Introduction to Michelle Zauner

Michelle Zauner, the driving force behind the indie-pop band Japanese Breakfast and acclaimed author of the memoir Crying in H Mart, emphasizes the significance of storytelling in her music. Following the success of their 2021 album Jubilee, which garnered Grammy nominations, Zauner is channeling her artistic vision into her latest work.

Artistic Intentions for ‘For Melancholy Brunettes (and Sad Women)’

Zauner articulated her desire to craft something “honest and interesting and new and unexpected” with the release of their new album, For Melancholy Brunettes (and Sad Women). To maintain her creative integrity, she rebuffed her record label’s suggestion to produce short clips for the single “Mega Circuit,” opting instead for a traditional music video that conveyed a narrative.

“I’m not really interested in making garbage,” she stated, reinforcing her commitment to storytelling through her art.

The ‘Mega Circuit’ Music Video

The music video for “Mega Circuit” features Zauner in a unique scenario, simulating an adolescent boy’s life, which serves as a commentary on masculinity and the inherent violence in societal norms. This choice not only showcases her vision but also highlights her ability to address complex social themes through her artistry.

Album Overview and Themes

For Melancholy Brunettes (and Sad Women) distinguishes itself with its myriad literary and mythological references, presenting characters caught in intricate predicaments. The album, named after a story from John Cheever’s The World of Apples, unfolds in a tone that leans towards melancholy. Zauner has crafted a “creepy” record characterized by dissonant chords, differing significantly from the vibrant feel of Jubilee.

Upcoming Performances and Tour

Japanese Breakfast is set to perform at Coachella on April 12 and April 19, followed by an international tour starting April 23. Zauner has expressed enthusiasm about curating a setlist that highlights both the quieter and upbeat tracks from her evolving discography.

Insights on the Creative Process

On Dealing with Success

When addressing the pressure to replicate the success of Jubilee, Zauner noted the peculiar nature of media narratives surrounding her new album. “It’s so funny because this has been a major question in this release cycle that’s never been asked of me before,” she remarked, emphasizing that her focus was not on striving for larger commercial success but rather on creating a meaningful project.

Collaborating with Producer Blake Mills

Zauner sought out producer Blake Mills for his extensive experience across various artists, noting, “I wanted to work with someone that had a history… and also an exceptional guitar player.” The collaborative effort emphasizes the album’s strong guitar-centric sound.

Studio Experience Influence

This album marks her first recorded in a formal studio environment, which introduced a new level of pressure but also enhanced audio quality. Zauner described it as akin to the difference between shooting on digital versus film, where intention and performance become paramount.

Thematic Exploration in Lyrics

Embodiment of Male Narrators

Zauner often writes from male perspectives, using this approach to explore the inner workings of masculine narratives. “I think I like to do that because it’s my way of maybe trying to experience compassion for someone who has hurt me,” she explained.

Incorporating Mythology into Music

The album also weaves in mythological references, where deities exhibit flaws and make grave mistakes. Zauner mentioned a track called “Leda,” which tells a violent story about power and its consequences, as a poignant example of this thematic depth.

Creative Control in Music Videos

Zauner’s decision to direct her music videos roots from necessity and evolved into a passion for visual storytelling that complements her music. She expressed that her creative vision is incomplete without bringing a visual component to her work, making music videos an integral part of her artistic expression.

Anticipation for Coachella and Future Projects

Regarding her upcoming Coachella set, Zauner is excited about the shorter performance format, allowing her to blend tracks across her four albums. Collaborating closely with creative director Kat Borderud, they plan to feature theatrical elements that reflect the narrative essence of her music, aiming for a visually captivating experience.

Collaboration on Film Music

Zauner was also recently involved in composing a song for Celine Song’s film Materialists, showcasing her versatility as an artist. She expressed her admiration for Song, emphasizing the romantic yet intelligent tone the song was meant to convey.