Photo: James France
Japes, the project of Melbourne-based producer, musician, and songwriter Mia Kelly, who hails from Alexandra, brings a unique blend of gothic electronic music with their EP Omen. Drawing inspiration from the term “jape” a phrase used by Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones, which means to jest or mock, Japes subverts the playful connotation with a profound and introspective sound.
Released by the Tamaki Makaurau label Sun Return, Omen delves into themes of loss, anxiety, and withdrawal, showcasing a depth far removed from any lightheartedness. The EP represents a significant step forward for Japes, building on their experiences performing guitar and synth with the Wellington-based dream fuzz group Mirror Ritual, a formative influence in their artistic development.
The titular track Omen, captivates with its enchanting vocal layers, intricate poetry, grainy bass, and unexpected musical shifts.
Doom impresses with its creative percussion, evoking the experimental spirit of Radiohead's album In Rainbows, leading listeners through an eerie tunnel of electronica.
Lighter Thief offers a softer, reflective electronic sound, portraying a sense of absolution.
A standout track on the EP is Process, which resonates deeply with its haunting opening and introspective lyrics. The juxtaposition of Jape's pure vocals against the rich bass line and Riley Dick’s evocative drumming creates a powerful sense of hope amidst the darker instrumentation.
Bevan Smith, known for his work with Glass Vaults and Introverted Dancefloor, plays a crucial role in the EP’s production, co-producing, mixing, and mastering the album with Japes, thanks to support from NZ on Air Music’s New Music Development fund.
Despite its dark themes, Omen emerges as a hopeful and enriching record, featuring inventive field recordings that infuse the music with vibrant energy. Japes’ Omen is a thoughtful and evocative release, marking Japes continued evolution as a compelling electronic artist.
https://japesss.bandcamp.com/track/omen
