A radiant return: Nao finds strength in softness on her fourth album.

After a four-year pause, brought on in part by a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome, Nao returns with Jupiter — an album that feels more like a quiet triumph than a comeback announcement. Known for her featherlight, sky-high vocals and smooth blend of R&B, soul, and electronic textures, the London artist doesn’t reinvent the wheel here — but she doesn’t need to. Opener Wildflowers sets a breezy tone, its nimble bassline and clipped drums underlining a melody that floats effortlessly above the mix. There’s a newfound ease in her delivery, and the optimism in tracks like We All Win and Happy People feels hard-earned, never saccharine.

But Jupiter really lands in its more reflective moments. Elevate slinks along in a late-night groove, while Light Years builds slowly into a vocal showcase that reminds you exactly why Nao became a standout in the UK alt-R&B scene in the first place. There are no shock twists here — longtime fans will find comfort in the familiar shimmer of Nao’s sound. But behind that sheen is a deeper resilience. Jupiter doesn’t shout to be heard; it simply glows, quietly and confidently.