Kehlani has returned to the forefront of the R&B scene with the release of their fourth studio album, Crash.
By Ruby Brown
The album’s opening track, Groove Theory, begins with a gradual build-up, setting the stage for Kehlani’s powerful vocals to lead into a seductive beat and equally alluring lyrics. Next 2 U continues in a similar sonic vein, starting with an ominous, gritty sound paired with angelic, gospel-inspired vocals, before the track’s infectious and rhythmic lyrics come into focus.
Back in April, Kehlani dropped After Hours, the lead single and third track from the latest release. While the track is a success in its own right, boasting an impressive 30 million streams worldwide and 4.6 million in the US in its debut week, the new album maintains its appeal by delivering Kehlani’s trademark sound: soulful, hedonistic lyrics that resonate on both emotional and physical levels.
The likes of What I Want, 8 and Sucia, featuring Jill Scott and Young Miko, offer the most typical and tangible R&B sounds on the album, providing a refreshing take on queer affection and sensuality, a trademark embraced by both Kehlani and their following.
Moving away from the predominantly lustful tone that dominates the first half of the record, tracks like Crash and Better Not introduce a more alternative sound, characterised by country influenced guitar riffs. These tracks offer a timely reflection of the eclectic discography of the Oakland-born star, and the musical versatility that they possess.
Tears, featuring Omah Lay, stands out on the album with its laid-back, chilled vibe and deliciously smooth beats. The contrast between the upbeat rhythms and deeper lyrical themes adds a layer of complexity and curiosity, keeping you gripped on to Kehlani’s storytelling as they seamlessly transition into Vegas. The sultry, frisky lyrics about keeping a relationship secret while living a frivolous lifestyle symbolise the thrill and excitement of the risky and adventurous types of love that thematically recur throughout the record.
Distinctively, Deep evokes sounds akin to Tame Impala, featuring dreamy synths and robust riffs that immerse you in an almost psychedelic soundscape. As the song concludes, animated chants of the chorus overlay, creating an atmospheric and lighthearted feel that sustains itself throughout many of Crash’s hits.
However, the penultimate track on the album, Chapel, distinguishes itself as the sole poignant ballad, revealing Kehlani’s vulnerable and emotive artistry. In contrast, Lose My Wife presents a deceivingly slow, serenade-like track that juxtaposes itself by exploring themes of desire in the context of perilous relations. These two tracks contrast with each other, further emphasising the remarkable polarisation that lingers within Kehlani’s body of work so far.
On the whole, Crash not only showcases every subgenre Kehlani is renowned and loved for, but also presents an inspired—and much welcomed—exploration of queer love and intimacy. Beyond traditional love songs, the album delves into themes of desire, faithfulness, and longing with depth, creativity, and authenticity.
Crash is out now and you can check it out below.
