In a sharp departure from the album *In Your Brain* (2012)—which was heavily influenced by Funkadelic’s early work and tracks produced by Norman Whitfield (producer for Sly and the Family Stone and The Temptations)—this album marks a turning point, blending Northern Soul, doo-wop, rock ’n’ roll, psychedelic pop, and even film score-like elements, marking a turning point in her career as her style of blending these diverse musical influences truly came into its own.
From the sizzling funk number “Promises” (sample_1)—featuring piercing horns, psychedelic guitar, and Kelly Finnigan’s soulful vocals—to the sweet “La La La Love Me” (sample_2) with its Hammond organ and doo-wop-style harmonies, “Strange Love” (sample_3)—it feels like a milestone album for both Monophonics and the scene, perfectly capturing the mood of 2015, when the modern vintage soul boom was truly gaining momentum. (Original Japanese text by AYAM)