KIWANUKA

Beautiful

Groovy, easy to listen to, great voice

Fantastic album! A fresh take on classic rock and soul sounds, with great production and introspective lyrics. Personally, this album really meant a lot to me in 2020, with it’s themes of separation, loss, a sense of doom, racial injustice (including the words of the late great John Lewis), but ultimately a sense of hope and perseverance. I still keep coming back to it, too.

Excellent

Top marks for the haunting sample of the Lost Cosmonaut in Final Days. If it's true, it's one of the saddest things I've ever heard.

Love in first song. Need to wait to finish whole album, but already feel like 4 or 5. Never heard of this and I am pleasantly surprised and I love bathing in these retro guitars and instrumentation and his voice... Will skip my list for few days just to repeat this....and gonna call my alternative radio station to ask them what the hell guys, why dont you play some of this??

wonderful listen. WIll add to my rotation. Calming voice

great top to bottom

Really liked it, want the LP to play it at home

You ain’t the problem- Lively and groovy opener👍 Rolling- Guitar more heavily introduced in this track, v catchy 👍 I’ve been dazed- Smooth transition into slower, more wistful track Piano joint- Intro fine, song proper is beautiful and laid back👍 Another human being- Interlude like, with beautiful harp and leading into next song Living in denial-bop👍 Hero- amazing guitar work👍 Hard to say goodbye- Not substantial enough for its runtime Final days- great melody into interlude Solid ground- This is great, especially when the instrumentation kicks in👍 Light- atmospheric closing track but doesn’t do much for me This is an excellent album, as well as working really well as an album 5/5

richtig richtig geil

Great album, message and vibes

Piano GOOD

A Classic

Very good and surprising

Good

wow, i really loved this album so much. i tried to look up if he's touring and he's not. maybe one of my new favorite albums.

First song is awesome! I loved this album best one I have listened to since joining

A stone cold masterpiece. Sounds timeless yet relevant.

Pretty good and funky

phenomenal. soul so thick you could eat it with a spoon

It's like Zero 7, the Gorillaz, and Pink Floyd had a baby.

Loved it

This was great! Would listen again.

8/6 lounged

1st track is a banger, excellent album

Kind of an odd contemporary from across the pond to "Awaken, My Love" in a way. I enjoyed every moment of this.

Definitivt en femma

Really good, big suprise for me

4.5 stars, beautiful albums. Upbeat stuff has Beck vibes, slower stuff Hozier or Sam Smith. Pleasant listen all the way through but standouts are "You Ain't the Problem", "Rolling", "Light"

Michael K is the best

Beautiful music

This one really took me by surprised. My experience with the newest albums on this list has been pretty negative so far. The album cover also didn't look too promising to me and I didn't like the beginning of the first track too much either... but the sheer quality of this record pushed those preconceptions and first impressions straight out the window. This is a wonderful album full of feeling and delicate beauty. After the first spin, I had to give it a second spin free from negative preconceptions and loved it. Now I'm listening to his 2016 record and loving that one too.

Never would have shown up in my music wheel house, but I am so glad it did. Immediately favorited it and downloaded it for later.

I had never heard of this album but I definitely enjoyed it and am going to listen to it again.

Love

Well that was lovely. Soulful, intricate and elegant.

nice

Intense, rich voice

Kiwanuka é incrível. Esse álbum rivaliza com Love & Hate sobre qual é a melhor obra desse monstro contemporâneo.

This is one of the most enjoyable new albums that I've heard in a while. I guess if I had to categorize it, I'd call it psychedelic soul. You can definitely hear influences of Pink Floyd alongside Marvin Gaye and the Beatles here. Kiwanika's voice is beautiful on this album and the songwriting is strong as well as the production. This album has been on repeat for a few days now and I can't wait to check out the rest of his discography.

Slaps

Amazing

That was a fantastic album.

Really enjoyed it, maybe just in a generous mood today, but it was quite good.

This was completely unexpected and utterly delightful. Michael Kiwanuka seems like the British answer to contemporary American artists like Gary Clark Jr. and Leon Bridges and I'm not mad at that. The musicianship is top-notch, the songwriting is excellent, and the production quality is fantastic. I have nothing negative to say. Everything about this album was enjoyable.

This is my favorite in a while! Wow this was so good. I loved how intoxicating the music and guitar parts were. So beautiful and tragically underrated.

Never heard of this guy, but absolutely loved the sound and album.

Liked the album, very groovy rhythms and vocals

Brilliant

I really enjoyed this album and artist! I will be listening to him again.

I am shooketh

Bon j'ai liké plus de la moitié des titres ça part sur un 5.

A comprehensive, intriguing, soulful, masterpiece? I don't know a masterpiece when I hear it but this might be one. It gave me a feeling of awe as I listened, like I was consuming something far bigger than myself. That is thanks in part to the power of his voice and the elegant use of the instruments and backing vocals. Everything feels big and bold. A really wonderful album; give me more Kiwanuka!

Reminds me of Leon bridges

Well done sir

This is album is so sooo beautiful! The combination of soul and avant-garde is downright heavenly!

What a pleasant surprise, I have read about him but never listened to an album before. Today I listened to this album three times. And shared it with a bunch of people as well.

De los mejores descubrimientos.. en años!

wow! a new refreshing sound!

I loved this album that was both so enjoyable and so meaningful to listen to.

I didn't know what to expect here, but it was splendid! There was a sublime flow to the tracks and almost every track just grabbed me and pulled me in...some kind of funky, some kind of jazzy, some nice slow jam. It kept me interested in hearing what would come next.

What an absolute treat. Fantastic. FANTASTIC!

