Isolation
| Kali Uchis
Isolation
Isolation (stylized as isola ion) is the debut studio album by Colombian-American singer Kali Uchis, released worldwide on April 6, 2018, by Rinse Recordings, Virgin Records, and Universal Music Group. The album was supported by three singles; "Tyrant" featuring Jorja Smith, "Nuestro Planeta" featuring Reykon, and "After the Storm" featuring Tyler, the Creator and Bootsy Collins. -Wikipedia
Critic Reviews
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Pitchfork
The debut album from the Colombian-American singer is a world of her own. Her wide range pulls in sounds from reggaetón, funk, and R&B and positions her to become a new gravitational force in pop.
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NME
The singer's vibrant debut album showcases an icon in the making.
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Rolling Stone
Forward-looking but vintage-feeling, the 24-year-old artist’s debut LP recalls classic Beck and Outkast.
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The Guardian
In Uchis’s persona, there are echoes of Lana Del Rey’s forlorn romanticism and arch nostalgia, as well as Amy Winehouse’s imperious old-school soul. Impressively, however, the 24-year-old never seems like a watered-down approximation of her forebears. Isolation is a record that feels rich, self-assured and deeply personal – and one that should ensure Uchis isn’t relegated to second billing ever again.
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Consequence of Sound
Uchis builds off a classic foundation of soul, R&B, funk, and blues, bursting outward in dozens of innovative contemporary directions. On Isolation, she never sounds trapped in another era; she sounds free and inventive. And with nary a dud to be found among its 15 tracks, Isolation deserves a spot in the dance pop and neo-soul pantheons.
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The Young Folks
Uchis is purposefully going against the grain, and completely abandoning any image an a artist like her should have (according to the industry). Personally, I love it. Without that mindset, she will end up falling prey to industry hounds looking for a quick buck. Aside from a couple of unnecessary tracks (particularly the interludes), Isolation is one of the year’s great surprises.
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Paste Magazine
For an album that’s 15 tracks to be this consistently good is a rarity, an anomaly, and an artistic triumph that should place it on every Best Of list at the end of the year. For Uchis to accomplish this while still holding on to seemingly all the cards, is even more rare, perhaps signaling a legend in the making.
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The Quietus
Kali told Fader magazine that she felt “more in tune” with herself in the creation of this album, and the melancholic lyrics clearly contain moments of honesty. They also feel romantic, in the sense of a troubled celebrity or a Shakespearean tragedy. With features like BIA, Jorja Smith, Reykon, Tyler The Creator and Bootsy Collins, Uchis’ debut is clearly meant to make a big impact, and her romantic-tragic persona complements it beautifully.
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Daily Trojan
While not every track leaves a strong impression, the overall aesthetic and tone of the album is cohesive enough to maintain listeners’ attention. Uchis’ voice draws influence from SZA, Janelle Monae and Amy Winehouse, but it has a tone unique to the bilingual artist. The world of Isolation is one that demands attention.
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Golden Plec
In truth, there are star production turns all over the album, not least from TDE resident, Sounwave and Brainfeeder alumnus, Thundercat. It’s all about Kali though, as her performance at Longitude will undoubtedly attest come July. An outstanding debut from an outstanding musician.
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The Fader
The singer’s long-awaited debut album proves that years of self-reflection can pay off.
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Coog Radio
Fans of her collaborators, including Tyler, the Creator, Tame Impala, Gorillaz and Jorja Smith shouldn’t miss out on this album. If you weren’t already a fan, then Isolation is the best way to turn you into one. Isolation is a solid 8.5/10, and is definitely worthy of picking up a physical copy.
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The 405
Kali manages to fuse the contemporary sounds of garage, hip hop and club music with a subtle touch, creating a set of songs that feel relevant to the current soundscape whilst taking inspiration from the funk and soul legends that preceded her. The album jumps from genre to genre seamlessly.
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Music OMH
A touching, endearing tenderness runs through Isolation, amongst all the boasting and empty bravado. The scepticism that usually accompanies artists like this often leads to the diamonds being ignored and not given the credit they deserve. This album deserves plaudits, and Kali Uchis should use this momentum to push herself onto the global stage. She’s earned it.
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LONDON IN STEREO
Bringing the album to a close is the poignant ‘Killer’ which was written in the back of an SUV while Uchis was surrounded by everything she owned, cast out by her family. This final track almost acts as a signifier of how far the artist has come. From a humble background in Virginia, to living in her car, she now finds herself in Los Angeles and collaborating with some of the most influential names in the industry. Isolation feels like a project of love, as it glides across genres, dropping hit singles along the way.
