In 200 Words: LK99 - Leven Kali

The first time I ever heard Leven Kali I thought I was listening to a Miguel song, and even on his most recent album LK99, that influence is still hard to fully tune out. Still, it never feels like a limitation.

The album carries a light, easy energy throughout. Now that it’s officially spring in NYC, it feels like just the right soundtrack for the season.

Leven went three for three on LK99’s singles; if the rest of the album is the foundation they remain the peaks. Are U Still is dynamic and shifting, Pieces taps into that Wildheart feel and Sleepwalking delivers an easy, catchy funk.

Elsewhere, the album settles into its groove, nothing too remarkable, but rounding a solid body of work.

Breathe opens with a strong bassline, using literal breaths to introduce the album before the production fully takes over.  Remedy and Starlet lean into romance and desire with Jus a Lil Bit taking a complete turn toward nonchalance. Even with clear filler tracks like Grab It and Raining Sun, the project never goes off course.

Overall, LK99 is a fun alt R&B record with crossover appeal. With credits for industry giants like Beyoncé, Playboi Carti and Drake, it’s nice to see Leven step into the spotlight claiming his moment.