Originally from Oakland, Calif., Kehlani is an R&B artist who started off their career as a member of the pop group Poplyfe in 2011. In 2015, they were nominated for a Grammy for the commercial mixtape album “You Should be Here.” They later branched out to focusing on being an individual artist, releasing their debut solo album, “SweetSexySavage” in 2017, followed by “It Was Good until it Wasn’t” in 2020, and most recently, “Blue Water Road,” on April 29. Known for their songs that strike a dynamic between the upbeat characteristics of teen pop and the soulful, provocative tones of R&B that involve the exploration of identity and personal experiences, “Blue Water Road” marks a defining shift toward vulnerability and honesty through music.
The pandemic spurred Kehlani to undergo a spiritual process, which entailed sobriety and going out only for necessary obligations. The content of the album provides a deep dive into personal self-acceptance and furthering of spirituality, presenting itself in the soft tones of piano and guitar that invoke a soothing and meditative sensation. The choice to dilate the background accompanying music allows for their raw yet full voice to shine through, conveying warmth and closeness to listeners, as though they are having a candid conversation. In the album’s opener, “little story,” Kehlani grapples with their own shortcomings and failures, as well as the weight of being given second chances, accompanied by the fluid guitar that ascends to a steady, deep beat. The ninth track of the album, “altar,” showcases immense personal growth, as it takes on a new interpretation about the meaning of unconditional love though loss that offers a newfound sense of depth and maturity, noticeably departing from the surface level way they have illustrated love in previous albums and tracks. Other personal aspects of their life, such as intimacy, devotion and connection, are frequently mentioned as the album goes on, notably in “melt,” a striking yet gentle melody that handles the fragility of attachment with natural ease and grace.
“R&B roots are ever-present and create … a new voice … that feels both familiar yet fresh”
Past listeners of Kehlani will find familiarity in “up at night,” featuring Justin Bieber, a joyful and lighthearted track touching on the beauty of healthy obsession in relationships. It’s a new, reflective take on their personal journey and perspective with what it means to be in love. Another notable collaborative track on the album, “get me started,” featuring fellow R&B artist Syd, illustrates the waves that occur in a dying relationship in both chemistry and mutual intimacy. A present tone of frustration is seamlessly woven in through both voices and a muted beat. These elements show their shared struggle to diagnose the problem that changed their relationship and desire to remain together.
Several tracks throughout the album are considerably out of context when compared to the story-like ordering and content. However, they still tie in with the overall theme of self-improvement and reflection. In “any given sunday,” a seductive and lucrative ballad that details throwing dollar bills at a strip club, a profound sincerity and honesty remain constant. “More than I should,” one of the most hard-hitting and bass-heavy songs in the album, features Kehlani venting about the path of a friendship that veered into a guilt ridden yet carefree affair.
“Blue Water Road” is a candid, multifaceted and captivating album that showcases Kehlani’s remarkable path both as an artist and person. R&B roots are ever-present and create an enjoyable foundation for a new voice that feels both familiar yet fresh. Returning listeners and new ones alike will find aspects of the album to latch onto, whether it’s the unbridled and genuine vulnerability that many artists experience difficulty finding, or the strong vocals that adapt to embody a continuous journey. A perfect balance of harmony and puncturing honesty remained constant from the opening track to the finishing track, which made the overall listening experience captivating and stimulating.
It’s clear that Kehlani has entered a new chapter in their music career. “Blue Water Road” continues to prove their expanding versatility and unique abilities to connect and empathize with listeners. The album deserves five out of five stars for standout vocals, composition and overall memorable impact.
