Chime

Released in 2019, Chime stands as a definitive statement of sumika's 'attic rock' philosophy - music that feels handcrafted and intimate despite its often grand, orchestral scale. Following the massive success of their early singles, this album solidified their position in the J-rock landscape by leaning further into diverse arrangements, incorporating elements of jazz, funk, and classical pop. The tracklist includes several high-profile tie-ins, such as 'Fiction' (Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku) and 'Fanfare' (I Want to Eat Your Pancreas), which helped the album reach a broad audience. Unlike many of their peers who lean into angst or high-gain distortion, sumika focuses on harmonic complexity and rhythmic playfulness. The album is notable for its 19-track breadth, acting as a comprehensive showcase of the band's versatility, from high-energy power-pop to delicate, piano-led ballads. It remains a high-water mark for the band's ability to blend commercial appeal with sophisticated musicianship.