Fantastically Beautiful

Well, well, well, this was a pleasant surprise. I had been aware of Michael Kiwanuka but I was expecting this to be a soppy great wet lettuce of an album. I had assumed he peddled watered-down mainstream "soul" which would be none of my business. How wrong I was. Google tells me it is Danger Mouse produced which explains the epic panoramic production. There's more than a bit of Bill Withers buried in the album's DNA but it is still very much its own thing. It's modern soul on a grand scale and I will shortly be purchasing a copy, this one is a keeper. Well done 1,001 Albums Generator, a big thumbs up for you.

Absolutely loved. Soulful, reminded me a bit of Leon Bridges for the vibe

Don’t hesitate Time heals the pain You ain’t the problem

Masterpiece

gorgeoussss timeless lovely

Thought that this was interesting a nd a great listen all the way through. Will definitely be going back.

So dope.

This album is a gem! Hero and You Ain't the problem are so damn good. could listen to this one all day.

Beautiful album. Absolutely beautiful.

Beautiful album

Top

Kiwanuka is a modern classic with a modern version of soul that is a natural successor of the music created by sous legends like Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. The arrangements are fabulous and the production is great.

Gorgeous orchestration with space for powerful vocals and interesting production accents

Accomplished brilliance.

Мед и шоколадное молоко

Silky voice. This album drips w Danger Mouse. Good listening.

really cool. reminded me a lot of Khruangbin. faves: Piano Joint, You aint the problem, living in denial Rating: 7.7/10

rounding up from 3.7

Its hard to think of a genre more deserving of a revival than the great psychedelic soul of the late 60s and 70s - and Kiwanuka absolutely nails it, while making it feel his own. It’s both classic and contemporary, celebratory and forward-looking. Fantastic voice, great performances and very exciting production - looove that fuzz-guitar choir combo! Great album. 9/10

Now this is what excites me about the 1001 albums project. I knew a couple of these songs from indie radio, but had never listened to one of his albums. I'm very happy to have now remedied that oversight. This may seem a strange comparison, but Kiwanuka's vocal tone actually reminds me far more of prog rock singers like Greg Lake or John Wetton as it does the Curtis Mayfield comparisons I've heard. The reverb drenched female backing vocals and guitar arpeggios seem very lounge. So I guess this is neo soul, but he takes a very different path to get there than does Raphael Saddiq (another artist criminally unrepresented on the list) for example. This is an album that morphs with your moods. If you are feeling brash, the sweeping orchestrations and soaring choirs seem very majestic, but if you are in a more melancholic frame of mind the electric pianos are bluesy in the way that Ray Charles was often bluesy. Through this prism I guess the Curtis Mayfield comparisons make a lot of sense. It's not the voice, it's the evocative soundscape. Set against this lush musical backdrop, amazing songs like "Hero" and "You Ain't the Problem" get the room they need to transport the listener to another astral plane. 4 stars, but I wish I could give 4 1/2.

Dit album was heerlijk, ik heb er veel naar geluisterd afgelopen weekend. Toch moet ik toegeven dat ik het album Love and Hate nog beter vond. Het was genieten.

4/5

Weno weno, muy mi estilo. No conecté inmediatamente con ninguna canción, pero siento que si lo sigo escuchando podrían haber algunas que seguiría escuchando

What an absolute hidden gem of an album. Great music, beautifully inspired, tastefully executed. This is what I'm listening to this list for. 8/10

Favorite Track: You Ain't The Problem

Strong album

5: I will happily play this album anytime 4: I may occasionally play this album of my own free will 3: I will happily listen to this if someone plays it in the background 2: I will tolerate this if it is playing in the background 1: I will leave the room if someone plays this in the background What's this...a post 2010 album on the list that I've actually found enjoyable?

This was a really good example of bee soul music. Found myself enjoying the vocals and lyrics immensely.

Pretty good honestly.

Riktigt skön bakgrundsmusik. Väldigt soft.

Absolutely teeming with life. WOW. Favorites: - I’ve Been Dazed - Piano Joint - Solid Ground - Light

Nice easy listening for a cloudy day. I really liked this!! Amazing how his music pulls you into the mood or feelings of his songs. Incredible!! Underrated for sure.

Honestly I liked this. The more he sang toward the end, too. It would be nice to spend some time listening to words and digesting whatever he is singing about.

I was initially ready to dismiss this album as overly saccharine and as sounding great, but being light on substance. I’m glad I listened to it multiple times, giving it my full attention and listening with headphones ultimately. I realized it’s easy to overlook something that’s bigger than it seems when you approach it with casual cynicism and undue (passive) skepticism. Impressive to see modern artists remaining devoted to the album, song cycle, or a unified concept collection of songs when the machinery incentivizes the immediacy and junk food style desire for bold flavors, but empty calories of single song releases.

Sehr sehr sehr nice

I love Kiwanuka! Amzing musicality and his vocals are so good! Great great album!

This album is really difficult for me. I loved it when it came out. I bought it on cd for my mom for Christmas. At times, I would rate this 5. But then… this project is making me question if it even belongs on the list! I mean there was SO much music released in this period that was more… revolutionary, that I go back to more, that was just more. But then… Kiwanuka’s simple and beautiful song writing and delivery was what I always loved about this album. Idk. I am always glad I listened to this. 4 Boolean: True

Bon album de quinqua

Cold Little Heart & Home Again on the other albums

Весьма достойный альбомец аж 2019 года. Удивило. Нещадно эксплуатируется ретро тема, что можно заметить не только по звуку и всем этим приемчикам, но и по оформлению обложек. Особенно забавно выглядит дебютник, ну прям чисто альбом из шестидесятых. Интересные аранжировки, всякие интрушечки к песням, в общем, все довольно неплохо, я не любитель соула, поэтому вряд-ли буду переслушивать, но ето достойно.

