Review: Kali Uchis - Por Vida
By Haadiza Ogwude, Contributor
[Self-released; 2015]
Rating: 7.5/10
Key Tracks: "Sycamore Tree," "Lottery," "Loner"
Colombian artist Kali Uchis adds a modern twist to R&B. Her ‘60s inspired style mixed with modern day trends is not the only way she revamps this classic genre. Her witty lyrics about teenage love dramas over light California surf pop-inspired beats bring a depth to this album that is scarce today. Por Vida is a concept album about a girl falling in love with a boy and getting her heart broken.
Por Vida opens with an acapella song titled “Sycamore Tree.” The acoustics of this song are phenomenal; you can really hear the angelic sound of her voice. The lyrics of this first song set the pace for the rest of the album. On “Sycamore Tree,” Uchis sings about a boy who is very persistent in his quest for her. He has a certain persuasive and suave quality about him that makes it difficult for her to resist.
The second song of the album, “Call Me,” is about the boy and Uchis beginning their relationship. The slow, sweet melody in combination with Uchis’ lyrics portray the level of infatuation Uchis is beginning to have with this guy. “Lottery” is the first song that begins to change the pace of the album. This song is light, sweet and very retro but expresses some distress in their relationship. She’s admitting to having issues with this boy, but she is willing to do whatever it takes to make it right if he will just give her a second chance. It’s easily one of the best tracks on the record.
“Know What I Want” is a reggae inspired track that really stands out on Por Vida. Uchis’ Colombian roots really shine through, and the lyrics express the large number of fights she and this boy are having. She feels regret over this relationship: “I should’ve left your ass in the friend zone.”
The album comes to a close with the beautiful trip-hop inspired song “Loner.” This song also wraps up the relationship between Uchis and her lover; Uchis desires to get away and move on. It is safe to assume that her and this boy are officially over. She also makes several references to “Sycamore Tree” in this song, bringing Por Vida full circle.
She sings, “Cause I was a loner until I met you / And I let you in after all the persuasion / Mind games, manipulation.” In these lyrics she refers back to “Sycamore Tree” when he courts and persuades her to give him a chance.
Por Vida is an amazing debut. Although Uchis’ roots are in R&B, Por Vida is sampled with styles from across the spectrum. Ranging from reggae, trip hop, funk and surf pop, the diversity she brings to this work is very evident but not overwhelming. Though a somewhat stale concept of love and relationships, Uchis takes us on a journey through her past and her love with this boy.
Uchis has made an album that attracts and then keeps you coming back for more. With each listen you discover something new. Although the concept is not original by any means or incredibly deep, she manages to make it very emotional and raw. Despite its occasional flaws, this album is one of the strongest debuts from an artist in recent times.
