Albums to watch

WINK

CHAI

WINK

Third album of experimental pop from the quartet based in Nagoya, Japan

ADM rating[?]

7.6

Label
Sub Pop
UK Release date
21/05/2021
US Release date
21/05/2021
  1. 9.0 |   Gigwise

    One of the most life-affirming albums in recent history
    Read Review

  2. 8.0 |   Loud And Quiet

    WINK is endearing, but it’s not Kawaii; it’s all analogue R&B and garage punk with a rap verse. It’s a bold move forward in their movement, which candidly champions people on their own terms
    Read Review

  3. 8.0 |   NME

    The Japanese four-piece return with their smoothest, most comforting record yet, serving up ‘80s-tinged guitar pop and even a soothing lullaby
    Read Review

  4. 8.0 |   The Skinny

    CHAI's new album takes some unexpected turns, bringing new ideas into their kaleidoscopic sound
    Read Review

  5. 8.0 |   Exclaim

    Totally original, completely unselfconscious and wonderfully catchy, WINK is one of those rare albums that you can throw on anytime and let it guide you on the journey it has laid out before you
    Read Review

  6. 8.0 |   The Line Of Best Fit

    An album full of calming energy, with vibes to soothe the soul and the mind, and put a smile on your face
    Read Review

  7. 8.0 |   All Music

    The only CHAI fans whose mileage may vary are those who need to hear the sound of guitars to be happy, otherwise there's no reason for anyone not to embrace this pop gem just as tightly as they did the band's first two albums
    Read Review

  8. 8.0 |   The Quietus

    It's a record that builds on everything they’ve done before, understanding their strengths together as a group and then growing something more immersive and insightful from it – all while remaining deliciously joyful
    Read Review

  9. 7.9 |   Beats Per Minute

    WINK is simply the warmest, most open way they’ve chosen to engage in that battle yet. To say the least, that’s saying something
    Read Review

  10. 7.8 |   Paste Magazine

    The Japanese four-piece pare down their production, with wonderful results
    Read Review

  11. 7.5 |   Pitchfork

    The omnivorous Japanese band’s Sub Pop debut exudes a newfound sense of serenity, even as they remain committed to exuberant self-love
    Read Review

  12. 7.5 |   Spectrum Culture

    The third album by Japan’s queens of alt-kawaii is unexpectedly sweet and sultry, if lacking a little of their usual spark
    Read Review

  13. 7.0 |   Crack

    WINK is their most homely record, and the most surprising. CHAI’s raw energy has been dialled back just a little, revealing a new level of nuance in their songwriting
    Read Review

  14. 7.0 |   Clash

    A dazzling burst towards personal and creative freedom
    Read Review

  15. 7.0 |   DIY

    Sonically, they’re testing out a whole new palette
    Read Review

  16. 7.0 |   Under The Radar

    There are signs of maturity and mellowing afoot on WINK, but the sounds and inspirations are unmistakably CHAI being themselves
    Read Review


blog comments powered by Disqus

Watch it

Roll over video for more options

Hear it

Latest Reviews

More reviews