Kai M, now based in Hong Kong after years in Singapore’s night scene, has released his 5-track EP Electric. This project reimagines classic Japanese and Chinese songs through Kai’s distinctive electric guitar style, marked by emotive slides, vibrato, and subtle tremolo. Covering hits like Yutaka Ozaki’s “I Love You,” Teresa Teng and Ann Lewis’ “Goodbye My Love,” Southern All Stars’ “真夏の果実,” Wan Fang’s “新不了情,” and Toshinobu Kubota’s “Missing,” Kai offers a fresh take while honoring the originals. Likely the only artist to cover four of these tracks on electric guitar, Electric delivers a compelling listening experience.
Kai’s guitar work, paired with subtle keys, captures the essence of each song. “I played most of these live in Singapore, now reimagined in the studio,” Kai says. Each track respects the originals while showcasing his unique style.
Here’s a look at the tracks:
- “I Love You” (Yutaka Ozaki Cover, 1987): This Japanese hit opens with a warm, melodic tone. Kai’s emotive slides and vibrato bring fresh energy to Ozaki’s romantic classic while keeping its nostalgic core.
- “Goodbye My Love” (Teresa Teng/Ann Lewis Cover): A soulful track, likely the only electric guitar cover, uses Kai’s vibrant R&B-infused vibrato and tremolo to honor the original’s emotional weight with a creative twist.
- “真夏の果実” (Midsummer Fruit, Southern All Stars Cover, 1990): From the Japanese film Inamura Jane and covered by Jacky Cheung, this track features Kai’s melodic and precise guitar technique, highlighted by notable melodic guitar solos with fluid lines without compromising note choice. His slides and vibrato capture the song’s melancholic vibe.
- “新不了情” (Endless Love, Wan Fang Cover, 1993): A hit from the Hong Kong film C’est la vie, mon chéri, this likely one-of-a-kind guitar cover showcases notable melodic guitar solos with fluid lines without compromising note choice, using emotive slides and tremolo to echo the original’s romantic intensity, creating a lasting impact.
- “Missing” (Toshinobu Kubota Cover, 1986): Closing the EP, this introspective cover, likely the only of its kind, uses Kai’s gentle vibrato and tremolo to preserve the song’s melodic quality while adding a reflective depth.
Electric is a concise tribute that reimagines these classics with respect and originality. Kai’s blend of pop, rock, and soul creates tracks that resonate deeply, evoking memory and emotion. Stream Electric on Spotify and follow Kai M on Instagram for more.
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