Kiran Kai steps into the spotlight with Ariel Blue, a debut that blends R&B, drill, soul, and shoegaze into a sound that’s uniquely his. The album is a bold move forward, mixing emotional depth with genre-defying production, and it’s clear that Kai is ready to make his mark.
Kiran Kai is done playing the behind-the-scenes game. After years of shaping hits for Skepta, Mahalia, and Mick Jenkins, the South London artist takes centre stage with Ariel Blue, an album that’s equal parts dreamy and daring. The debut doesn’t fall short on genre-mashing, seamlessly weaving together R&B, drill, soul, and shoegaze, all while maintaining a sound that’s unmistakably Kai. “The time is always right for a debut,” he tells METAL Magazine, and with this one, it’s clear he’s been more than ready.
While listening to the album, we straight away notice that the eclectic nature of Ariel Blue is its most intoxicating feature. Kai himself acknowledges that the project’s genre-blending approach reflects his ever-evolving musical palate. Kai speaks of his album’s cinematic flair, referencing the iconic Akira Kurosawa’s expansive landscapes and surreal visuals, a key inspiration for the musician. Tracks like Shower and Fiji are perfect examples of this, as they delve into a psychedelic, trance-like atmosphere, enveloping you with lush textures and minimalistic production that never feels sparse.
While the album is undoubtedly his, Ariel Blue thrives on collaboration. Lex Amor, Duval Timothy, and Jordan Rakei all contribute to the piece’s sprawling energy, bringing their unique perspectives and turning each track into something bigger than it could’ve been alone. As Kai puts it, “The vision is always in flux,” and it’s this constant evolution that makes Ariel Blue feel like a dynamic conversation between him and his collaborators. The result is a sonic journey that feels deeply personal, yet always open to growth.
Lyrically, Ariel Blue is introspective, with Kai tapping into the emotional and the experimental. His time spent living in Goa and Los Angeles has clearly seeped into the music, especially in his ability to blend different cultural elements into something refreshingly new. From Goa’s lush, laid-back vibes to the frenetic energy of LA, the album sounds like it’s been touched by the world.
At its core, Ariel Blue is exactly what Kai describes it to be: “entertainment and a good vibe.” Yet there’s more to it if you listen closely. It’s an album that thrives on emotional depth and genre-defying experimentation, leaving room for introspection while keeping the energy high.