Kelela review: Powerful R&B in thrall to past and future

Take Me Apart
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Artist: Kelela
Genre: R&B / Soul
Label: Warp Records

Over minimal 808s and delicate, precise synths that simmer, build and then implode, Kelela delivers an emotive album of powerful R&B tracks that move forward and nod to past influences.

Take Me Apart, the debut album from the American singer, has been a long time coming. Since 2013 her mixtapes and collaborations caught the attention of Solange and every R&B fiend going. She gathers the sensuality of Janet Jackson's Velvet Rope and the zero-gravity impact of FKA Twigs' M3LL155X and deconstructs them.

LMK is a bouncing club track that puts her in the power position of a hook-up. On Waitin', her textured voice leads the charge over clashing drum beats. Take Me Apart is an effortlessly cool and slow-paced sonic experience that will leave you completely mesmerised.