Howl

Mei Semones returns with Howl, her second studio album and major-label debut for Verve Records/Interscope.

Singing in English and Japanese, Mei blends jazz, bossa nova, J-pop and rock into a distinctive sound shaped by influences including John Coltrane, João Gilberto, The Smashing Pumpkins and Nirvana.

Primarily recorded at New York’s Power Station with her touring string players and co-produced by Mei, Howl highlights her intricate guitar work and a more vulnerable, personal approach to songwriting. The album artwork, logo and hand-drawn creative elements were created by Mei’s mother, Seiko Semones. Following the acclaimed 2025 debut Animaru and extensive international touring, Howl marks a new chapter in Mei’s evolution as a songwriter, guitarist and arranger.