Love his voice and style, but it got a little same-y and dragged a bit

BOM álbum, não conhecia e me surpreendi. Som bacana

Beautiful. Loved this

Listened to this a lot when it was released, but didn't go back to it for a while. It's a fantastic album. Feels timeless, flows beautifully, sonically rich. A true gem!

Wow, what a great discovery!

Pretty cool

A journey of an album

Crisp rhythms, frazzled guitars and swirling keys combine for an acoustic odyssey, helmed by Kiwanuka’s warm storytelling voice. I start listening on the way to the gym, Saturday 5th September. Depressed thoughts are obliterated by the confluence of the sounds, sunlight pouring through the bus windows and the promise of renewal.

This was a pleasant surprise. Really close to a 5 for me. Never heard of the artist before, but I liked everything about this. Had old school vibes but a modern twist. Will be added to my regular rotation.

Very smooth and enjoyable listen

I really like this album! Fun listening experience

What a great album. Discoveries like this are why I wanted to do this project.

Hej allihopa!! Dagens album är Kiwanuka, ett väldigt imponerande album enligt mig. Känns som en fusion mellan gammal soul som whats going on, och Jimi Hendrix psykedeliska spelande. Tillsammans med storslagen produktion med körer och stråkar, så blir detta album nästan som en film. Varje låt flyter ihop väldigt bra och albumet använder sig av interludes på ett skickligt sätt. Jag gillar albumet väldigt mycket, men samtidigt så är de inget som fastnar för mig. Det var nice att lyssna på men inte någon revolutionerande upplevelse. Därför ger jag Grabbensomintekollarpåexplosioner detta album en 7/10

These are well-crafted songs. Kiwanuka has the ability to cross multiple genres, yet sound fresh.

This is a solid serious album with enjoyable sounds, though I'm not sure I'd put it on just to put it on.

Very catchy Fav: solid ground, light, I’ve been dazed

Not sure how to describe this one other than a globalized indie-soul fusion and honestly I dig it. I’ll definitely give this one more time in the future.

A very nice surprise! Never heard of the artist or album, and it was very good. Lots of old Marvin Gaye and old Motown feel, but with modern twist. It's a keeper.

La verdad que como primer álbum que escucho, me ha gustado mucho, sobre todo la canción de You’re Not The Problem y la de hard to say goodbye. Creo que he descubierto que me gusta bastante el Soul y encima me ha saltado una canción que se llama How Long de Fantastic negrito que me ha gustado mucho así que también me ha descubierto otros artistas así que gracias Kiwanuka te llevo en el corazón

Just a terrific album. You Ain’t the Problem is an al-timer and the rest of the record is full of soul and great hooks. I expect this will go up even more in my opinion as I re-listen to it more and more.

Listened before. Managed to see him live a few years ago at Glasto, which was my first experience. Enjoyed it!

Had never heard of him despite how popular he is … this album was awesome. Trippy journey through a ton of different styles with a soul anchor. Really solid album. 4

Only listened to Love & Hate so far, an album which I really enjoyed. KIWANUKA is a different experience sonically, but I would place it on a similar spectre, quality wise. I do have to say, though, the studio can't do these songs justice. Seeing him live is a beautiful experience, if you ever get the opportunity to do so, don't miss it. Favourite track: Final Days

I listened to this when it came out so have some familiarity with it. Not essential by any means but a nicely produced album that complements his smooth tones with some decent tunes.

Really cool and unique.

This is why I do this, never would of heard of or sought out this artist, but I enjoyed the hell out of this.

Starts off very strong, flows nicely, sounds great. Album length hurts it. Feels a bit too long, start sounding the same. Would go back and listen again. Musically it’s great, nice production and sound

Buenísimo, no lo conocía y me encantó

Enjoyable album ..a relief after the last few. Familiar with a few songs though I didn’t recognize his name at first but the voice ..heaven

Kiwanuka by Michael Kiwanuka • Release Year - 2019 • Genre - Psychedelic Soul Favourite Tracks 1. Solid Ground 2. Piano Joint This Kind of Love 3. Light 4. You Ain't The Problem Album Ranking - 4/5 Calming, Expressive and Enduring!

I hadn't heard this album or artist before, but this was great. It's tuneful, eclectic, soulful, and it rocks. Retro and modern all at once, with eloquent, heartfelt lyrics and lush layers. Everything sounds big, resonant, and warm – it's a lovely atmosphere to spend 51 minutes immersed in. I liked the little flourishes of distortion that keep the album from being too soft and smooth – a bit of grit in the oyster. Two tracks in and it felt like something special that might get five stars in future, with more familiarity. Probably the nicest surprise the fickle 1001 gods have yielded so far!

I hoped I would like this one when I read it had won a Mercury prize having been surprised with Talvin Singh. I know it can be hit or miss whether the winners are justified but this one definitely was a hit. Although OK, the first track was probably the worst one. It sounded like the title music to a '60s film which was still fun but the album just got better and better until I was disappointed when it came to an end. A lot of it sounded like a warm bath of soothing and relaxing music with a soft and easy voice. The orchestral arrangements around many of the tracks were great too although I thought the recording/production of some of the backing singers sounded a bit distorted. Maybe listening to an inferior quality Tidal stream on my laptop caused this. I think this is another CD I may be looking out for imminently.

What a lovely album. Very soulful voice on this guy. Honestly though, I went and sifted through a few comments and saw people saying the album before this is even better. So down the rabbit hole I went to give 'Love & Hate' a listen through, and yes, I do think its a better album. Thats saying something, as this one was pretty dang good! I'd be interested to know for these sort of off shoot albums, whether or not the 1001 album gods just chose one at random, or if they listened through discography to decide. Another example of this would be the inclusion of Taylor Swifts Evermore, why not include Folklore instead? According to Swifties, Folklore was the better album overall. So how was Evermore chosen?

