Hana

Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s seventh studio album, “Hana,” was released on 2 June 2023, through Cooking Vinyl. Produced by Ed Harcourt, this album marks the third collaboration between Ellis-Bextor and Harcourt, following “Wanderlust” (2014) and “Familia” (2016). Inspired by a trip to Japan in early 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, Ellis-Bextor sought to create a fantastical world for the album, exploring themes of optimism, adventure, and mortality.

The album features singles such as “Breaking the Circle,” “Everything Is Sweet,” and “Lost in the Sunshine.” Reviewers praised the album’s individuality and found it to be a fitting addition to Ellis-Bextor’s discography. Despite mixed opinions on her continued collaboration with Harcourt, the album received acclaim for its boldness and creativity.

Delving into the background and development, Ellis-Bextor’s journey to Japan, initially prompted by family circumstances, became pivotal in shaping the album’s concept. The Japanese term “Hana,” translating to “flower” or “blossom,” symbolises the album’s thematic essence.

Regarding its composition, “Hana” encompasses a diverse range of tracks, blending synth-driven sounds with influences from various musical eras. Tracks like “A Thousand Orchids,” “Breaking the Circle,” and “Until the Wheels Fall Off” reflect Ellis-Bextor’s introspective lyricism and eclectic musical arrangements.

Promoted through singles and music videos, “Hana” received critical acclaim upon its release. Reviewers lauded its experimental nature, although some noted a slight lack of cohesion in its pacing.

Personnel involved in the album’s creation include musicians such as Richard Jones, Jackson Ellis-Leach, and Seton Daunt, alongside producer Ed Harcourt. The visual aspect of the album was crafted by Michael Nash Associates and Laura Lewis, with photography by Sophie Ellis-Bextor herself.

“Hana” achieved commercial success, charting in various regions including the UK, where it reached number eight on the UK Albums Chart.