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The Northern Light
“Isolation” is the summer cocktail you didn’t know you were craving. Uchis captures the beauty of youth and freedom, but doesn’t sugarcoat or shy away from addressing the hardships that befall young people as they struggle to navigate life, love and hustle to make ends meet. It’s the perfect album for any person seeking to recline, relax and momentary escape.
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Northern Transmissions
After her slow drip of singles and collaborations with some massive artists, Kali Uchis has finally landed on her debut LP. Featuring a wealth of tracks covering jazz, soul, bossa nova, rap, hip hop, Latin music and a bit of everything in between, the album really keeps the energy going and brings even more single-worthy tracks than Uchis had already released. Considering even her most derivative moments bring her own unique flair, this is an album that straddles ambitious writing and classic ideas with precision.
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Good Vibes Only
These songs may not be the trend of today for everyone, but they for sure are the trend of the future. As a fan of her music, I am excited as to what the future holds for Kali Uchis.
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The Musical Hype
All in all, Kali Uchis delivers a compelling debut album with Isolation. Vocally, she has a distinct instrument, and artistically, she’s chocked-full of personality. Do the songs always ‘pop right out at you?’ Not necessarily, but Isolation is consistent, enjoyable and well-conceived. Kali has mad potential.
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The Odyssey
Throughout this particular album, Kali Uchis tells a thought-provoking story, completely showcasing her true individuality to her fans through her emotions, pain, and sorrow. This surely demonstrates that she was willing to give her personal all to her loving fans musically, thus, is the main reason as to why I truly admire her immensely.
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Over the Offing
Perhaps the greatest thing about this album is that it doesn’t shatter the imaginative world that it creates. The beautiful fading out across the final track, “Killer”, invites us to think of ourselves as the killers in Kali’s world, that we too are participants in the life-celebrated and love-delayed thudding and soaring, grinding and flying. “Isolation” is as unified as it is all over the place, as communal as it is alone.
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DIY Mag
She’s sharp and willing to take hits, so long as she gets to hit back: “Why can’t you see? You’re dead to me,” she sings on ‘Dead To Me.’ It’s a phrase she repeats over and over, vibrant in her confidence, and enjoying the wealth of every syllable.
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Sputnik Music
Even when the topic of discussion is quite serious like on “Tomorrow”, it still comes off as a celebration more than a commiseration. It is as if the album is telling you that everything you worry about is not all that important, because in a couple of years you will see it all as a bad joke worth only a smirk, because right now you should be just a happy, rad person.
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NPR Music
On Isolation, Kali sings in English and Spanish over lush instrumentals with a myriad of influences. From the silky funk of "After The Storm" to the reggaeton rush provided in "Nuestro Planeta," Kali fires up her creative cylinders, all while telling stories of being kicked out of her house, leaving ex-lovers in the dust and learning to appreciate family.
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Datebook
Uchis . . . is mixing genres in new and provocative ways, carving out a sound of her own.
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All Music
For all its entertaining art-pop feats, Isolation is just as remarkable for serious moments like "Killer," in which Uchis reaches a high degree of anguish that only real-life experience can arouse.
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Loud and Quiet
This is a real summer record, erupting with tunes that are almost guaranteed to lay the soundtrack for whatever holiday you take this year.
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Exclaim!
solation works because Uchis displays impeccable command over her voice and her style. She bends genres to her will rather than allowing them to absorb her identity, making for an impressive effort that will only improve as it ages.
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Medium
Overall, Uchis’ highly anticipated first full-length album was well worth the wait. I thoroughly enjoyed it because although each song was considerably different from the last, all of them cohesively remained true to Uchis’ signature sound. I believe “Isolation” tells a story and the way to listen to it, especially the first time through, is from start to finish. She’s young, overflowing with creativity, and unapologetically herself — I can’t wait to hear more from her!
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Coyote Chronicle
Overall, this album is perfect for the long drives on your way to school or during a gap between classes.
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WMGU Radio
All in all, Kali Uchis produced a collaborative album that deserves immense recognition from music critics today. An ultimate step up from her mixtape Drunken Babble (2012) and Por Vida-EP (2015), it’s a mesmerizing album driven by bi-lingual lyricism, genre-bending undertones, complex soundbites, and an offbeat-yet-glamorous style. The fifteen-song listicle is easy listening to the ear, yet challenging to the mind.
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Popfection
Overall, ‘Isolation’ can really do no wrong. Every single song fits into this giant puzzle, and although some songs aren’t as prevalent in my memory as others, each song is unique and fresh with every listen. I’m so happy with this release, and so happy to see Uchis getting the recognition deserved. I’d recommend anyone to give this a few listens, this record is worth it.
