Raven (studio album) by Kelela

It's rare to get an album cover that looks so close to the overall sound of the record. Raven uses murky synths, prominent drums and slightly hazy vocals to build the feelings of being submerged in cold water, of empty cavernous spaces and quiet times after dark. It's an album that sees Kelela evoke so much without really revealing anything, for how much I like the tracks here I don't think I've ever really paid any attention to the lyrics. Instead her voice consistently fills the gaps in these minimal tracks and allows a variety of sounds to gel together with the same vibe. Closure is a good example of this, the track starts with a brief repeating melody which seamlessly gives way to slow drumming and then a dull bass. This type of flow of sounds happens constantly on Raven, not just on tracks but also between them, it's just such a satisfying listen. It only seems appropriate for these sounds to eventually circle back around as closer 'Far Away' becomes an even more ethereal version of opener 'Washed Away', these tracks almost feel like an easing in and out of the dark and atmospheric sounds you'll find between them and it's the cohesion of these sounds that make it stand out so much as such a complete record.

I really admire Kelela for continuing to release music and seeming to do it her way and at her own pace. 'Raven' is a deep, emotive and expressive collection of dance and electronic tracks that got me moving and in the feels both at the same time.

“Raven” finds a more consistent atmosphere. The production is lush and encompassing. The deep electronic sound pairs perfectly with Kelela’s voice. The richness it brings makes her vocals sound fuller of emotion. “On the Run” perfects this with emotional vocal exercises smoothly bouncing off of the heavy percussion. The downside of this approach is the lack of track distinctness. The songs sound extremely similar and blend into each other. While pleasant, I don’t think I could tell anything after “Bruises” apart. A lovely atmospheric blend.

86

Kelela had already made a strong sensation with the release of "Take Me Apart" placing her as one of the new Alternative Rnb and Uk Bass stars, but "Raven" is a consecration of a whole new dimension. On 62 minutes, Kelela plunges us into a futuristic and synthetic adventure, filled with dark and piercing emotions, complex feelings »

Key songs : Contact / Raven / Bruise / Happy Ending

Other ratings :
- Take Me Apart (2017) 85
- Cut 4 Me (2013) 77
- Hallucinogen (2015) 75

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