NEW ARTIST FINDS: THE JAPANESE HOUSE

Using the same vocal effects that worked for Imogen Heap, The Japanese House comes to us from somewhere, and is presumably someone, because not much information about this project is available. We are given two tracks, both buzzing with soft, poppy warmth and stuttering bliss. 

“Still” is the track that compelled me to make the Imogen Heap comparison, because there is a heavy “Hide and Seek” vibe but with a lot more instrumentation. It’s a deceptively chill track that has a lot of strokes and brushes of, and I hate that I’m using this word, “epicness.” There is a slow moving crescendo towards the end that hits from all directions with shades of emotion, to a very lovely effect.

THE JAPANESE HOUSE - STILL

“Pools To Bathe In” is somewhat similar and less Imogen Heap-y. The acoustic guitar adds a folk touch to a somewhat glitched downtempo musing. Warm bass growls under snaps and glassy rimshots for a few bars before the guitar swoops back in seamlessly. The two styles don’t step on each other nor are they incongruous; a happy mish mash of what was perhaps two separate songs at one time. 

THE JAPANESE HOUSE - POOLS TO BATHE IN

I am both intrigued and annoyed by the lack of information about The Japanese House, but the forthcoming EP should shed a little more light on this interesting and promising project. It’s a warm blanket of teenage emotion and confusion, love and uncertainty, unbridled talent and keen craftsmanship.