In the ever-evolving landscape of music, Kelela emerges as an unparalleled force, a visionary who has seamlessly woven the threads of alternative and electro-R&B into a mesmerizing soundscape.

With each boundary-defying release, she challenges conventions. Her latest creation, Raven, is a beautiful culmination of this ongoing journey. Recently, the stage at Chicago’s Thalia Hall became a sacred space where Kelela brought this forward-thinking vision to life. From the second she stepped on stage, the audience was immersed in a carefully curated setlist of remixes and edits that transformed the concert hall into a thumping nightclub as Raven took enchanting control.

Raven is a collaborative triumph created with accomplished artists, writers, and producers such as Bambii, Shygirl, LSDXOXO, Yo van Lenz, and Kelela’s longtime creative partner, Asmara. The album mirrors a fusion of these influences, demonstrating the strength of creative diversity while accentuating Kelela’s remarkable ability to traverse genres with masterful ease.

As the night progressed, two tracks from Raven – Kelela’s first album in six years – stood out. “Missed Call,” which was nothing short of spellbinding with its off-kilter DnB melody, intensified the electric atmosphere. Kelela’s vocals flowed like liquid gold over the pulsating beats, creating a moment of sonic seduction. In contrast, “Contact” exuded a laidback, house-leaning vibe, providing a sublime backdrop for Kelela’s tender vocals to harmoniously take center stage.

The show also prominently showcased Kelela’s work with Kaytranada, who brought an atmospheric production to “On The Run” – a song co-written by contemporary painter Janiva Ellis and NYC artist Junglepussy. The bouncy track was a testament to the consistent musical magic and sonic richness found in their collaborations. Fans were later treated to Kaytranada’s edit of “Waitin’,” a throwback from Kelela’s debut album, Take Me Apart, that resonated with her most devoted audience.

Kelela’s roots as a second-generation Ethiopian American born in D.C. and raised in Gaithersburg, Maryland, shine through in her art, embodying the diverse and creative spirit of the DMV. Her fearless exploration of global influences and her ability to leave a lasting impression with each performance exemplify the uniqueness woven into her artistry. On Raven, these worlds meet with exquisite synergy.

An amalgamation of club-ready and ethereal melodies, this unforgettable night was more than just a concert; it was a transformative celebration, where every note and lyric felt like a declaration of identity, a moment of unity, and a tribute to an artist boldly shaping the future of music. Stream Raven – available on Warp Records.

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