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Highsnobiety
While Isolation might be chock-full of features and collaborations that bring undeniable color and depth to the album, there is an aspect to the record in which the title rings true; on top of it all, alone and in control, sits Kali Uchis, and when the chips fall, she’ll know that her debut album will be sure to launch her career into the stratosphere.
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SPIN
Isolation is her first album for Universal, and it features behind-the-boards contributions from a whole host of contemporary L.A. royalty: Thundercat, DJ Dahi, Sounwave, and BADBADNOTGOOD. Uchis also reunites with Damon Albarn, who featured her on last year’s Gorillaz album. The result is a smooth, vibe-y project that seems to tease those of us still shivering through April.
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Wolf Pack Radio
In many ways, Isolation is the kind of album an artist makes just for himself or herself; however, it perpetuates extremely personal, yet universally relatable emotions and perspectives. The versatility of Isolation solidifies Kali’s reputation as a well-rounded, multi-talented artist. Her personal and contemporary take on a retro, vintage sound awards her a genre of her own. She has proven herself ready, willing, and deserving of the spotlight.
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Daily Cal
In her newest album, Kali Uchis exudes a hyperfeminine mystique that allows her music to talk about love and fame in a manner that’s unexpected and evocative while always catchy. Combined with a killer vocal ability and the backing of some of the biggest names in music, Isolation is a force to be reckoned with.
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Melodic Magazine
If you have not listened to Isolation yet, I highly recommend to give a listen to “After the Storm”, “Flight 22”, and “Just a Stranger.” This album is definitely a great listen for when getting over a former love interest, or just bopping to by yourself in your room! This is definitely one of my favorite albums of 2018, and I can’t wait to see what Uchis brings to the table next!
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WUSC FM
Isolation is as amazing and unique as Kali Uchis herself. If you haven’t yet listened to her yet, stop what you’re doing right now and lose yourself in the magnificence of Isolation.
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The Daily Nexus
Isolation captures Kali Uchis’ relentless ability to venture into an amalgamation of different musical domains. With Uchis, it is difficult to pinpoint with what sound she finds the most success. Nonetheless, it is not an overbearing element on her behalf, but rather, it showcases her talents. Similar to a film soundtrack, this project gathers a variety of songs which can be implemented for an abundance of feelings. There is no one single type of sound, yet the cohesiveness remains intricate. For whatever situation that comes in Uchis’ path, this protagonist proves to be at the center of the spotlight in each moment.
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Inhailer
Isolation is, from beginning to end, a success. It explores the much of the same same feelings and concepts as 2015’s Por Vida but with elevated production and a solidified vision. Uchis is a huge advocate for having creative control of her content, from creating stunning visuals to music that moves you.
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Sungenre
Learning to sing is something that she has most definitely mastered and though the list of collaborating musicians and producers on Isolation is jaw-dropping, it is Uchis’ voice and her strong lyricism that permeates most prominently. This certainly is an impressive debut – accomplished, polished and professional. With something here to please just about any music fan, this is definitely one to give a listen.
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The Diamondback
The singer-songwriter’s new album showcases a star in the making.
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Decade Magazine
Kali Uchis' first effort is a delightful mix of funk, soul and hip-hop, drenched in neon and littered with 80s synths. Fans of R&B and quirky pop are in for a treat as Isolation is a much needed break from the trap-dominated charts.
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Spectrum Pulse
he writing is average at best, her vocals while varied to fit her production don't always reflect her strengths, and said production seemed to keep compromising its promising foundational elements for a languid, gauzy vibe that does nothing for momentum or deeper organic presence. In short, with many of these rough edges it feels very much like a debut - maybe if she was willing to tighten things up I'd be more willing to go back, but for me this is an extremely light 6/10 and a tentative recommendation - if it wasn't for 'In My Dreams', that score would be a fair bit lower.
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Popdust
Isolation is a vibe, a contemplative pop record that draws from a diverse range of genres, all of which exercise Uchis' impressive range as a writer and singer.
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The Panther Online
Uchis has come a long way since her mixtape days, and she shows that she can create something that is not solely manufactured from a pre-made sample. She proves that music is a powerful form of art that, if done right, can peer into a person’s soul.
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WRBB Radio
Isolation is a fantastic debut. Although there are a few weaker tracks, the moments that shine, really shine. It’s great production, catchy hooks, and genre-blending sound make it easily the best R&B release so far this year and Kali Uchis an artist that deserves your attention.
