by brittany and everly ormiston
R&B, alternative-pop sensation keshi is well known for his flawless falsettos, genre-defying style, and multi-layered instrumentals. He independently wrote, produced, and engineered his past three EPs, which quickly climbed the charts and grabbed the attention of listeners around the globe. Since then, keshi’s main focus has been to create an “opus record” like his musical inspirations of John Mayer and Frank Ocean. He hopes to have created a timeless work of art with his debut album, GABRIEL, released on March 25th via Island Records. Baltimore producer and songwriter Elie Rizk co-produced the album alongside keshi, which will add a new twist. This full-length album is keshi’s most honest and candid music to date, and allowed him to “process his life at the moment.” Listeners will catch a glimpse of keshi’s life inside and outside the spotlight with this record.
The album in its entirety appears to tell the story of experiencing love and loss. The tracks “GET IT” and “MILLI” have intense beat drops and drum loops that make you want to dance the night away. The lyrics depict being confident in your independence, and having the mindset to take on the world by yourself. The album progresses to meeting that special someone who unexpectedly sweeps you off your feet to the point it doesn’t feel real. ‘SOMEBODY” and “WESTSIDE” have an R&B, nostalgic feel with angelic, smooth vocals. You are mesmerized by that one person, and you want to be with them constantly. The lyric “Just don’t let me go // swear you’ll keep me close // when I fly to the westside // when I catch another redeye” in “WESTSIDE” illustrates taking every opportunity to be in their company while a bit of uncertainty still ensues.
keshi displays his wide vocal range in “TOUCH” by using baritone vocals during the verses, and higher vocals throughout the chorus. The storyline continues as you become more invested and intimate with that person, while at the same time knowing you are better off without the unspoken tension. You push that aside and now you are devoted to them. It’s gotten to the point where you don’t know what’s reality and what’s fantasy. “Is this hell or heaven // might be just the medicine” shouts keshi with emotion filling his voice as the female vocalist softly utters “Can’t afford to give it up // till it’s gone” in the background. The next track ‘“ANGOSTURA” follows suit as a serenade about being there for that special person through everything. Angostura is used to flavor alcoholic beverages, and in this song it may describe the intoxicating vibe and aura of your significant other.
The ballad of “UNDERSTAND” showcases keshi’s chill-worthy vocals accompanied by the gentle strumming of a guitar and an orchestra at the bridge. The track describes your significant other being your safe space, and feeling like home. “So I guess that it’s time I ask you to be mine for all my days // I hope you’ll stay” is the point in time where you choose them now and forever. The last three tracks of GABRIEL change course, and you are slipping into a downward spiral after your relationship is over. The uncertainty you had originally is back, but now you are unsure where to go from here and who you are without that person. The piano tempo in “ANGEL” leads into the chorus with intense guitar riffs and an addicting drum loop to make for a dreamy sad song. keshi’s vocals during the lyric “I thought you were an angel // I lost myself when I caught sight of you” are heavenly yet enriched in so much pain while bidding them farewell. You are reluctant to leave and are begging them to stay, but you watch them fade away into a distant memory.
“Before I leave // I see Gabriel” is the last lyric of keshi’s debut album. This phrase deems as a cliffhanger and has listeners dumbfounded. You have said goodbye to the person that has left an imprint on your life. However, seeing the angel Gabriel could mean you have received a message from a higher power and are working towards accepting it. Is the message to close the chapter of your life and move on, or pick up the pieces and fight for the one you love?