Emerging from Japan’s tech-assisted Vocaloid scene in 2012, Kenshi Yonezu ranks among the most eclectic creators in modern J-pop, thanks to his use of both skittery electronic elements and arena-ready rock melodies. His 2020 album STRAY SHEEP flexed his range considerably, dabbling in supple electro-funk alongside throwback R&B and brassy jazz flourishes on gems like “Kanden” and “Lemon.” While he has proven himself to be a smooth operator indeed when the music calls for it, Yonezu also shapeshifts mid-song on 2024’s “Garakuta – JUNK” and “RED OUT,” allowing each hairpin turn to take him into striking new territory. No wonder his music has appeared in numerous anime and other Japanese films, including his piano ballad “Chikyugi – Spinning Globe” in the end credits of Hayao Miyazaki’s swansong, The Boy and the Heron. And when he suddenly slows down to launch into near-operatic heights in the thick of 2022’s hectic “KICK BACK,” it somehow makes perfect sense.