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Independent
Isolation represents the different facets of Uchis: the survivor, romantic and the rebel. But she still manages to keep herself a mystery through moody metaphors and Uchis – who grew up in between Colombia and Virginia – has been largely underrated the past few years, but Isolation might just finally give her the attention she deserves.
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Riffs and Rhymes
Isolation leaves little doubt in Kali’s aspirations of being the next big R&B songstress. Her album is appropriately titled as an ode to her coming up as a multicultural singer and as a strong display of her individual ambition.
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God Is In the TV
Isolation succeeds as a whole album because she flitters through different genres with apparent ease. No matter what she attempts, the songs are brimming with ideas, memorable hooks and gleaming production. They are enhanced by her adventurous and fearless spirit which shines through on this incredible debut. I’ll be surprised if there’s a better album released all year.
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The HoofBeat
Overall, “Isolation” keeps the listener on its toes with each track representing a small piece of a bigger puzzle that showcases the diverse aspects of Kali Uchis as a songwriter, and her boldness when it comes to dabbling in different genres. If Uchis aimed to make a statement with “Isolation,” her goal was accomplished. She is a force to be reckoned with.
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The Fresh Committee
Over extended listens, Isolation indeed merits increasing appreciation. Yet I can’t help but think this blissful debut missed a poetic opportunity, regarding its concept.
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Josh Hurst on Records
Isolation casts Kali Uchis as a woman adverse to compromise; it celebrates her iconoclasm but also hints at the cost. “Just come closer,” she coos at the end of “Body Language,” reaching out for intimacy and connection. If only it were so simple.
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The Highlander
Kali Uchis delivers a sexy, soothing and soulful adventure with “Isolation”
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Yahoo!
Uchis builds off a classic foundation of soul, R&B, funk, and blues, bursting outward in dozens of innovative contemporary directions. On Isolation, she never sounds trapped in another era; she sounds free and inventive. And with nary a dud to be found among its 15 tracks, Isolation deserves a spot in the dance pop and neo-soul pantheons.
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Viberant
There’s no weak tracks on this entire record, Isolation will be one of the top albums come the end of the year. To be honest it’s one of, if not, my favourite as we close in to the halfway point of the year. This is the album that takes Uchis and puts her at the top of the game, her stock has just risen a ridiculous amount, props to her on a quality album. The psychedelic, funky, sexy vibes are only going to get better with age.
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mxdwn Music
Kali Uchis has spent years establishing herself musically, and her debut album has been worth the wait. She has a sultry sound that borrows from the past while distinctly updating it and is unabashedly feminine without being afraid to showcase her power. Isolation proves that Kali Uchis is the complete package.
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Choon Group
Should I just put Isolation on shuffle and shut the hell up? Let me know. Until then, I’ll be listening to “Nuestro Planeta” on repeat.
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Legends Will Never Die
I’ve always been curious to see what Kali would do after her Por Vida EP in 2015 & this just goes to prove that she is gonna be a new face in modern neo-soul. The production is just as beautiful as the EP & Kali’s Erykah Badu-like voice is stronger then ever as is her songwriting. If you loved her feature on Tyler’s last 2 albums but haven’t given her a change in her own, give this a listen.
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Stereoboard
Kali Uchis may well possess one of the keenest new intellects in pop. Her debut album, ‘Isolation’, is a veritable smorgasbord of chart joy, combining funk and soul revivalism, synth-pop and Latin tropicana with a stunning degree of cogency and verve.
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The Spellbinder
I highly recommend this album, as it reaches so many different sounds that I am sure everyone will love!
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The Needle Drop
Thanks to its strong melodies and aesthetic, Isolation is a great and promising full-length debut from the Colombian soul singer.
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Miami Student
Sometimes the beauty of an album is how it tackles a serious topic, or strikes a personal chord. But it can also be, quite simply, excellent music. For all its emotional depths, “Isolation” falls in the latter category. Blissful funk, retro soul, Latin pop, contemporary R&B, bubbly dream pop — Kali Uchis takes all of these, masters them and puts her own stamp on it. Rarely is a record as thoroughly listenable from start to finish as “Isolation.” The list of features and producers is impressive, but make no mistake: Kali Uchis is the real star of the show, and she’ll keep you captivated until the last note.
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Palatinate
Having built her name as a vocal supplier to various luminaries of the pop scene, including Tyler, the Creator, Snoop Dog and even Damon Albarn’s Gorillaz, Kali Uchis turns the spotlight on herself and her first proper album. Super-slick production serves as the platform for a generous helping of funky, R&B infused tracks topped with soulful yet delicate vocal delivery. And a roster of featured artists only add varied and engaging sound of the record.
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