The Asian-American band’s fourth single grows into a stirring and emotional triumph
Since emerging earlier this year with their debut single ‘Golden’, Austin Asian-American indie rock outfit Maru Haru have been characterised by the sheer scope and variety of their sound, using orchestral, electronic, and folk styles to evoke a wide range of emotions and and tones from a sound that feels as expansive as anything you’re likely to hear anytime soon.
The band’s latest single ‘To The Strongest’ is one that exemplifies this sense of deftness and nuance that the band possess, thematically unfolding as a powerful and love letter to those who walk proudly in their truest colors as well as an apology to those who didn’t receive love sooner, especially in regards to issues like self-homophobia and cultural repression. This makes for a deeply stirring and resonating listening experience that is amplified by the soaring orchestral instrumentation and the poignant vocals of James Tabata, someone who has every facet of regret and emotion etched all over his voice throughout the track. There is a real sense of liberation and catharsis within the sound, as it takes you on a powerful journey that sticks to you and leaves a memorable mark on you as a listener.
