Japanese Breakfast Performs “On Melancholy Hill” at Coachella
Japanese Breakfast Covers Gorillaz’s "On Melancholy Hill" at Coachella 2025: A Moment of Melodic Magic
In a sun-soaked Saturday at Coachella 2025, Michelle Zauner and her experimental pop project, Japanese Breakfast, took the stage at the Outdoor Theatre and delivered a performance that interlaced nostalgia with innovative artistry. Lifting the spirits of festival-goers, Zauner’s band seamlessly transitioned from their own emotive catalog to cover the iconic Gorillaz track "On Melancholy Hill," much to the delight of an energetic crowd.
This surprise cover coincided perfectly with the promotion of their newly released album, For Melancholy Brunettes (and sad women), which dropped just weeks earlier on March 21st, via Dead Oceans. The album features Zauner’s signature blend of introspective lyrics and vibrant soundscapes, and none exemplified this more than their spirited rendition of the Gorillaz classic.
With Christabel Lin, their tour mate, accompanying on electric violin to reinterpret the song’s iconic melody, the performance blossomed into a breathtaking culmination of artistry. The synergy onstage only intensified when Ginger Root, the evening’s opening act, joined in to wrap up this moment of heartfelt homage. Their collaboration sparked a wave of unity among fans, bridging the collective yearning for connection that the festival so often amplifies.
Japanese Breakfast’s set was a well-crafted array of 11 songs, mixing beloved fan favorites like “Road Head” and “Be Sweet” alongside evocative singles from their latest album, including “Orlando in Love” and “Mega Circuit.” As the sun began to set, Zauner’s ethereal vocals floated over the crowd, manifesting the spirit of the festival—joy intertwined with melancholy.
The setlist captured the essence of Japanese Breakfast: an intoxicating blend of pop brilliance and deeply personal storytelling. Highlights included tracks that invoked reflective moods while also inviting listeners to dance, creating a soundtrack that resonated with the ambience of Coachella.
As the festival wears on, Japanese Breakfast remains a standout act, successfully melding the rich tapestry of influences from their new album with a reverence for the legends that came before them. “On Melancholy Hill,” in the hands of Zauner and crew, was both a beautiful tribute and a testament to the timelessness of great music—reminding audiences that darkness often gives way to brightness, especially when shared in a live setting.
For fans eager to witness the full performance, you can catch it online here. As For Melancholy Brunettes (and sad women) continues to captivate audiences, Japanese Breakfast hits the road across North America, Oceania, Europe, and the UK until September. For those looking to get in on the action, tickets are available here.
In a festival known for its surprises, Zauner and her crew delivered a refreshing reminder that music’s power is in its ability to evoke feeling—a perfect encapsulation of Coachella 2025’s spirit.
