Hallucinogen still features big names like Arca and Kingdom, but now its central star is bolder, brighter and more mesmerizing than ever.
Her new EP, Hallucinogen, uses the gristle and guts of feeling as a thematic base for exploring new textures in music.
Its six tracks see the self-described former “proper shower singer” climbing ever further into the synthesized mist.
She has made the transition from buzz-worthy by demonstrating consistency and range, and there's a certainty in her presentation and artistic choices that leave an infinite number of lanes open.
In Hallucinogen, her voice takes lead, dictating when the music kicks in, cuts out, and shifts weight. A more experienced craftsman is wielding what worked before with more confidence and wisdom.
Hallucinogen is a fully-realized vision from an artist who's poised for a long and fruitful career.
Hallucinogen shows a powerful sense of purpose, the marks of an artist making confident decisions rather than relying on the talent of a strong voice.
'Rewind' is such an insidious bop I can't stand it.
When people ask me for examples of fabulous EPs, I usually start with FKA Twigz (if they can handle it) or Hallucinogen. The amount of ground that Kelela manages to cover in one EP is incredible. The songs are experimental but not unfamiliar. She creates intimacy by blending of electronic and R&B sounds and her confident vocals. Kelela is in total control, and all you have to do is sit back and let the music consume you. This EP feels ... read more
A distinctly atmospherically dark EP blending the ever effective styles of rnb and UK bass music with some flairs of electronic experimentation.
1 | A Message 3:51 | 90 |
2 | Gomenasai 3:28 | 86 |
3 | Rewind 3:58 | 92 |
4 | All the Way Down 4:28 | 89 |
5 | Hallucinogen 2:20 | 82 |
6 | The High 5:41 | 87 |
#8 | / | FACT Magazine |
#25 | / | SPIN |
#31 | / | Pitchfork |
#38 | / | Complex |
#47 | / | Treble |