Since breaking out in 2018, Japanese four-piece CHAI have been associated with explosive joy. At their live shows, identical twins Mana (lead vocals and keys) and Kana (guitar), drummer Yuna, and bassist-lyricist Yuuki have become known for buoyant displays of eclectic and clever songwriting, impressive musicianship, matching outfits, delightful choreography, and sheer relief. Their third, full-length LP and first for Sub Pop, WINK, available May 21, contains CHAI’s mellowest and most minimal music, and also their most affecting and exciting songwriting by far. Watch the Booksmart-inspired video for “Nobody Knows We Are Fun” below: At the core of their music, CHAI have upheld a stated mission to deconstruct the standards of beauty and cuteness that can be so oppressive in Japan. Following ...