Japanese Breakfast’s “Jubilee” is a record that expresses happiness and tenacity, which is a new course for Zauner. Unlike previous albums, which were dedicated to music’s power to console the grieving, this LP is a lively, melodic dance record. The first track entitled “Paprika” marks a cheerful and bright start as the listeners are embraced by hope and magic. Some of its lyrical subject matters may be rather thematic while others will be more personal; it appears that Zauner, not only experiments with pop and shoegaze elements but also does it quite successfully. Considering such songs as “Be Sweet” and “Kokomo, IN”, one cannot but note that she is great at doing both, energy and thoughtful reflection. Going back to meaning it is a message that “Jubilee” is not only an album, but also the call to look at the world through joyful eyes. The fact that Zauner has leveled up as an artist is very much clear, making this album such a joyous and provocative.
