2042 cover

2042

Kele Okereke · 2019

61 min · 16 tracks · indie rock

A vibrant fusion of electronic beats and introspective lyrics that confronts social issues with poignant urgency.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Let England Burn — This track embodies the album's core themes of national identity and disillusionment, combining sharp lyrics with an infectious melody that invites reflection.
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    St Kaepernick Wept — Named after the controversial athlete Colin Kaepernick, this song powerfully addresses racial injustice and activism through evocative imagery and a haunting arrangement.
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    Cyril’s Blood — In this deeply personal track, Okereke delves into familial ties and heritage, showcasing his lyrical vulnerability against a backdrop of rich instrumentation.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with interludes
  • wave-like pacing with contrasts
  • thought-provoking themes and reflections
  • engaging narrative through tracks

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context
In 2019, Kele Okereke released '2042' as his third solo studio album, following his 2017 project 'Fatherland'. This album showcases a continued exploration of personal and political themes, reflecting his evolution as an artist after achieving fame with Bloc Party. The work marks Okereke's deeper engagement with socio-political commentary, highlighting his distinctive voice in contemporary music.
Stylistic neighbors
Bloc Party· James Blake· Hot Chip

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Jungle Bunny 3:50
  • 2 Past Lives (interlude) 1:16
  • 3 Let England Burn 3:37
  • 4 St Kaepernick Wept 4:23
  • 5 Guava Rubicon 3:42
  • 6 My Business 4:16
  • 7 Ceiling Games 5:45
  • 8 Where She Came From (interlude) 0:26
  • 9 Between Me and My Maker 6:00
  • 10 Natural Hair 3:45
  • 11 Cyril’s Blood 4:12
  • 12 Secrets West 29th 4:52
  • 13 Catching Feelings 3:24
  • 14 A Day of National Shame (interlude) 1:16
  • 15 Ocean View 4:28
  • 16 Back Burner 5:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata