Kindness – Otherness
3/5
British disco-electro-pop artist Kindness has released his sophomore album Otherness, a dance-inducing-sax-filled 10-song collection. Also known as Adam Bainbridge, Kindnessfuses together electro-pop with retro style R&B and soul exceptionally well.
“World Restart” features the R&B songstress Kelela in the textured, neo-disco opener, complete with punctuated percussion to bring the song together. The heavy, and melodic drum parts are a well-featured item on Otherness, with the second track “This is Not About Us” containing smooth and sharp percussion.
Slowing things down, “I’ll Be Back” shows off the purer form of Bainbridge’s soft, yet rustic vocal qualities, accompanied by soulful piano chords.
“Who Do You Love?” features Swedish electro-pop sensation Robyn doing what she does best, while Bainbridge contributes a neo-funk, house style rhythm.
Similarly, “8th Wonder” follows closely behind featuring a rap verse from Ghanaian rapper M.anifest, adding a hint of tribal influences to the electro-soul song.
Kelela makes one last appearance on the album in the saxophone-crooning “With You”.
Moody and ambient, “Geneva” adds some extra character to the album, with unpredictable textures and tones, alongside reoccurring choruses.
“Why Don’t You Love Me” features Devonté Hynes (a.k.a Blood Orange) and fellow British R&B singer Tawiah for an electro-disco track that gradually increases in style and power. Otherness ends on a positive note with the bass-lead, electronica track “It’ll Be OK”.
Listen to the entire album via the Guardian.
