THE KITES: “DRUNK IN JAPAN” SONG REVIEW

It’s amazing to see how The Kites, a group of young and dynamic individuals from Leeds, are making strides in the world of indie-pop music. With Joseph Staniforth as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Jake McBrinn on lead guitar, Elodie Parsons on bass, and Oliver Staniforth on drums, the band has a distinctive sound, and are highly influenced by the likes of Twenty-One Pilots & Stevie Wonder. Their journey began when the Staniforth brothers and Jake formed a close bond while studying together in secondary school, and later on, the trio met Elodie while attending a songwriter camp, which completed the band.

Their debut single, “Jaded,” released in 2022, was an instant hit, gaining widespread recognition and amassing over 550,000 plays on Spotify. This success continued with their debut EP, “POSTCODE,” released in 2023, which showcased the band’s artistic evolution and pushed them further into the limelight. The EP received critical acclaim and positive reviews from fans.

The Kites: Ollie Staniforth, Joseph Staniforth, Jake McBrinn & Elodie Parsons

Their most recent release, “Drunk in Japan,” displays the band’s unwavering commitment to producing pure indie-pop music that is high-energy, catchy, and characterized by its soaring vocals and irresistible melodies. The guitar work is one of the standout elements of the song, with its twangy and energetic tone that propels the song forward with an irresistible force. The guitar’s catchy melody is impossible to forget, leaving an indelible impression that lingers long after the song has ended. The combination of the guitar’s lively, upbeat energy and its memorable melody creates an infectious sound that’s hard not to get swept up in.

The chorus is particularly striking for its repetition of “Out there, drunk in Japan.” This phrase effectively captures the intangible yet palpable sensation of a night out after consuming alcohol, as it conveys the feeling of being lost in a fuzzy spiral, and serves to reinforce the song’s ability to evoke a sense of being lost in a new place with good company. The smooth and inviting vocals delivered by Joseph Staniforth further enhance the song’s upbeat vibe. The harmonious interplay between the musical and lyrical elements of the song contributes to the creation of a compelling and enjoyable experience.

While it may seem simple, the bass line provides a rock-solid foundation for the other elements of the song to build off of. Its low, steady rumble creates a sense of depth and power that perfectly complements the energetic guitar work. Moreover, the bass line is also quite groovy, adding an extra layer of intricacy to the song and making it even more enjoyable to listen to. Together, the bass and guitar create a dynamic interplay that’s at the heart of The Kites’ unique sound. 

The drum groove performed by Oliver Staniforth, is a masterclass in steady, rhythmic, and dynamic percussion. It provides a rock-solid backbone for the song, keeping the pace moving forward with an unwavering sense of momentum. What’s more, the drumming is never too overpowering, allowing the other elements of the song to shine through while still making its presence known. The interplay between the drums, guitar, and bass creates a dynamic and exhilarating sound that’s uniquely The Kites, cementing their position as one of the most exciting indie-pop bands on the scene today.

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