Japanese Breakfast
For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)
Dead Oceans
Michelle Zauner took time to consider her follow up to the exuberance of Jubilee. On that album, Michelle explored upbeat themes and dance beats while staying true to their chamber pop roots. For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women) is something of a return to the gothy moodiness of their earlier work. The songs are introspective with lush arrangements. This is the first Japanese Breakfast album to be recorded in a proper studio instead of bedrooms and improvised spaces.
The album title is taken from a line in “Orlando in Love.” The song reflects on the title character’s longing and preference for sad women. “Mega Circuit” is the most upbeat song on the album, with a catchy instrumental hook. “Picture Window” has a groovy rhythm track that’s almost cheerful. Michelle duets with Jeff Bridges (yes, the actor) on “Men in Bars.” The slow-burn country-ish ballad stands out on the album for the awkward blend of voices. Bridges’s world weary tenor doesn’t really blend well with Michelle’s voice. Maybe that awkwardness is appropriate for a song about a failed relationship.
All the relationships explored are messed up to various degrees. Any woman living through these sorts of relationships would be sad or melancholic with good reason.
