: 8.5/10
“A rocky but unforgettable ride.”

What did you think of Girls Band Cry? Did the ending work for you, or did it leave you wanting more? Let’s discuss in the comments!