Psychopomp, the debut album by Japanese Breakfast, was released on April 1, 2016, and serves as a deeply personal and emotionally rich introduction to the artistic vision of Michelle Zauner. Blending dream pop, lo-fi, and indie rock, the album is an exploration of grief, memory, and self-discovery, crafted with both raw vulnerability and shimmering beauty.

Created during a period of immense personal loss following the death of Zauner's mother, Psychopomp channels pain into art, balancing heartache with moments of hope and catharsis. Tracks like "In Heaven" and "Everybody Wants to Love You" showcase Zauner's ability to juxtapose poignant lyrics with lush, melodic instrumentation, creating a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive.

The album's production, led by Zauner and Ned Eisenberg, features ethereal synths, jangly guitars, and dynamic shifts that add to its emotional complexity. Despite its brevity at just over 25 minutes, Psychopomp leaves a lasting impression, offering a poignant reflection on life’s fragility and the enduring power of love and connection.

Critically acclaimed for its honesty and innovation, Psychopomp established Japanese Breakfast as a compelling voice in indie music, paving the way for Zauner’s future successes and marking the start of a remarkable artistic journey.

Tracklist:

Side A:
A1. In Heaven
A2. The Woman That Loves You
A3. Rugged Country
A4. Everybody Wants To Love You!
A5. Psychopomp

Side B:
B1. Jane Cum
B2. Heft
B3. Moon On The Bath
B4. Triple 7