The latest installment in the Gundam franchise, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, has surprised fans by featuring a new version of TM Network’s iconic song “Beyond the Time” as an insert song in its 11th episode. This exciting development has sparked considerable buzz among both Gundam and TM Network enthusiasts, highlighting the enduring appeal of the classic track and its connection to the Gundam universe.
A Blast from the Past: “Beyond the Time” Returns
Originally released on March 5, 1988, “Beyond the Time (Beyond the Möbius Sky)” served as the theme song for the animated film Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack. Performed by the popular Japanese band TM Network, the song quickly became a hit, cementing its place in anime music history. Now, nearly four decades later, a reimagined version of this beloved track has found its way into Gundam GQuuuuuuX, much to the delight of fans.
The 11th episode of Gundam GQuuuuuuX, broadcast on June 17, 2025, featured the surprise insert song, sending waves of nostalgia and excitement through the Gundam community. The updated versions, titled “BEYOND THE TIME (Beyond the Moebius Universe) -2025 Version-” and “BEYOND THE TIME (Beyond the Moebius Universe) -2025 Short Edit-,” are set to be distributed across various music platforms, ensuring that fans can easily access and enjoy the revitalized classic.
Adding to the excitement, the distribution jacket will feature an illustration of Amuro Ray and Char Aznable by Yasuomi Umetsu, the same artwork used for the original 1988 release, bridging the gap between the past and present.
What is Gundam GQuuuuuuX?
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX (pronounced “G-Kwu-X”) is a Japanese anime television series co-produced by Sunrise and Studio Khara. Premiering on April 9, 2025, it is the sixteenth mainline installment in the Gundam franchise and the first full series set in the Universal Century timeline since Mobile Suit Victory Gundam, albeit in an alternate version. The series is directed by Kazuya Tsurumaki and written by Yoji Enokido and Hideaki Anno, featuring character designs by Take and mechanical designs by Ikuto Yamashita.
Story Overview
The series unfolds in an alternate Universal Century timeline where Char Aznable seizes the RX-78-02 White Gundam during his assault on Side 7, renaming it the “gMS-α Red Gundam.” This pivotal event drastically alters the course of the One Year War, leading to Zeon’s victory. However, Char and the Red Gundam mysteriously disappear, prompting a search by Zeon forces.
Key Characters
- Amate Yuzuriha: A high school student living in the Side 6 space colony Izuma, drawn into the world of illegal mobile suit dueling known as Clan Battle. She pilots the gMS-Ω GQuuuuuuX under the name “Machu.”
- Nyaan: A war refugee from Side 2 who becomes involved with Amate. She also pilots the gMS-Ω GQuuuuuuX when Amate is unavailable and later pilots the gMS-κ GFreD.
- Xavier Olivette: A Zeon pilot sent to capture the Red Gundam. He pilots the gMS-Ω GQuuuuuuX, a prototype Gundam intended for Newtype pilots.
Music and Themes
The series features an opening theme, “Plazma,” performed by Kenshi Yonezu, and an ending theme, “Mō Dō Natte mo Ii ya” (“I Don’t Care Anymore”), performed by Hoshimachi Suisei. Additional insert songs, including “Yoru Ni Saku” (“Bloom in the Night”), “Midnight Reflection,” “Kienai” (“Afterimage”), and “Halo,” add depth and emotion to the narrative.
TM Network: Pioneers of Japanese Electronic Pop
TM Network is a highly influential Japanese band formed in 1983. Known for their innovative blend of electronic pop, rock, and dance music, the group achieved massive success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. TM Network’s core members include:
- Tetsuya Komuro: The band’s leader, composer, keyboardist, and producer. Komuro is a prominent figure in Japanese pop music, having produced numerous hit songs for other artists as well.
- Takashi Utsunomiya: The lead vocalist of TM Network, known for his distinctive voice and energetic stage presence.
- Naoto Kine: The guitarist and composer, contributing to the band’s diverse sound.
