Kelela Live: A Cat-like Elegance in Performance
When I witnessed Kelela live in 2023, her onstage presence struck me as distinctly cat-like. Her movements were a blend of frantic energy and sharp precision, occasionally shifting to a languid grace. It was as if she were perpetually attuned to her body, even during moments of stillness. This imagery resonated with me while listening to her live album, In the Blue Light, which was recorded at New York’s iconic Blue Note Jazz Club.
A Sonic Journey Through Kelela’s Discography
Kelela’s 12-song set spans just over an hour and features selections from her entire discography, from the beloved 2013 mixtape Cut 4 Me to her latest studio album, Raven. This album serves as a harp-assisted journey through the soundscapes that have solidified her place in the realm of electronic dance music, particularly within its vibrant, queer, and forward-thinking context.
Thematic Resonance in Kelela’s Lyrics
Opening with “Enemy”
The concert begins with “Enemy,” a track that encapsulates the complex dynamics of love and disappointment. In this opening piece, Kelela addresses and ultimately forgives a partner who has let her down, setting the emotional tone for the evening.
Exploring Love’s Duality in “Raven”
She transitions seamlessly into the profound “Raven,” a reflective post-mortem on a relationship that only found clarity after its conclusion. Both songs highlight the bittersweet nature of love, from the exuberance of new beginnings to the lessons learned in solitude.
Introspection and Self-Soothing
“Take Me Apart”
One of the most poignant moments in the set is “Take Me Apart.” Over soft percussion, Kelela lays out her expectations with an emotional intensity that is both terrifying and clarifying: “Don’t say you’re in love, baby/Don’t say you’re in love until you learn to take me apart.” This track serves as an anthem for those who prefer introspective healing over superficial declarations of affection.
The Delicate Ascendance in “Bankhead”
Following this emotional weight is the tender “Bankhead,” which rises gently with the aid of sparkling piano and a moving choral arrangement. The addition of Kenyan-Ugandan singer Xenia Manasseh’s refined voice enhances the track, making it a moment of delicate beauty in the performance.
Kelela’s Evolution as an Artist
With over a decade in the music industry, Kelela has established herself as a prolific artist despite a limited number of releases. She is a master at reinterpreting her own work, unafraid to experiment with her sound by stripping away instrumentation or layering her vocals in innovative ways.
Reinventing “All the Way Down”
A standout track from In the Blue Light is “All the Way Down,” which Kelela remixes yet again. The urgency in her lyrics—“Is my head in the way/’cause my heart can’t explain”—echoes a singular need to explore the complexities of commitment. Her artistry often draws comparisons to Janet Jackson, particularly in how she channels both sensuality and desire in her music.
Conclusion
Kelela’s live performance in 2023 was a testament to her artistic evolution and the emotional depth she brings to her music. Her ability to reinterpret her songs while maintaining their core essence allows her to connect with audiences on a profound level. The themes of love, introspection, and renewal resonate throughout her work, making her a vital voice in contemporary music.
FAQs
What is Kelela’s latest album?
Kelela’s latest studio album is Raven.
Where was In the Blue Light recorded?
The live album In the Blue Light was recorded at the Blue Note Jazz Club in New York.
What themes does Kelela explore in her music?
Kelela’s music often explores themes of love, introspection, and the complexities of relationships.
How long is Kelela’s live set on In the Blue Light?
The live set is a little over an hour long, featuring 12 songs from her discography.
