Mei Semones — Kurage

One of indie music’s most unique musicians reminds us of her capabilities.

Singer-songwriter Mei Semones released her first studio LP Animaru in 2025, which was received deservedly well by critics and audiences alike for its inventive genre combinations and lighthearted, fun atmosphere. Now, in 2026, she has released Kurage, her fourth EP and first project since last year’s debut album. Of the three tracks on the mini-album, two were previously released as singles, and feature guest performers alongside Mei Semones’ own vocals; the third, the title track, features her father, Don Semones, playing the euphonium.

Among the two features, the fit with British-Brazilian singer Liana Flores on the first track, “Koneko”, is probably the better-sounding, with the two vocalists trading parts with seamless smoothness. Semones herself is typically light and playful in her vocal deliveries, with fun adlibbing in a few places adding a compelling quirkiness to the project and improving the enjoyment of the overall listening experience. 

The instrumentals are typically unorthodox in a charming way, with laid-back grooves inspired by a multitude of genres and gentle, subtle production. The songs are free-flowing and silky, with a really fun experimental feel to some segments. Lyrically, the project is built on fairly straightforward imagery, with the hybrid of English and Japanese that is typical of Semones’ music – the writing mostly takes a back seat to the wonderful instrumental work and endearing vocals.

Overall, Kurage is a quick, but very enjoyable showing of Mei Semones’ ample musical talents – a collection of three solid tracks to add to her growing, extremely consistent and underrated discography. WIth this EP, Semones continues her very promising artistic trajectory – she has a very unique and defined artistic personality and style; moreover, it’s a style and personality that are very easy to enjoy. 

7.5/10