ena mori Explores Nostalgia and Growing Pains in New EP rOe

In a world where pop music often follows a formula, ena mori continues to carve her own lane—fearlessly experimenting, unapologetically herself, and never afraid to challenge expectations. The Japanese-Filipino singer-songwriter/producer has built a reputation for sonic adventurism, and her new EP, rOe, is no exception.

But unlike the explosive, maximalist energy of her 2022 full-length debut DON’T BLAME THE WILD ONE!, rOe takes a softer, more introspective turn. Across six beautifully crafted tracks, ena mori captures the bittersweet paradox of entering adulthood while still holding on to fragments of childhood wonder. It’s about moving forward while feeling a little stuck—a coming-of-age story told through delicate soundscapes and poetic lyrics.

“I wanted to explore my memories and how I see them now, through the eyes of an adult,” ena shares. “Maybe it’s longing for that innocent state of being—or maybe I’m just addicted to the comfort of nostalgia.”

A Sound Born from Small Rooms and Big Ideas

Co-produced with her long-time creative partner Tim Marquez, the EP balances whimsical innocence with quiet sophistication. The pair envisioned “microbe-like” sounds—organic, alive, and imperfect—layering string quartets, lo-fi guitar sketches, harps, nylon-string plucks, glitchy electronics, and whispery vocals.

Unlike her earlier collaborations that involved a wider creative circle, rOe was born in intimate settings. Tim handled production with precision, while Sam Marquez of One Click Straight mixed the tracks, and Emil Dela Rosa mastered them with a subtle touch that unified the record’s emotional tone.

Highlights from the Tracklist

“Trust Me” – Written with ena’s self-confessed limited guitar skills, proof that sometimes constraint fuels creativity.

“Portion Control” & “Heartache Generation” – Vulnerable yet catchy, blending pop with cross-genre influences.

“Cub” – The emotional closer, featuring the poignant line: “I know the consequence of life, oh what a life / but I don’t want to live in a world of lies.”

Why rOe Feels Different

If her debut was a wild, maximalist ride, rOe is a quiet rebellion—one that refuses to erase the child within. It’s dreamy, a little disoriented, and deeply personal, like memories you’re not sure are accurate but still feel vividly.

Whether you’ve been a fan since day one or you’re just discovering her, this EP shows a side of ena mori that’s both intimate and expansive—an artist growing, reflecting, and still daring to surprise.

rOe Tracklist:

rOe

Portion Control

Heartache Generation

Sink

Trust Me

Cub

Available now on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Entertainment and Offshore Music.