This is nice.

wow

Couldn't believe it was released in the last 10 years. Awesome old sounds styled with a new twist

3.5+ * I like the production quite a bit, I don’t think I’ve heard this but it had a tiny bit familiar sensation, one track in particular was reminiscent of something (cover). Concept album? I would listen again for sure

Nevěděl jsem co cekat, ale je to strasne prijemny.

This was cool

Enjoyed this a lot

Excellent.

General thoughts: Whoa, first actually good modern pick on this list. The sound is fresh even if it evokes this soul-esque 70s motown vibe, a clash of modern and classic. The start is strong, but the interludes kill the momentum for me; it feels like the previous songs are building up to something, but the flow gets cut and ends up weird. That said, you can also feel the album was designed as a whole; I love that. I didn’t love his lyrics, but I did like his way of writing. The thematic is diverse too. Those distorted guitars, even if adorned with finer, more delicate elements, are the signature of 'Kiwanuka'. Definitely an album with initiative, something unusual. Closer to a 4 if not for the too many interludes. Outstanding song(s): You Ain't The Problem Weakest song(s): Another Human Being Piano Joint (This Kind Of Love) (Intro) Cover: The cover draws you in, perfect for a new face. The black frame focuses your attention on the portrait looking at you; the gaze is then directed to the self-titled name. The aesthetic is similar to other African rock albums. Real rating: 3.64

Interesting variety in styles. Loved his voice. This is an album I could go back to and enjoy again.

Much better than "Doves."

Was actually pretty impressed by some of these songs. One that I'll have to check out again in a couple weeks to see if I actually liked it but upon first listen, it's pretty solid.

The album was a pleasant surprise and easy listen from an artist I had not previously heard of. The album and singers voice left me wanting to explore further.

Good album that reminded me of Ray LaMontagne and some other blues-ier singer-songwriters. Vibes are mostly chill. Favorite track was "Hero."

Great album, love the sound and timbre that weaves between all the tracks, guided by his voice.

8/10 - Loved it! So soothing Fav Tracks: Final Days Heard before? --------–- ❌ Saved a new Song? ----- ✅ Saved Album? -------–-- ✅ Will Listen Again? ---––– ✅ Album Cover ----------– low key wanna paint it / 10

Excellent album. Good songs, great voice and guitars.

good album

めっちゃ最近のやつでした 聞いてみるといい意味で最近のものではないように感じました。まず声が好きだし、何回か聞いて深めてみたいと思った。リズムとかノリもいい感じで聴いていて楽しい。まあよくも悪くも雰囲気系

Sometimes a record, a good record at that, escapes your notice. An artist escapes your notice because you're drawn elsewhere. You can't absorb everything that pop culture puts in front of you, but when you hear something really good that has escaped your attention, you want that dopamine hit of finding that next good thing.

In the reverse of a few days ago this was a circumstance where the judging an album by its cover was wrong but in a positive way. I enjoyed listening to this.

Michael Kiwanuka grew up in North London to Ugandan parents in a house largely absent of music, fell in with skater kids, discovered Nirvana and Radiohead, then stumbled across a soul compilation and heard an Otis Redding studio outtake of Dock of the Bay, just Otis talking to his engineer between takes, raw and unguarded and completely real. From that moment he resolved to make music that sounded exactly like that. He spent the next decade quietly becoming one of the finest soul artists alive while most people were not paying attention. He supported Adele on her UK tour before his debut album was even released, which is the musical equivalent of being asked to warm up the sun. He was nominated for the Mercury Prize three consecutive times before finally winning it with this album in 2020, which is either a testament to his consistency or evidence that the Mercury Prize committee needed several attempts to make the obvious decision. Danger Mouse and Inflo produced the album, which explains the density and sophistication of the arrangements without fully explaining how they managed to make something that sounds simultaneously like 1972 and right now. The electric guitar sits at the center of compositions that draw from psychedelic soul, blues, folk, and gospel without ever feeling assembled from borrowed parts. One critic compared it to Marvin Gaye's What's Going On, which is a comparison that could sink most albums under the weight of expectation and somehow does not sink this one. I had never heard of Michael Kiwanuka before this series. I gave him a clean 4 without deliberation or reluctance, which in this series is the highest possible compliment. No historical importance consolation prizes, no respectful distance, no personal grievances (looking at you Clapton). Just an album that fits. 4 out of 5. One star for You Ain't the Problem, which opens the album like a statement of intent. One for Hero, which is exactly what it sounds like. One for Danger Mouse and Inflo, who built arrangements worthy of the voice they were serving. One for the Otis Redding outtake, which started the whole thing and which Otis never knew would matter this much to this many people.

This is one of those albums I’m surprised didn’t get any attention in the US. Never heard of it despite being pretty plugged in to the music scene. This is great. It’s psychedelic soul plus singer songwriter stuff. I’ll definitely seek this out in the future.

7/10

lovely listen very well produced and put together shoutout dangermouse 8/10 best song - rolling

Très bonne surprise, un peu chill mais vraiment sympa

Good album - hangs together well as a piece. No bad tracks and some really good ones too.

Hard to say goodbye earned a whole star on its own

I really enjoyed this album and want to revisit it with more focus.

*2019. English singer-songwriter. *It's hard to pin down exactly what this is (sounds 70s but modern with lots of other styles mixed in). *Very smooth and a pleasure to listen to. Nothing particularly stands out, but I know I'll be revisiting this one. RATING - 7.5/10

Psychedelic soul.

This is why I started this project. Absolute revelation of an album. Tough to classify, impossible to stop listening.

I'm not really a big soul fan, but this album is actually pretty good.

This why I signed up on this website. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. I have never heard about this artist before because I stopped following the media or looking for anything new around 2010 because what I heard 2005-2010 or later wasn't interesting. Love it. On the first listen I started paying attention and being extremely impressed by the third track. I've Been Dazed Piano Joint Living in Denial Hero Final Days Solid Ground etc are all standout tracks.

