The 24 year old Colombian-American singer Kali Uchis debuted her first full album titled Isolation, and she’s already proven to be a truly talented artist.
Very rarely can people enjoy an album in its entirety, but Isolation immediately feels like a natural progression of storytelling through a soothing ambiance. From the first beat in the introductory track “Body Language”, to the soulful and whimsical “Flight 22” Uchis provides a direction in her music. Filled with heavy influences in R&B, jazz, soul and even pop, the songwriter has consistently evolving vibe to her album that you can’t help but be curious about – and enjoy in its full capacity.
“Your Teeth In My Neck” embraces an upbeat pop track that makes for a strong summer-esque theme to offer another side to the singer. Where she additionally succeeds is her ability to provide seamless production and instrumentals that are aesthetically pleasing with her trademark softer vocals that makes everything by Uchis the equivalent of a musical joyride. “Dead To Me” almost evokes an 80’s theme that appears as a possible nod to certain decade influences or the smooth 70’s appeal of “After The Storm” featuring a brilliant collaboration with Tyler, the Creator as if it were envisioned as a vintage sunset jam.
One of the most noteworthy in an album full of passion is the careless “In My Dreams” where the sound matches the ‘dream’ image like a head in the clouds feel-good song that is conversely very self aware of problematic situations. As a follow up, the interlude “Gotta Get Up” has a slow-burn hungover outlook on staying oblivious – a reminder of a dream’s longevity in a necessary musical transition. Yet another interlude by Uchis titled “Coming Home” is split between a soul-pop tone and her other R&B traits by blending both genres with the utmost ease.
“Feel Like A Fool” is a prime example of yet another genre in her album and is most likely inspired by her respectable appreciation for jazz. Throughout the course of Isolation the mesmerizing jazz direction can be found as if it deserves to be heard in a dim-lit, smoke filled bar with a crowd that appreciates every possible inclusion of musical ability. Uchis has attributes to both her songs and voice that can occasionally remind you of musical greats who are each distinctly different like Amy Winehouse, Lana Del Rey or SZA – but it doesn’t distract from the fact that she has a sense of undeniable individuality and authenticity.
After only one official album, Uchis is a definitive juggernaut of musicality to be reckoned with. Her ability to integrate several genres and tell stories of hardships or triumphs makes the singer someone who will soon become a prominent presence in music. Whether she has a saxophone- filled jazz sound behind her sultry vocal ability or a futuristic journey of R&B pop with a spanish twist, there is seemingly nothing she can’t do. Not only is isolation a perfect introductory album to show her impressive range, but from beginning to end – it’s without a doubt a stunning body of work worth listening to on repeat.
