Any Joy? - Sweet Nothings Any Joy?

The LP Sweet Nothings by Any Joy?, released on Takusan, brings together the debut of the new UK Japan collaboration as an analog long-player and presents itself as a carefully arranged pop and folk statement. The record is set for release in July 2026 and offers a sequence of songs ranging from gentle ballads to subtly psychedelic-tinged rock tracks. Any Joy? is a duo consisting of Liverpool singer-songwriter Ali Horn and Japanese multi-instrumentalist Ikko Shibayama; the two share songwriting and production duties, with Shibayama credited for arrangements and recording. Musically, the project weaves together elements of city pop, traditional British rock craftsmanship, folk, and Western-influenced psychedelia, creating a melodic yet uncluttered sonic space. Horns voice and the chamber-like arrangements define the projects style. The album was created together with musicians from the pairs extended circle, recorded partly in Japan and partly in the UK; advance releases such as the single What Could I Do? have already received radio attention and helped shape the projects reception. The LP places a strong emphasis on song structure and harmonic nuance and is aimed at listeners who appreciate a blend of catchy melodies and lovingly crafted arrangements.