Piano Joint (This Kind of Love) is the hit. I feel like it was in something but I can't place it. Ted Lasso, but I had to look it up. I like this album. It would be good to have on at a low volume. As the kids say these days, it's low key good.

Very cool

Is this the most recent album we've heard? I love to see more artists that share my philosophy about music, or how do I say, I didn't know this artist, but I claim him as a (fellow?) post-genre contemporary artist. That's just the music that resonates with me most. I know people that will defend old media to their dying breath, and of course the 70s were amazing for music, and every other decade has great music, but I think it's willfully ignorant and self-defeating to deny that there is great music being made right now, music that I would argue is building on and even improving some of the precedents set in the past. It almost feels like the prevailing opinion, and I can't help but feel like some people think they're cool for intentionally limiting themselves to old stuff. Anyway that's a rant that might not be entirely based on fact. But I liked this album a lot. Shades of rock and soul, and I might go as far to say it's successfully "epic." I'm feeling a strong 4.

Another one that I'm glad to see pop up (we've been on a good stretch, seems like); my expectations aren't quite as high as for some of the other recent ones, but this is an artist who's piqued my interest - I've mostly liked (not necessarily loved) what I've heard so far. Ok, now I've listened to the whole album, and it's between 3 and 4, and I'm leaning toward a low 4. I'm uncertain how I'd feel with additional listens -- might like it more, might like it less. Sort of a sad (wistful?) mood, overall - which might be an obstacle, but sometimes hits the spot, maybe (although a whole album of it -- not so sure)? Just noticed that Wikipedia lists the genre as "psychedelic soul," which I'm not really seeing. Anyway, glad for the chance to hear this whole album of his work; tempted (if I were looking for something negative to say) that it all tended to sound a little bit the same? But it's a good sound. And I imagine I'd hear more differences, if I listened more. Anyway, a low 4 stars seems about right.

feeling a light four, mostly because it's not something I would put on that often. It's a very specific mood, really it's own world. On the flip side of that, I appreciate the atmosphere building and cohesive feel to the album. I would need to listen again to unpack it more. There weren't really standout tracks for me, but it stayed interesting throughout because of the stylistic diversity, dynamic arrangements, and multitude of sounds. The lyrical messages were powerful and evocative too

I only recently learned from Shuggie Otis that there’s a music genre called “psychedelic soul.” Michael Kiwanuka sounds only vaguely similar, which means his songs are psychedelic in a different way: While Otis uses classic soul songs as a canvas for extended improvisations, Kiwanuka’s songs are less accessible from the start, giving the overall sound a darker edge. I’m not sure if that’s a cool approach or just a bit too slow of a soul-pop sound. But in fact, most of the songs go far beyond pop standards, which makes this album a great chill-out record. I like it.

My first impression of this album is that it has hints of Radiohead mixed with classic 90s soul, probably more towards the UK brand of it. That makes an easy refreshing listen for me, one that I could happily leave on as it inspires me to get off my ass and enjoy the beautiful day I've been gifted. That also meant I stopped paying attention to it halfway through... I'm finishing my second listen at 8pm after a long dull work day. I still feel the composition inches towards Radiohead's brand of progressions. I'm not currently in love with Michael's voice, and his lyrics are very well written, but they also don't stick to me. I might come back for the arrangements, the way the album plays out. It switches up a mood, or maybe the goal is to transcend it. It feels very nice to follow this one through to the end. Maybe I'll grow to love this album. I'm not even sure I'll listen to it again. For now, I deeply appreciate it, I think it has potential, I'd expect a lot out of his other albums. 4.3/5

Had only heard his song featured on Big Little Lies. This is a real treat!

Catchy

Yesterday, I was in 2018, and today, the generator sent me to 2019. This album is behind its time. In no way does this album sound as if it was released the same year as *that* novel coronavirus. Smooth soul music with a hint of psychedelic techno, and it turns out to be a pleasant experience. I was pleasantly surprised! Favorite Track: "Piano Joint(This Kind Of Love)".

Out the gate…this is a GROOVE! I am a big fan of the album so far. I'm getting a folk + soul + psychedelic vibe from it. What I enjoy is that Michael doesn't appear to use any sort of voice synthesizer; All of the vocals seem legitimate and not altered. The back half isn't as strong as the front half, but not to say that I didn't enjoy them either! Overall, I think it's the best album I heard recently! Glad I learned about it here! Album Rank: 7.4 Favorite Song: Rolling

Lots of cool shit I like, all blended together. Another album I would not have found were it not for doing this exercise. Wish it had just a little more oomph towards the end, but I’m off to check out his other stuff

Me and Michael have had a bit of a fraught relationship over the years but I think we're finally getting into the honeymoon period. This album was good

Another pleasant surprise, what a great album!

Cool

Nice Brazilian tropicalia feel to it. Interesting musically throughout and enjoyable. 4/5

remarkable. i’ve only heard a few of his songs on the radio until now (and one of his earlier albums). this is the first of the 1001 albums that i’ve immediately listened to again after a first listen

This is very good.

It's always nice to come across a contemporary album which I enjoy. There were plenty of tracks here that drew stylistically from 70s soul and psychedelia, but they never felt derivative or simply nostalgic. Everything about this had a modern twist that made the album feel fresh and new. Overall, an engaging and consistently enjoyable listen with its own distinct identity.  