Key Achievements and Influence
TM Network’s impact on the Japanese music scene is undeniable. They are credited with pioneering the use of synthesizers and electronic instruments in mainstream pop music, paving the way for future generations of artists. Some of their most notable achievements include:
- Numerous hit singles and albums, achieving top positions on the Japanese charts.
- Contributing theme songs to popular anime series, including City Hunter and Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack.
- Inspiring countless artists with their innovative sound and production techniques.
Discography Highlights
TM Network boasts an extensive discography, including twelve studio albums, numerous compilations, and live recordings. Some of their most acclaimed works include:
- Rainbow Rainbow (1984)
- Childhood’s End (1985)
- Gorilla (1986)
- Self Control (1987)
- Humansystem (1987)
- Carol ~A Day in a Girl’s Life 1991~ (1988)
- Rhythm Red (1990)
- Expo (1991)
“Beyond The Time” – A Gundam Anthem
“Beyond The Time (Beyond The Möbius Sky)” holds a special place in the hearts of Gundam fans. As the theme song for Char’s Counterattack, it perfectly captured the film’s epic scope and emotional depth. The song’s soaring melodies and poignant lyrics resonated with audiences, becoming synonymous with the Gundam franchise.
The song speaks of transcending limitations and challenging destiny, mirroring the themes of war, sacrifice, and the search for understanding that permeate the Gundam universe. Its inclusion in Gundam GQuuuuuuX not only pays homage to the franchise’s history but also enriches the new series with a touch of timeless appeal.
Gundam and Music: A Symbiotic Relationship
Music has always been an integral part of the Gundam experience. From the iconic opening themes to the emotional insert songs, the franchise has a rich musical history that spans decades. Gundam’s soundtracks often feature a diverse range of genres, from rock and pop to classical and electronic, reflecting the series’ multifaceted themes and characters.
Memorable Gundam Themes
Over the years, numerous Gundam theme songs have become classics in their own right. Some of the most memorable include:
- “Tobe! Gundam” (Mobile Suit Gundam)
- “Zeta – Toki wo Koete” (Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam)
- “Anime ja Nai – Yume o Wasureta Furui Chikyujin yo” (Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ)
- “Stand Up to the Victory” (Mobile Suit Victory Gundam)
- “Flying in the Sky” (Mobile Fighter G Gundam)
- “Just Communication” (Mobile Suit Gundam Wing)
- “Dreams” (After War Gundam X)
- “Invoke” (Mobile Suit Gundam SEED)
- “Ignited” (Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny)
The Impact of Music on Gundam
Music plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional impact of Gundam stories. It sets the tone for battle sequences, underscores character relationships, and amplifies the themes of war, peace, and human connection. A well-placed theme song can elevate a Gundam series from a simple mecha anime to a powerful and unforgettable experience.
The return of “Beyond the Time” in Gundam GQuuuuuuX exemplifies the enduring power of music in the Gundam universe. It serves as a reminder of the franchise’s rich history while also injecting new life into a beloved classic, creating a memorable moment for fans old and new.
Reception and Fan Reactions
The announcement of the new version of “Beyond the Time” has been met with overwhelmingly positive reactions from fans. Many have expressed their excitement and nostalgia, praising the series for honoring its roots while also embracing innovation.
- Nostalgia: Long-time Gundam fans have expressed a deep sense of nostalgia, reminiscing about their first experiences with Char’s Counterattack and the impact of “Beyond the Time” on their love for the franchise.
- Excitement: Newcomers to the Gundam universe have also expressed excitement, eager to discover the original song and its connection to the series’ history.
- Appreciation: Many fans have praised the series’ creators for their attention to detail and their commitment to honoring the legacy of Gundam.
The inclusion of “Beyond the Time” in Gundam GQuuuuuuX is a testament to the enduring appeal of both the Gundam franchise and TM Network’s music. It is a celebration of the past and a promise of exciting things to come, ensuring that the legacy of Gundam continues to thrive for generations to come.
