“RISE” by Joey Sachi

RISE, the debut EP from Joey Sachi in collaboration with the skilled producer AKINAT, whom he connected with in Sydney, Australia, is a confident introduction to an artist shaping a distinctive sound at the intersection of electronic, R&B, and introspective pop. Across four tracks, Sachi demonstrates an ability to balance emotion with precision, creating songs that are both intimate and polished. Each track contributes to a cohesive narrative, making the EP feel like a carefully mapped journey rather than just a collection of songs. The EP opens with “circuits,” a track that immediately establishes its tone. Playful yet deliberate, it pairs shimmering synths with rhythmic drive, creating a textured backdrop for Sachi’s warm and assured vocals. The song strikes a balance between control and spontaneity, reflecting an artist willing to experiment while keeping the listener grounded.

As an opener, “circuits” sets a high standard for the rest of the EP, blending technical skill with emotional accessibility. The middle tracks explore themes of growth, reflection, and resilience. Drawing on influences from 90s R&B and contemporary electronic music, Sachi navigates the tension between vulnerability and self-assurance. Each song is layered with thoughtful production choices that complement his lyrical focus on personal experience and emotional insight. The result is music that resonates on multiple levels, offering both sonic enjoyment and reflective depth. The EP closes with “7 seconds,” a minimalist and contemplative finale. Its restrained instrumentation allows Sachi’s vocals and lyrical themes to take center stage, leaving space for reflection and reinforcing the project's emotional throughline.

The track serves as a fitting conclusion, cementing RISE as a cohesive statement of artistic identity rather than just a debut effort. Recorded entirely in his Tokyo home studio and mixed by Tristan Hoogland, RISE demonstrates Joey Sachi’s ability to combine technical precision with expressive songwriting, while AKINAT’s production expertise helps shape immersive textures that add depth to Sachi’s introspective vision. The EP highlights a young artist confident in his craft, capable of translating personal reflection into engaging, layered music. With RISE, Sachi not only introduces himself to listeners but also establishes a strong foundation for continued growth, signaling a promising trajectory for his evolving career.