I was going to make “TSOP” a regular thing where I celebrate songs that have a connection to Philadelphia but I kind of forgot about it until now. “Boyish” just came on one of my playlists and it reminded me about my precious forgotten column. Please excuse the lack of grace with which I jump back into this.

 

“Boyish” is a dreamy indie pop song from the 2017 album Soft Sounds from Another Planet by Japanese Breakfast. The album was self-produced in their studio in Philadelphia. The drums, which play a slowed+reverbed take on the “Be My Baby” beat, evoke nostalgia for ’60s pop, which is a genre I spent most of my childhood immersed in, thanks to my parents. There are some tasty elements in the arrangement that keep the song fresh and interesting, such as the obligatory castanets as well as the harpsichord, far-away strings and backing vocals, and electric guitar.

 

The production and vibe of the track set the perfect tone for her vulnerable lyrics about unrequited love. Her lyrics are gripping and heartbreaking. In both of the choruses (the lyrics are different) she writes in a confessional way that is almost humorous but still devastating. The whole album is amazing, it’s one of my favorite indie pop records. It brings back a lot of sweet memories of college, and hanging out with my sister.