Michelle Zauner, author of bestselling memoir Crying in H Mart, has released her fourth album as Japanese Breakfast. The indie rock record features mid-tempo tracks with vintage organ sounds and a wistful Americana vibe.
Produced by Blake Mills, the album boasts impressive instrumentation, including guest appearances from notable artists such as Jim Keltner and Jeff Bridges. However, two standout tracks, Orlando in Love and Mega Circuit, suggest Zauner’s exploration of different themes: elliptical pop about literature and sorrowful looks at modern masculinity.
While Zauner is capable of captivating listeners with her songwriting, the album often falls short due to its mellow tone, which doesn’t do justice to her exceptional writing skills. Despite big thematic ambitions, the record fails to deliver a cohesive and satisfying listening experience.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2025/mar/21/japanese-breakfast-for-melancholy-brunettes-and-sad-women-review-michelle-zauner-a-bit-too-tasteful