More on: Kenna

Label: Star Trak
Release Date: 28/04/08
Rating:

With a beat that sounds like a direct port from an N.E.R.D album and a lorry load of crisp effects, it's safe to say The Neptunes' production of 'Out Of Control' has left its mark on the single. Kenna should be thanking his lucky stars though, because it sounds absolutely brilliant.

Flowing through the angst-packed lyrics with finesse and a snarl or two, sadly held back by the pop sensibilities of the song, the Ethiopian-born American still adds plenty of soul to the heady mix of throbbing beats and post-rock guitars. What quickly becomes noticeable (or rather, not noticeable) is the silky smooth manner in which fragments of electronica, synth pop and a peppering of rock blend together impeccably throughout the song. Kenna and The Neptunes have created Southern Comfort, rather than the Deep South ASDA own brand that represents the outcome for many an artist wanting to 'diversify' their sound. The different genres represented here are blended expertly into a seamless cocktail that avoids the curious aftertaste often left by the poorly-mixed supermarket equivalent.

It may be a bold statement to make at this early point, but if Kenna continues rocking polished gems like this, Pharrell Williams may have found someone worthy of carrying on his moniker for the next generation.

Graham Drummond

Kenna Official Site
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