Vibes are everything until vibes mean nothing. Streaming services are overrun by playlists based purely on musical vapor and designed by algorithms. People are encouraged to chill out or take a break while vaguely listening to songs that fall under the generic rubric of “lo-fi beats.” It’s music that means nothing and says nothing. The problem with all of that? People deserve to relax to good music! I personally like blissed-out electronic tunes that pull from both pop and ambient roots in equal measure. It’s OK for your mind to be engaged by high-quality art that also calms you down.
Which is exactly why I enjoy the new album by Tei Shi.
Her fourth independent release, Make Believe I Make Believe, delivers thoughtful singer-songwriter fare fused with an imaginative edge. We’re talking ‘00s dream pop, ‘90s radio-friendly trip-hop, and ‘80s sophistipop. This ten-track project offers up smart and sassy lyrics that she then filters through the lens of contemplative introversion. It readily calls to mind a fusion of Lhasa de Sela, Nilufer Yanya, Cate Le Bon, and Everything But the Girl.
Tei Shi gives us exemplary talent with a strong track flow that carries you along and holds you close. She possesses a keen penchant for well-crafted beats and loops powered by twinkling keys and sultry synth swells. Jazzy guitar chords weave in and out of the mix, often accompanied by just enough crunch for some occasional aural texture. Her breathy soprano dances with tasteful harmonies while ample minor key arrangements convey plenty of moodiness without tipping into gothic cliches.
Those elements could have easily devolved into all vibes and no substance.
Instead, we’re graced with artistic integrity that shows teeth amidst hefty production. Electronic influences abound, as standouts such as “Drop Dead,” “Monton,” and “Iris” feature percussion-forward and rhythm-centric ideas. While the record is replete with plenty of mid-tempo grooves, nothing ever sounds alike or feels mushy in the ears. Favorite tracks like “222 (con Loyal Lobos)” and “Aphrodite” provide playful slow jam energy that blurs the line between the dance floor and bedroom. Through it all, her lyrics often carry the songs, as she talks about romance, fresh starts, and painful journeys with strength.
From the jump, Make Believe I Make Believe asks the listener to pay attention. Tei Shi is making art here. Yes, you can put the album on in the background while doing schoolwork, cleaning the house, reading a book, or doomscrolling. However, these songs deserve your ears on high alert. You need to focus on the nuances pulsing throughout, whether it’s the tender wordplay, electronic swooshes, or clever instrumentation. Come for the vibes, but stay for the craft.