Nao Yoshioka Releases 'Philly Soul Sessions Vol. 2' EP

Nao Yoshioka, the Japanese soul singer, is set to release her new EP 'Philly Soul Sessions Vol. 2' on December 12, 2025. This project captures live studio sessions in Philadelphia, a city with deep roots in soul and neo-soul music.

The EP includes four tracks recorded in one take, preserving the raw energy and spontaneity of the moment. 'Free as a Bird,' originally produced by Dutch producer Jarreau Vandal, is reimagined with a groovy, soulful live arrangement. The session video has surpassed 500,000 views on social media.

'Love Is What We Find' features a collaboration with Soulection producer JAEL, blending Latin-inspired rhythms with Yoshioka's vocals. Contributions from Jay Bratten and Treway Lambert add depth to the track. 'You Never Know' offers a different session arrangement from the album version, highlighted by Dai Miyazaki's emotive guitar solo.

The EP opens with 'Intro,' a piece used during Yoshioka's U.S. comeback live in January 2024. The recording features music director Irvin Washington, with mixing by Vidal Davis, known for his work with Jill Scott and Bilal.

'Philly Soul Sessions Vol. 2' precedes her next album, currently in progress. The EP is available for streaming and purchase globally.

Listen to 'Philly Soul Sessions Vol. 2' here.

Source: PR Times via The Orchard Japan