released: january 30th, 2026

genre: electronic

from: tokyo, japan (based in london, uk)

label: self-released

a few thoughts: singer, producer, violinist, and lovely human elle shimada has absolutely blown me away with her immersive and expansive follow-up to her 2022 album home ≠ location. lullaby for the river in my body is a masterful 14-track album, including punchy and eclectic compositions, utterly stunning from start to finish. the album opens with two gorgeous piano-led pieces, “chapter one ii lullaby for the river in my body” and “tender” with joe armon-jones. the latter of the two tracks is especially powerful. elle’s gentle, light voice, combined with joe’s rhythmic, expressive compositions, feels like a warm embrace. the jittery electronica of “her side of the story” is another beautiful moment, while the groove and beat on “his side of the story” with jitwam is a real highlight for me. elle’s gorgeous violin composition is lovely, while the cacophonous energy of “freedom” is so intense, with wailing saxophone melodies and abrasive, thumping drumming. the intricate drumming and catchy groove of “chapter ii awakening of the river in my body” featuring loner muaka sets the tone for the second chapter of this incredibly dense project. the synth leads on “resolute” are overwhelming, while the punk-esque energy of “red river” is incredible. elle’s vocals power through, venting about state, colonial violence and genocide on a disorienting and electric track. the drumming on “answered prayers” is electric, with an incredible bassline that is groovy, complementing the gorgeous synth and violin-led melody. “p***y power politics” featuring pookie is an incredible dance track, celebrating matriarchy. “girl sized dreams” featuring a striking verse from legzdina closes the album with a powerful, immersive composition, with fast-paced, drum n bas inspired drumming. death to the patriarchy, indeed. i’m genuinely blown away by lullaby for the river in my body, a riveting, memorable body of work that touches on so many sonic influences, with stunning vocals and violin compositions throughout.

the album: