Description
Michael Kiwanuka – Kiwanuka – Double Vinyl Record
Released on November 1, 2019, Kiwanuka is Kiwanuka’s third studio album, and it stands as a profound statement of self-identity, artistry, and emotional depth. Building on the success of his 2016 album Love & Hate, Kiwanuka crafted a record that is bold, introspective, and deeply rooted in his journey as an artist and individual. The album’s self-titled nature reflects a deliberate act of self-assurance. After years of grappling with impostor syndrome and self-doubt, Kiwanuka chose to embrace his name and heritage with pride, signaling his commitment to authenticity in both life and music.
Returning to the studio with producers Danger Mouse (Brian Burton) and Inflo (Dean Josiah Cover), the duo behind the acclaimed Love & Hate, Kiwanuka expanded his sonic palette while maintaining the soulful essence that defines his work. Together, they created a lush and intricate soundscape that draws from a wide range of influences, including classic soul, funk, psychedelia, folk, and orchestral music. The result is an album that feels timeless yet innovative, weaving together deeply personal narratives with universal themes.
The opening track, “You Ain’t the Problem,” sets the tone with its buoyant Afrobeat-inspired rhythm and empowering lyrics. Kiwanuka’s voice, warm and resonant, urges listeners to reject self-doubt and embrace their worth. This theme of resilience continues throughout the album, offering a counterbalance to the moments of vulnerability and introspection that follow. On “Rolling,” gritty guitar riffs and raw, psychedelic production evoke the energy of 1970s rock, creating an anthemic track that feels both urgent and nostalgic.
Throughout the album, Kiwanuka explores the complexities of human connection and personal growth. Tracks like “Piano Joint (This Kind of Love)” and “Final Days” highlight his ability to express vulnerability with aching beauty. “Piano Joint” is a soulful ballad that combines tender orchestration with Kiwanuka’s emotive vocals, capturing the fragility and yearning of love. In contrast, “Final Days” delves into existential themes, reflecting a more somber tone while maintaining the cinematic quality that permeates the record.
One of the album’s standout tracks, “Hero,” pays homage to civil rights activists and historical figures who have fought for justice and equality. With its bluesy guitar riffs and poignant lyrics, the song balances reverence with a raw, unpolished energy, capturing the sacrifices of those who have come before. Meanwhile, “Light,” the album’s closing track, brings the journey full circle with a hopeful and spiritual tone. The song’s uplifting message of self-acceptance and perseverance resonates long after the final notes fade, encapsulating the heart of Kiwanuka.
Kiwanuka is as much about self-discovery as it is about empowerment. Kiwanuka reflects on his personal struggles with self-worth, his experiences as a Black artist in a predominantly white industry, and his longing for connection and meaning. These themes are underscored by the album’s rich production, which integrates soulful strings, dreamy psychedelia, and earthy folk textures. The influences of legends like Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, and Pink Floyd are evident, but Kiwanuka channels these inspirations into a sound that is uniquely his own.
Kiwanuka was met with widespread acclaim upon its release. It won the Mercury Prize in 2020, cementing its place as one of the most significant albums of its time. Critics lauded the record for its emotional resonance, innovative production, and timeless quality, with many calling it Kiwanuka’s most accomplished work to date. The album was a fixture on year-end “Best Albums” lists, praised not only for its artistry but also for its willingness to confront deeply personal and societal issues.
At its core, Kiwanuka is an album about embracing authenticity and finding strength in vulnerability. It transcends genre, blending elements of classic and contemporary music to create a work that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. For Michael Kiwanuka, this album was not just a creative triumph but a declaration of identity, standing as a testament to his growth as an artist and a human being. It is a record that invites listeners to reflect, to heal, and to find light even in the darkest of times.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
You Ain’t The Problem
Rolling
I’ve Been Dazed
Piano Joint (This Kind Of Love) Intro
Piano Joint (This Kind Of Love)
Another Human Being (Interlude)
Living In Denial
Hero
Hard To Say Goodbye
Final days
Interlude (Loving The People)
Solid Ground
Light