Incredibly groovy and cool, love all the instrumentals, it really feels like something out of the 60s or 70s. Some very different vibes and genres covered throughout too. Light was such an amazing ending to this brilliant album, will definately be listening to this one again, a few songs already made the playlist. 8.5/10 4 stars

enjoyed very much but second part dropped off

Bah franchement j’ai adoré et j’en ressors plusieurs chansons 8/10

unexpected bangers on this album

Erg mooie nummers!

soo beautiful omg

You Ain't the Problem - 5/5 Rolling - 4/5 I've Been Dazed - 4/5 Piano Joint (This Kind of Love) (Intro) - no rating Piano Joint (This Kind of Love) - 4/5 Another Human Being (Interlude) - no rating Living in Denial - 4/5 Hero (Intro) - no rating Hero - 5/5 Hard to Say Goodbye - 4/5 Final Days - 3/5 Interlude (Loving the People) - no rating Solid Ground - 4/5 Light - 4/5 Average score: 4.1/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ i wasn't sure about this one based on first impressions, as the albums on this list past the 90s era have been largely hit-or-miss. however, much to my surprise, i was blown away from start to finish! THIS is the kind of music i expected (and still expect) to be introduced to while completing the 1001 album list

3.93

I feel like I’ve had the same attitude towards all of the semi-contemporary albums I’ve enjoyed on here: there’s so much I really loved about this, but I wish it sounded a little bit less on-the-computer. This one is at least meant to sound more organic, but you can still hear it. Too tight, too wound up. Getting a really sick live band and doing this in a hall or a theatre would suit the music so much better.

Verry verry good album :< Something I didn't know I could be into. Fresh sounding. Relatable.

This album would have been popular if released at any point in time in the last 60 years. What an exceptional performance! 4 stars because I think his second album Love & Hate is even better crafted.

Black excellence what can I say? Awesome way of expressing how music transcends even decades

This is a worthy soulful, retro, low-fi effort. The mood is chill and I find it uplifting. I think a wide range of people would enjoy this music. I particularly enjoyed the melodic approach and the relaxed grooves. There was a nice balance of simplicity and layering.

Welcome back to the project indeed! Had this paused since earlier in the year; this was a fantastic album to return to. A suprising 4 stars!

Nice mix of different styles. Not all my cup of tea but certainly not bad. 4/5 stars.

Excellent album. First time I have listened to this artist.

Really enjoyed this album. Nice blend of genres, great singing and nice vibe.

What a great discovery ! This beauty totally took me by surprise. When you're three songs into an album and you still can't attach any clearly defined label to the music, you know the artist is doing something right. “Kiwanuka” is a gorgeous mix of many styles and genres, and yet it never feels artificial or affected ; everything just naturally and organically comes together, driven by a unique artistic vision and a strong personality. The fact that listeners who obviously belong to at least three different generations seem so unanimously enthusiastic about this album in the reviews is further proof that Michael Kiwanuka is a formidably talented artist, and shows once again that great music really transcends time and space. I don't love every single song, a couple of them are a bit on the pop side for me, but the more psychedelic soul and rock bits are absolutely amazing. Will absolutely listen again (and I might even edit my review later). 8/10

Super good stuff

6.5ish/10 but felt bad giving it just a 3 = much preferred this to the last couple, think the backing and harmonies worked really well and the whole album worked well together, can hear slight 60/70s influence which i think worked really well and i liked the messages in the songs too, not sure if i would seek out to listen again but wouldn't be mad if i did

Thoroughly enjoyed listening to this. 4.5

4 - Very good, but I still like Love & Hate a bit more.

8/10 - Great album. Kiwanuka's smooth, silky voice pairs so well with his instrumentals. Also blends variations to his song whilst retaining his unique style that makes the album an easy listening experience without lacking depth.

Kiwanuka is clearly inspired by all those excellent soul records from the seventies that I'm sure we've all become accustomed to while completing this project. I hear some Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye in his sound. The psychedelic guitar playing gives me Funkadelic vibes. The album blasts off with "You Ain't The Problem" - an ass-shaker of an opener that has a strong afrobeat influence all over it. This record isn't just rehashing old artists, Kiwanuka moulds them all into a sound that sounds very modern and fresh. I can see why many other users have been floored when they pick up this record. My only criticism of this album is that the album peters on a little longer than it should have. "Final Days" sounds like a perfect closer to an album and I don't think much is added by the next three songs that follow it. Outside of that, this was a delightful discovery.

Really relaxing and good music to write too. Been writing a training course to deliver in a few weeks and this helped with the vibe.

Sehr schönes Album. Viele emotionale Parts, klasse Instrumentationen. Unerwartet gut!

Soulful, acid-jazz at times. Emotional and well-crafted.

It was a very smooth listen. I only played it once tho. I've been having a tough day, and I wasn't in the headspace for repetition.

Pretty good singer-songwriter stuff. Kiwanuka has a good voice, and the lush instrumentation usually sounds ok (only occasionally cloying).

VERY reminiscent of mid-2010s Radiohead. Some of the songs sound straights off A Moon Shaped Pool. Pretty nice

Great album. Predictable in all the right places and unexpected in others. Danger Mouse's production really shines through.

Album with a lot of heart and soul. You Ain't the Problem is a perfect pop song.

8/10 Album. Super strong start. First half is phenomenal. Wish the lyrics were a bit more deep but honestly the style of basic emotional lyrics came through to me and did move me several times. Drove me to tear in the car to Piano Joint. Honestly Might be closer to 8.5/10 I mean I damn near added every song.

Very cool and interesting Standout songs: Ive been dazed Final Days Solid Ground

This is the Big Little Lies guy h yeah Faves: Rolling (melody reminds me of Born to Be Wild) Final Days

This is so unexpected! I dig this.

Great album!

Nice orchestral arrangments, I like it. The vibe is fiiiiire. I don't know why but this album got me into creative mood and now I wanna program!

Good music not my style

great surprise! liked the instrumentation

This is just bloody lovely stuff. Would never have myself down as a fan of soul, or neo-soul or whatever pigeon hole this might find itself in, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The opening trio is absolutely stunning, but I found the second half a bit more generally nice, as it washed over me a bit. Definitely going to be listening to this one again though.

Micheal Kiwanuka - KIWANUKA (2019) KIWANUKA is a great, deeply immersive album that stands as a decent listen, even if it does not quite reach a perfect score. The record stands out for its remarkably progressive soulful sound, capturing a dense, cinematic atmosphere that highly recalls the sweeping arrangements of Isaac Hayes' Hot Buttered Soul. Michael Kiwanuka delivers an incredibly strong performance here; the pure emotional weight of his vocals, the power of the lyricism, and the underlying socio-political messages hit hard. Balanced by a brilliant, gritty funkiness and rich textures, the project comfortably holds its ground as an excellent body of work. Based on the track selections, the definitive highlights of the LP include "You Ain't The Problem," "Rolling," "I've Been Dazed," "Piano Joint (This Kind Of Love) - Intro," "Hard To Say Goodbye," and the staggering emotional peak of "Solid Ground." 4/5

A surprise. Not my usual genre but really enjoyable

Preference - 3 Musicianship - 1 Legacy - .5 Total - 4.5

MMMMMMMMMM this is just got so much SOUL to it. this def makes me want so many more quality modern albums on the list, the production is just so good compared to 90% of this list.

After most of the rubbish picks that Dimery has made since 2004, I'm really glad that this album was chosen. It's got this modern production sound that pairs really well with the soul elements that he uses. His voice is well placed with the sound. I'm very surprised with how great this album is, and it has given me confidence to listen to more modern albums, as there are some actual gems in the modern era.

It's cool, very cool. Maybe too cool and too complete i dunno

Vibes are there

All I can say is, I loved this album. I'd never heard of this artist before, so I really didn't know what to expect. But as soon as I heard the first track, I knew that this was going to be a great album. The vocals are beautiful, along with the backing vocals, and they suit the style so beautifully. I liked a lot of the gospel sounds in certain tracks, creating an additional layer of fresh air and power. Favourite lyric: 'The lord said to me, time is a healer.' (I've Been Dazed') Favourites: I've Been Dazed You Ain't The Problem Hero

I really enjoyed this. A great voice with interesting and varied music. Of any contemporary musicians that might get radio play, this is as good as it gets. Beat stuff if front loaded on the album, so it does stall out near the end. But still, very very good.

A bopppppppppppppppppppppppp. Perhaps a bit slow at times but what can you do

Easy listening. I enjoyed the music and the message. I really liked I’ve been dazed. It really spoke to me. I also liked your not the problem and Another Himan Being. I enjoyed listening to something different from my usual music taste

Second time around for this one. I really like it. Surprised it’s on the list, but like it, so yeah! Of all the albums from 2019…whatever… I like it. Husband finds this album very middling to fair. He’s a much harder sell than me. It does make me wonder, though. Does this album really deserve a 4. The thing is, I do actually love it. I go back and it’s saved in my likes. I, personally, listen to it. My husband asks me: “Why? It’s boring.” But I love Kiwanuka’s voice. I think the production is top notch. Maybe this is just a me album. And I am the one rating it. 4 Boolean:true, maybe, but yeah 2016 - 19 had admittedly A LOT of music that probably deserves to be on the list over this.

Breath of Nigerian fresh air

It's fine, smooth, fresh and interesting. No other option than to give it a 4/5 (7/10 imo)

I really enjoyed this. Such great grooves and diggable vibes. It gets a tiny bit exhaustive towards the end, but it's WAY better than some of the garbage this list gives us.

When new music is either a swinging miss or a total home run in the ballpark of indie rock, KIWANUKA is a decent soundtrack to an afternoon driving around the nicer side of your downtown area with no particular destination.

1. Huere calming 2. Safe guet zum lerne 3. Zu wenig action für kich aber susch huere geil 4. Übergang zwüsched de lieder so clean das mers fascht nöd merkt 5. Album als Ganzes isch es Kunstwerk und nöd numme die einzelne songs 6. Mer merkt das er sich actually öppis denkt hett bi de schaffig vom album

Faktisk jævlig nice. God mix av 70s soul/funk med 10s sensibilitet.

Liker retroviben. Trommene og gitaren låter helt rått

Favorite Track: Hard to Say Goodbye

fav song - hard to say goodbye least fav song - living in denial i’m not really into folk music, but it was a nice album. sounds really refreshing and interesting

Had this one in my streaming library already, though I don’t think I had listened to it yet. You can hear the soul in this - Otis, Marvin, and many others. Wraps around you and makes you feel.

Solid album.

Loving the sound. Soul soup. Album suprised me and came out of nowhere. Hero and the intro stand out. Production crazy good too. 4 stars

If I went into this completely blind and you asked me to guess what year it came out, I certainly would never guess 2019. In many ways this album transcends time and genre. The whole thing felt like a breath of fresh air. Like many others, I had never heard of Michael Kiwanuka before this challenge, but now I'm interested in diving deeper into his discography. Favorite Track - Hero Least Favorite Track - Solid Ground ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Really smooth album, I really liked his sound and how each song seemed to intermingle with each other. Definitely an underrated artist, hadn't heard of him before this, will be coming back to this album in the future.

Easy listening but not in the traditional sense. Sometimes its good to have something thats not hugely challenging, that said theres definitely a unique style to this album that i've not really heard before, and i kind of dig it.

he's an artist i appreciate the voice and the sound of. already liked a few songs on the album but gotta say the whole thing has a nice vibe to it

Had no clue about this one, but was pleasantly surprised. Really enjoyable, and chilled soul stuff. Timeless almost, didn't seem like such a modern album. Definitely something to have on in the background while chilling. Glad to have heard this.

