blue water road / Kehlani / April 29, 2022
- Joshua Yoo
- May 23, 2022
- 1 min read
Updated: Oct 22, 2022
Having built a musical identity firmly set in the romantic/sultry lane of R&B thus far, Kehlani is now in a much different period of their life, and her intention with their music seems to reflect this change. More conceptual and mature than ever before, ‘blue water road’ is perhaps the most fulfilling and refreshing body of work of their entire career.
The album embraces more thematic production as a whole, occasionally dabbling in throwback R&B styles (“wish i never”) and ornate instrumental passages (“altar”), and it consistently places Kehlani’s voice in a variety of emotional contexts compellingly. The vocal performances also contain a richer, more developed tone, confident in their delivery and fitting to the themes of growth and maturity as an artist.
It isn’t to say that there aren’t classic, steamy R&B cuts or musings on romantic sprees, which there are in quantity and quality. But even these moments are gratifyingly void of toxicity, raunchiness, and even men in general, which arguably add a more satisfying and thoughtful perspective to sultry tracks such as “more than i should” or “everything”.
Most of all, ‘blue water road’ exudes an overarching sense of peace that stems from its creator, and the feeling that they are the most in-tune with their thoughts, emotions, and lifestyle as they ever have been. It’s not only beautiful to listen to and experience, but also heartwarming and encouraging.
Highlight(s): more than i should, altar, wondering/wandering, everything, little story
Lowlight(s): get me started
SCORE: 7/10
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