Reading Time: 2 min read

4 out of 5 stars

Shawn Mendes, Shawn Mendes © IslandCanadian pop heartthrob Shawn Mendes follows up his stunning single “In My Blood with a second impressive single of 2018, “Lost in Japan.”

2018 just got a bit brighter for everybody.  Why? The lovable Shawn Mendes returns, and he has a new album on the horizon.  First, Mendes dropped the highly-anticipated “In My Blood.” He follows up the greatness with more greatness on single “Lost in Japan.”

First and foremost, Shawn Mendes continues to flaunt his prodigious pipes on “Lost in Japan.” The record itself is a stark contrast to “In My Blood.” Rather than employing a pop-rock sound, “Lost in Japan” has more pop-soul vibes.  This is a groovy, danceable joint, characterized by superb production comprised of cool synths, robust bass line, and tasteful piano.

Lisa Brown of Genius sums it up accurately, asserting the “influence [of Justin Timberlake] can be clearly be heard in Mendes’ vocals as he hits lingering, high notes on the final chorus line.” Speaking of the chorus, it’s by far the best part of the record. 

“Do you got plans tonight?
I’m a couple hundred miles from Japan, and I
I was thinking I could fly to your hotel tonight
‘Cause I-I-I can’t get you off my mind
Can’t get you off my mind
Can’t get you off my mind.”


Final Thoughts

As aforementioned, Shawn Mendes continues to flaunt his prodigious pipes on “Lost in Japan.” Perhaps his falsetto isn’t as flawless as some of his fellow pop males, but it’s a welcome contrast nonetheless. So is “Lost in Japan” overall.  It doesn’t possess quite the same depth as “In My Blood,” but it’s still a fantastic record.


Shawn Mendes • Shawn Mendes • Island • Release: 5.25.18
Photo Credit: Island

the musical hype

the musical hype (Brent Faulkner) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.