I have been in love with UMI’s work since Forest in the City (2022) came out. Although it pains me to say this, but I was grateful for Spotify for recommending UMI those days. I was fond of say im ur luv for it’s ability to sonically depicted butterflies-flutter-in-my-stomach feeling. A very particular vibe to catch, and delivered, to be honest.

Recently, UMI brought a new project called people stories. The ultimate theme that she brings is relatability. With 15 tracks and 44 minute-ish runtime, the album tells a diverse story of everyday optimism and spite. According to UMI, this effort is deliberate, “I wanted to be the storyteller, the vessel to express everyone’s stories,” she says through Out Now Magazine. She also added, “We all live very similar lives, same colors, slightly different hues… For me, learning to accept even the darkest colors of life was deeply healing and possible through relating to others.”

It takes an incredibly big heart and profound empathy to reflect on oneself’s experience and still capable of writing something that is comprehensible for general public. That, added with the proficiency of going through genres and sound to capture the proper vibe. UMI’s diverse background and environment set the material condition to be able to do so!

My favorite track is GROCERY STORE for it’s bouncy sound and relatable lyrics. Yet, I think the highlight of this album, MANGO STICKY RICE succeeded in encapsulating the album’s namesake. With her soft, airy, and soothing voice (thanks Tabia for the perfect description!), the song elevates the mundane optimism and spite in the album!

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people stories (2025)

by UMI

Label	: Epic Records
Language	: English and Japanese
Genre	: R&B, Neo-soul, and Alternative Pop