Ginger Root’s new album, SHINBANGUMI, marks a vibrant and confident chapter for the California-based artist Cameron Lew. Blending the nostalgic vibes of Japanese City Pop with smooth, soulful grooves he describes as “aggressive elevator soul,” Lew crafts a unique sonic experience that feels both whimsical and polished. The album, which translates to “new program” in Japanese, reflects Lew’s growth as a musician and person after four years of touring, writing, and personal transformation.
The album’s lead single, “No Problems,” showcases this shift in direction, offering a breezy yet intricate sound that highlights Lew’s comfort with his musical identity. Tracks like “All Night” and “There Was a Time” maintain the album’s retro charm while integrating modern elements, making the project feel fresh yet familiar. This is Lew’s first full-length release on Ghostly International, and it seems he has embraced a more expansive and confident creative approach.
In SHINBANGUMI, Lew balances the playful and the personal, crafting an album that feels like a nod to television themes and variety shows from the ‘80s while also capturing his current artistic voice. Fans of Ginger Root will find this project to be his most cohesive and ambitious to date, blending his characteristic charm with a newfound depth. Check it out below:
Rating 9/10 – EXCELLENT Album