Exploring the Vibrant Tapestry of SOFABED’s New Album

Sofabed is an experimental pop music duo based in Tokyo. Their sound is vibrant and nostalgic, characterized by a natural blend of elements such as jazz, contemporary music, and dub mixes that capture the essence of their style. They showcase classic songwriting reminiscent of artists like Radiohead and Wilco, ambitious arrangements similar to Japan’s Cornelius, and dynamic beats that evoke the work of Karim Riggins.

In 2024, the band released their second album “Megurikuru Mizu.” The English version, “Water that Comes and Goes,” was released on February 15, and we have a few words to share about it.

“Water that Comes and Goes” flows with almost liquid grace, with each track gently ebbing and flowing. The music is adorned with soft, distorted drums that pulse like the heartbeat of a tranquil stream, accompanied by lush strings that cascade elegantly, enveloping the listener in a warm embrace. Dubby echoes ripple throughout the soundscape, crafting an immersive experience reminiscent of a captivating film score.

You can feel the echoes of legendary artists like Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Tom Jobim woven into the fabric of the sound. Yet, there’s a refreshing modern twist—layered basslines pulse beneath the surface, while dreamy reverbs create an ethereal atmosphere that dances between warmth and nostalgia. The result is a harmonious blend that evokes a sense of longing and comfort, inviting listeners to drift away on a musical journey.

“Water that Comes and Goes” is an unpredictable and refreshing album that blends an eclectic variety of song forms. Its melodies and intricate rhythms create endlessly winding paths to explore, each time revealing more layers than the last.

Breathy tones oscillate in a glacially slow motion, lingering in full-bodied stillness as the pitches change gradually, inch by inch. This music appears to remain stationary, yet it feels as if it is always in motion. It sounds simple at first, but it is composed of countless sonic layers. This transportive drone highlights the depth of the organ, revealing its remarkable richness through patient breaths.

Take ‘Door,’ for example. It features a deliberate and stark arrangement at the beginning, with a strong emphasis on the lyrics. Musically, it mostly consists of three chords played in the lower registers. This track reminded me of Radiohead, especially their album “OK Computer,” during my first listen.

The next track, ‘Beach,’ embraces a water theme with a sea-inspired organ sound, electronic seagulls, and a continuous wave loop featured on the Spotty page. ‘A Poet of Rain—Reading by Yasuhiro Yotsumoto‘ is just that: an English-language reading of verses focused on the journey of a soul against the backdrop of rain and water.

The music flows through rich layers of sound that connect seamlessly, blending jazzy instrumentals with eerie found sounds and haunting vocals. Each carefully selected burst of sound combines to create impressionistic images that shed light on history. The beauty of the album reveals itself through its many layers and crisp textures, which collide and intertwine harmoniously.

Their music comes to life in earthy tones that manage to transport while staying effortlessly grounded. It’s nothing fancy, but it doesn’t need to be. Instead, it basks in the glow of simple melodies and tones that stretch for miles.

In conclusion, this album is not just a collection of songs; it is an artistic journey that invites listeners to explore the depths of sound and emotion. Each track serves as a chapter, revealing stories and experiences that resonate on both personal and historical levels. As the final notes fade away, the listener is left with a profound sense of connection, both to the music and to the narratives woven throughout. It’s a compelling reminder of the transformative power of sound and the rich tapestry it can create.