Thought it was gonna be just another hip hop album but it ended up being pretty good

Wow, first album from this century (21st). Great vibes so far. Liked the 70s touch. Recommended.

This album is a good bow on the indie, jazz-rock fusion albums of the 2010s. Really loved the textures of this one, and especially dug how the lyrics inform the music and vice versa. At times it almost feels ambient. Highlights: You Aint The Problem, Hard To Say Good bye

Неплохо, неплохо

Très très agréablement surpris On sent les influences, c’est ancré historiquement! Super :) 4.5-/5

This isn't my favorite Michael Kiwanuka album, but it's lush, beautifully produced, and of course the vocals are velvety smooth. I love how it sounds like something straight out of the 70s at times, but somehow still fresh. I'm pleasantly surprised by how highly rated it is.

Swaggy as FUCK. Never heard of this before but it surprised me

A recent addition to the list. Really dig the soul on this. Reminds me of some of the Colemine stuff from Finnegan and Monophonics.

I like the instrumentation This is more upbeat, which is appreciated after the last few. Is this a protest album? It feels old school, but is actually super recent. I was surprised. Started strong, then got a little repetitive. Final Days on the Planet is a strong track. Beautiful voice. Some standouts, but some fall into repetitive

After a few listens it really starts to hit different, not sure I class it as rock but it has elements of it No weak spots, just a good ol' album. Top tracks: you aint the problem, piano joint, final days, solid ground

Pretty good, not my taste

Intriguing sound and great voice.

Grooving, vibing.

Son canciones que fácilmente podrían servir para sonar de fondo en restaurante caro. La composición es buena, a la letra no le estoy prestando mucha atención. Lo volvería a escuchar? No. Añadí alguna canción a mis favoritas? Tampoco Le doy un 6/10 pero porque me gusta que en un álbum haya sonidos diferentes y a mi parecer esto sigue el mismo ''ritmo'' todo el rato, algo así como escuchar una canción de 1 hr sin parar (No shade). final note: es música de millenial JEJEJ another final note: mi opinión viene 100% predispuesta porque estoy escuchando algo que no quiero escuchar :D

Yllättävän solid albumi. Moni biisi meni omalle soittolistalle. Laulaja on todella taitava. Ei mitään lisättävää 7/10

8.5/10

I'd hearda few tracks before but never the full album, and it's great. The most recent thing I've heard on the list so far. Genuinely doesn't sound like anything other than itself.

Really enjoyed this album. Never heard of Michael but did recognise one of the songs.

Easy listening sparkly soul. Nothing really stood out but I enjoyed it.

Some songs hit some songs were ight. Solid overall.

Really like this! Hadn't heard of the artist before but the album strikes me as soul with touches of Stevie Wonder, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, and Sly Stone. Will definitely come back to this one in the future.

Day 2 Before: I've never heard about this artist before. Psychedelic soul does sound interesting. I'm gonna be so honest, I did not expect that. The instrumental really stands out to me. This album has such an interesting and full sound. I'm usually a little hesitant with newer albums, cuz they sometimes have a very spare and boring instrumental, but here both hand-drums and guitar gets to shine. The overall sound of every track changes throughout and gives it this beautiful harmonic feel, where it's never the same thing. There is always something happening. The vibe of the album feels very dreamy. At times it can be rough and direct, but also majestic and light. The use of strings, electronics, vocal harmony and hand-drums makes for such a great, experimental sound. No track feels the same, or repetitive. This album takes many different sounds and blends them into this sonically stunning album. Favorite(s): You Ain't The Problem, Hero, Hard To Say Goodbye

Very nice and chill! Def something id smoke to lolol

wow.

Álbum divertido, con onda. Música que acompaña, ligera, crea atmósfera. Sello propio de identidad.

I've never heard of this artist nor this album until it came up on my list. It is really good. A good blend of rock, jazz, and other genres. I'm only giving it four at this point because I haven't been able to really listen more in depth. I am willing to bet that after repeated listenings this will wind up being a five.

Starting off the next hundred albums with an artist I never would of listened to if not for this experience. Kiwanuka puts bits of Stevie Wonder and Thundercat in these songs while also addsing his own spin on those styles. It sounds old and new at the same time. A truly unique listening experience. I have no idea if I will return to it after today, but I will remember it more than some other albums in this collection. 4/5

It's kind of cool music. The blend of acoustic soul wibes with distorted electric guitar. Can become little dull at times.

Had no idea what to expect with this, but really enjoyed it. Final Days was definitely the highlight for me

This was incredible!! I didn't know what to expect but it was a great journey to go on. Great, buttery voice, and fun adventurous rhythms blend together to create a theatrical experience. 8/10

Tästä tykkäsin oikeesti ja oon kuunnellu joitain muitaki Kiwanukan biisei

rock

Loved this. Wasn’t sure what to expect but this was a surprise. He has a fabulous expressive voice. The whole thing is crafted immaculately. So many different things to listen to and interesting production choices that really work. Will be coming back to this one and exploring more of his work. A lovely find from the generator

New-to-me artist and I didn't know what to expect. I really liked this one. It was somehow classic 70s soul while being new and fresh. I could get into this.

After a recent poor run on this list I was not hopeful at all. I was wrong. This is instantly really enjoyable. I think it needs a few more listens to really identify the standout tracks but I did particularly enjoy I've Been Dazed and Piano Joint.

Very chill, introspective album.

Good record with some exciting, energizing moments. Really creative arrangements, sometimes really fun.

Not sure how this fits into rock category but an enjoyable listen none the less. A very distinctive voice. Some different musical styles but still an album to listen to start to finish and not just a jumble of songs. "You aint the problem" great track to start album. Also enjoyed "My hero" and "Final days"

Another great voice, lovely album, very much enjoyed the cool tracks

Sneaky gas