Los Angeles — Kehlani, the R&B artist known for their soulful melodies and candid lyrics, has again caught the attention of the music world with their latest album, “Crash.” This release follows a period of intense personal and artistic growth for the singer, who has been vocally active in social issues, including the situation in Palestine. By embracing a new creative direction, Kehanli’s work continues to push the boundaries of conventional R&B, incorporating elements from various genres and reflecting a diverse set of influences.
The evolution of R&B over recent years has seen artists experiment beyond traditional sounds, a trend strongly embodied in Kehlani’s latest offering. “Crash” merges these classic R&B roots with unexpected musical twists, showcasing their mastery in blending styles. The album, comprising 13 tracks, varies in tone and texture, presenting a nuanced exploration of genre and emotion.
One standout element of “Crash” is its homage to different musical eras and styles. The opening track, “GrooveTheory,” nods to the mid-90s neo-soul group, setting the stage with a mix of early R&B stylings and a shift to bass-heavy electronic beats. This sets the precedent for an album that continually plays with musical transitions and thematic contrasts.
The singles “Next 2 U” and “After Hours” encapsulate the album’s range, from vibrant, synth-driven beats reminiscent of 80s R&B to rhythms infused with a modern pop sensibility. These tracks not only showcase Kehlai’s vocal versatility but also their ability to craft songs that are both reflective and forward-thinking.
As the album progresses, listeners encounter tracks like “What I Want” and “Sucia,” where Kehlani merges assertive lyrics with smooth, seductive production. These songs are interspersed with more introspective ballads such as “Crash” and “Better Not,” which incorporate guitar-forward, country-rock influences, demonstrating Kehlani’s adaptability and breadth as an artist.
“Crash” also delves into more club-ready sounds with tracks like “Tears,” an acid house and Afrobeats-inspired number, and “Villas,” highlighted by 80s synths. Both songs exemplify how Kehlani effectively balances the allure of dance music with deeper emotional undercurrents, a testament to their skill in evolving traditional R&B into something contemporary and globally resonant.
The album concludes with “Lose My Wife,” a track that blends 90s neo-soul rhythms with an unguarded lyrical approach, capturing the complexities of personal relationships amidst broader societal challenges. It acts as a cohesive end to an album that traverses a spectrum of human experiences — from desire and passion to vulnerability and introspection.
“Crash” not only marks a departure from Kehlani’s previous sound but also signals a new chapter in their career, one that dares to defy and redefine the parameters of genre. With this album, Kehlani continues to demonstrate why they remain a significant and influential figure in the evolving landscape of modern music, offering a soundtrack that is both uniquely personal and universally relatable. As Kehlani continues to chart this ambitious musical journey, “Crash” stands as a bold statement of artistic freedom and self-expression, resonating with a diverse audience looking for authenticity and innovation in music.