Ten Pages

It’s an interesting coincidence that, in my opinion, the best J-pop vocalists right now are all Vsingers. To explain it briefly: a Vsinger is represented by a virtual avatar, eschewing the typical expectations of pop idol stardom to more closely control their image and protect their privacy. Hoshimachi Suisei, Madobe Rika, and Hoshimiya Toto have all released incredible albums that have elevated their respective corners of the pop landscape, and somunia is the most recent to have her turn. She’s long collaborated with producers Yaca and gaburyu (who is also a Vocaloid genius), but they’ve yet to lock in for a full-length together until ten pages. It’s a synthesis of all their respective styles, smashing Yaca’s club sensibilities together with gabu’s mangled hyperpop melodies. Somunia’s vocals effortlessly soar over the deconstructed dance beats, changing tempo and meeting the meter wherever it takes her. Similar to recent J-pop albums by groups like PAS TASTA and TEMPLIME, it takes the temperature on various internet-braided pop trends and, well, doesn’t make them easier to understand — but makes them fun to try getting your head around.