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Sakai Unveils New EP ‘Do You Like Me Now?’
- Melodrift Team
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Some records arrive with obvious singles. Others invite you into a world. Sakai's debut EP Do You Like Me Now? belongs firmly to the latter, offering four songs that reward patience, curiosity and repeat listens. Blending indie rock with soulful vocals, jazz inspired arrangements and subtle nods to Japanese musical heritage, the band create a debut that feels thoughtful without ever losing its emotional immediacy.
The standout "Orange Tree" perfectly captures that balance. Inspired by an eighth century Japanese poem and shaped by Marié Sakai's experience at a shamisen and koto recital, the track feels steeped in history while remaining unmistakably modern. The Hirajoshi scale gives the melody a haunting quality, while Sakai's flute adds a gentle elegance that enriches the song's meditation on love, loss and the beauty of impermanence. It is ambitious songwriting that never feels inaccessible.
Lead single "Out" shifts gears with restless energy, tackling existential anxiety through dynamic instrumentation and deeply personal lyricism. The emotional honesty
continues on "Wanted", where vulnerability is matched by beautifully restrained musicianship, particularly Conner Currie's expressive guitar harmonics. Together, the songs reveal a band more interested in emotional truth than easy hooks, allowing atmosphere and storytelling to carry equal weight.
By the time the title track arrives, Sakai have established a clear artistic identity. "Do You Like Me Now?" examines people pleasing and fractured self image with refreshing sincerity, supported by performances that feel cohesive rather than showy. Every member contributes meaningfully, resulting in arrangements that are rich with detail while remaining remarkably accessible.
For a debut EP, Do You Like Me Now? demonstrates impressive confidence and artistic ambition. Rather than following current trends, Sakai carve out their own space by embracing vulnerability, cultural influence and fearless musical exploration. It is an accomplished introduction that suggests this is only the beginning of a very exciting journey.
