We approach ‘Big In Japan’ with a certain reverence. You see, the record is not your average release; it’s a slice of cathartic aural goodness crafted with purpose and meaning, a deep dive into Georgia Weber and the Sleeved Hearts’ expansive artistry. Oscillating between experimental flair and song-driven structures, ‘Big in Japan’ finds its foundational quality in the project’s unique blend of heartwarming folk matter and improvisational, free-form jazz language. The resulting listening experience is precious and intimate, with Weber’s soothing, luscious vocals delivering tender, dreamy lyricism with heightened softness.
If opener ‘Jo’ reveals the EP’s diverse character, follow-up ‘Kintsugi’ delves right into Georgia’s introspective songwriting, initiating a conceptual tale of love, loss and grief. The New York-based songstress’s vocal tone is particularly elegant and soothing, as she unpacks and reflects on the painful aspects of the human experience. A stirring, magnetic tale of emotional turbulence and faithful acceptance, ‘Big in Japan’ does a great job of pulling listeners into the project’s quirky, whimsical orbit.
‘Urashima Taro’ is one of our favourite episodes on the EP, thanks to its cinematic allure and poignant, minimalist livery. It’s also a striking example of the genre-less ethos behind Georgia Weber and the Sleeved Hearts. The track’s percussive intro is also notable. A talented bassist and vocalist, Weber is here joined by Kenji Herbert (Arooj Aftab, Yuhan Su) on guitar, and Nathan Ellman-Bell (Brass Against, Cat Torren Band) on drums.
Recommended! Discover ‘Big in Japan’ on Spotify:
