Japanese Breakfast, the musical project of Michelle Zauner, delivered a magical, dreamy performance in Boston at MGM Music Hall that fused lush soundscapes with raw emotional songs. Playing to a packed venue, Zauner proved once again why her music continues to captivate fans around the world.
The Melancholy Tour is in support of new album For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women), which dropped in March via Dead Oceans. It’s a brilliant record that explores “the darker waves that roil within, the moody, fecund field of melancholy, long held to be the psychic state of poets on the verge of inspiration. The result is an artistic statement of purpose: A mature, intricate, contemplative work that conjures the romantic thrill of a gothic novel”, in the words of Zauner.
Opening the set with the beautiful “Here is Someone,” Michelle was sat inside a giant illuminated clam shell with guitar in hand and her band mates sitting around the makeshift campfire vibes. Setting the tone for a heartfelt melancholy night full of breathtaking visuals and stellar energy.
Their setlist spanned through much of the bands discography including songs from albums Jubilee, with standouts like “Be Sweet” and “Slide Tackle”. Longtime fans were also treated to songs from Soft Sounds from Another Planet like “Road Head” and “The Woman That Loves You” from Psychopomp, grounding the show with moments of vulnerability. The band played all of the songs from the new record For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women) except for “Little Girl”.
Visually, this show was one of the most breathtaking shows we’ve seen. The set design and lighting was beautifully done by Kat Borderud. It was a delicate balance of dreamy lighting and soft hues that complemented the emotional arcs of the music and really brought the whole melancholy vibe to fruition. Zauner’s banter between songs was heartfelt and funny, making the space feel intimate.
Japanese Breakfast’s show stood out for its sincerity, visual beauty, electric energy, and true artistry. They sure know how to put on such a magnificent show each time they come back to Boston. Be sure to catch them on tour in a city near you, you definitely don’t want to miss out on this tour. Check out tour dates here.
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Show photos by Erin Crowley
