Up-and-coming 24-year old Colombian-American R&B singer Kali Uchis impresses on her soulful debut album, ‘Isolation.’

Colombian-American newcomer Kali Uchis has arrived!  The 24-year old R&B musician shows that she’s for real on her debut album, Isolation.  Unfortunately, Isolation was quietly released, clearly far behind the likes of Invasion of Privacy (Cardi B), in regards to buzz.  Regardless, the results are marvelous for Uchis.

“Miami”

“Body Language – Intro” kicks off Isolation in jazzy fashion, featuring a Latin jazz groove (think Bossa Nova).  After the tone is set, “Miami” successfully fuses soul with a dash of reggae.  “Miami” opts against the sleek, shimmering production of most urban contemporary music, favoring more of a vintage sound.  BIA provides a brief, but enjoyable rap, incorporating a dash of Spanish.

“Flight 22”

In addition to providing some vocals, Steve Lacy co-produces “Just A Stranger.” The third track from Isolation is groovy and continues the vintage script of the album without a hitch.  “Flight 22” slackens the pace, opting for lilting, six-eight balladry.  Uchis’ distinct voice sounds glorious on this throwback gem.  The tempo picks up on “Your Teeth in My Neck,” another record where the groove is infectious – simply irresistible.  Once more, Uchis taps into her Columbian roots, exhibiting mad personality.

“Tyrant”

“Word on the street you got hoes / I disappear like El Chapo.” Feisty lyric from Uchis, who’s joined by rising British R&B singer Jorja Smith on “Tyrant.” Don’t get it twisted though –Uchis is firmly in control, relinquishing only the third verse to Smith. After denouncing the ‘tyranny’of “Tyrant,” Kali has no issues proclaiming ‘she’s done’ on “Dead to Me.” Although the record is set in a minor key, and she’s clearly pissed off, “Dead to Me” is fun – quite enjoyable.

“Nuestro Planeta”

The Latin roots are in full effect on the exuberant “Nuestro Planeta,” among the crème de la crème of Isolation.  Though she gets a lift from Reykon, not to mention awesome production from The Rude Boyz, Uchis is firmly in command – the indisputable star. Vintage continues to be the modus operandi on “In My Dreams,” which fuses psychedelia, 80s, and alternative.  The keyboard work – the synths – is a big selling point.  The chorus is also quite catchy.

“After the Storm”

Following the chill, lush, neo-soul interlude “Gotta Get Up” (think Erykah Badu),“Tomorrow” retains the smoothness, backed by a potent groove.  Uchis sounds cool yet manages to pack a punch at the same time.  An impressive, two-part interlude, “Coming Home – Interlude” precedes the crowning achievement of Isolation, “After the Storm”. Produced by hip-hop jazz collective BADBADNOTGOOD, and featuring Bootsy Collins and Tyler, the Creator, “After the Storm” is a feel-good, 70s soul gem that just happened to arrive in 2018.

Retro is the middle name of penultimate gem “Feel Like a Fool,” save for the explicitness exhibited by Uchis.  Back when, the salty language wouldn’t fly. Still, the horns and strings are characteristic of the soul of old.  That soul keeps going strong on “Killer” which is ultimately a ‘killer’way to conclude Isolation.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, Kali Uchis delivers a compelling debut album with Isolation.  Vocally, she has a distinct instrument, and artistically, she’s chocked-full of personality.  Do the songs always ‘pop right out at you?’ Not necessarily, but Isolation is consistent, enjoyable and well-conceived. Kali has mad potential.

Gems: “Miami,” “Flight 22,” “Your Teeth in My Neck,” “Nuestro Planeta,” “After the Storm” & “Feel Like a Fool.”

Kali Uchis • Isolation • Virgin • Release: 4.6.18

Photo Credit: Virgin