Multi-talented Mia Kelly is the Wellington-based force behind Japes. This newest single, Lighter Thief, takes us on another audio journey through their avant-garde world of sound and inspired minds-eye vision.

A tad more up-tempo from the previous track, Japes does put me in mind of Icelandic queen of the alternative synth-pop, Bjork. Not in timbre, as Mia has a more steady vocal than the Nordic legend, well-known for her tortured spirit vocal. Mia does engender in me visuals of endless night for months on end in windswept and dramatic ends of the Earth locations, introspective and pondering. And putting it down in words and musical form.

This number is subtle in its alt feel, with turned down yet insistent percussion anchoring it and bringing the synth and keys along nicely. There’s a really cool melody to the vocal too, which is delivered thoughtfully and in a clear soprano. It’s more of a cleanser of a tune than some of the other, more unique tracks on the Omen EP. That’s reflective of Mia‘s personal experiences during the development of the songs on the EP. Let Mia explain: “The idea of the song came from a silly little tune I wrote in my head while in the shower. I write like this a lot, and just repeat melodies over and over, with whatever thing I’m ruminating on that day. Lighter Thief is about reflection and moving on, knowing things will be okay again. I wrote the songs on Omen in a time of turmoil, and finished them in a period of healing, which I feel the song reflects.”

The track was co-produced between Mia and Bevan Smith, and the EP is out now. Japes has become well regarded on the Wellington live circuit. I’ve not been along, living out of town as I do, but I need to catch a show, as the visuals would be compelling, I suspect. It’s not what I would call Pop in any way, but it is very, very engaging.

This is highly thoughtful music for introverted souls. Listen to this in solitude, or in your own bubble at a show. Or whatever way makes you feel you can take in the special sounds Japes brings for your aural pleasure. Enjoy.