Michael Kiwanuka – Small Changes (Polydor)

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Michael Kiwanuka, a British singer-songwriter born in London to Ugandan parents, has steadily evolved his musical style since his 2012 debut, Home Again. Initially recognised for his retro-soul sound, Kiwanuka expanded his artistic horizons with Love & Hate in 2016, collaborating with producers Danger Mouse (Brian Burton) and Inflo (Dean Josiah Cover).

This partnership continued with his self-titled 2019 album, Kiwanuka, which won the Mercury Prize in 2020. On his latest release, Small Changes, Kiwanuka reunites with Burton and Cover to further broaden and deepen his sound. The album reflects personal growth, drawing from his experiences as a husband and father.

Michael KIwanukaThe tracks are written and performed by Kiwanuka, Cover, and Burton, with other performers including Pino Palladino on bass and legendary producer Jimmy Jam on organ. James Gadson, the renowned drummer for Bill Withers, provides the deep grooves that underpin many songs. Withers‘ influence resonates throughout, especially in the heartfelt lyrics of The One and Only, which explore love, gratitude, and self-reflection.

The sonic palette is rich and varied, blending dream pop with soul and R&B influences. The album balances nostalgic warmth with forward-thinking innovation, incorporating electronic textures, reverberating guitar, and lush string arrangements of violins, violas, and cellos.

The album opens with Floating Parade, where rippling strings and a buoyant, rhythmic bass line create a groove reminiscent of Curtis Mayfield. This sets a contemplative tone, drawing listeners into Kiwanuka’s  world. The mood continues with the title track, Small Changes, which layers unhurried vocals and choir-like harmonies over a dynamic drumbeat, culminating in an emotive, piercing guitar solo. Rebel Soul celebrates individuality with a mellow jazz soundscape enriched by swirling electronics and an insistent, cyclical piano figure that conveys yearning.

The two-part centrepiece, Lowdown (Part I) and Lowdown (Part II), begins with languid riffs, dreamy keyboard layers, and intricate drumming paired with downbeat lyrics. Part II shifts into a wordless, strings-led psychedelic journey. Together, these tracks represent a daring exploration of sonic possibilities.

Follow Your Dreams inspires with soaring string arrangements that heighten its emotional charge, encouraging listeners to overcome self-doubt and pursue their aspirations. On Stay By My Side, Kiwanuka uses water metaphors to express boundless love, set against a backdrop of swirling electronica and skittering beats.

The calm and gratitude of Live For Your Love is a mellow and rich composition, with the stamp of Withers. The lyrics convey vulnerability and devotion, delivered by Kiwanuka’s measured and soul-stirring voice. Delicately plucked and strummed acoustic guitar chords lead into the funky The Rest of Me. This track has the warmth of 70s soul, and a groove that allows Kiwanuka to express gratitude to his partner while hinting at a new direction for his sound.

The album concludes with Four Long Years, a forlorn, heart-stopper influenced by the dream pop of Mazzy Star. Its layered textures and emotional depth leave a poignant and lasting impression, closing the album with quiet, melancholic beauty.

Small Changes is a beautifully crafted album that marries the sophistication of 70s soul, the groove of 80s R&B, and the introspection of 90s dream pop, and produces a very modern sounding album. Kiwanuka’s rich, resonant vocals perfectly complement the sincerity and thoughtfulness of his lyrics, weaving profound emotion into poetic imagery. Themes of love, family, and transformation are explored throughout, reflecting Kiwanuka’s personal milestones, including parenthood and his family’s move from London to Southampton.

The record feels like an intimate conversation—its gentle pacing, emotional warmth, and nuanced arrangements make Small Changes a rewarding and deeply personal listening experience. With its seamless blend of influences and bold steps into new territory, the album affirms Kiwanuka’s place as one of modern music’s most compelling voices.

John Bradbury

“Small Changes” was released on 15th November 2024 via Polydor Records

www.michaelkiwanuka.com

John Bradbury
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