Chilombo
Jhené Aiko · 2020
61 min · 20 tracks · contemporary R&B
A vividly introspective blend of ethereal melodies and confessional lyrics that seamlessly weave alternative R&B with neo-soul elements.
Top tracks — play these first
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Triggered (freestyle) — This track encapsulates Aiko's raw vulnerability, addressing emotional turmoil and heartache with unfiltered honesty, making it a standout reflection of her artistic identity.
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PU$$Y Fairy (OTW) — An exploration of sensuality and intimacy, this track showcases Aiko's playful lyricism and smooth delivery, embodying both confidence and allure within her sound.
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Happiness Over Everything (H.O.E.) — Featuring a collaborative spirit, this track emphasizes themes of joy and resilience, combining uplifting production with poignant messages about prioritizing happiness amidst challenges.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Chilombo showcases strong writing and production, balancing introspection with engaging soundscapes.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements, blending poetry with music, particularly in 'Triggered' and 'Define Me'.
- The production employs layered vocals and atmospheric instrumentation, creating a dreamlike quality that enhances the lyrical content.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like emotional ebb and flow
- introspective moments for reflection
- serene soundscapes for healing
- dynamic journey with resolution
- for late-night introspection
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of high-energy tracks
- prefer straightforward structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Chilombo is Jhené Aiko's third studio album, released in 2020 after her critically acclaimed 2017 project, Trip. At this point, she had solidified her position in the alternative R&B scene and was exploring deeper themes of self-discovery and healing. The album followed a period of personal growth and reflection, marked by her public relationship with Big Sean.
- Stylistic neighbors
- SZA· Erykah Badu· Kehlani
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Happiness Over Everything (H.O.E.)
The chorus shifts from focusing on personal struggles to celebrating collective joy, inviting listeners to embrace positivity together.
This structural choice creates a sense of community among listeners, contrasting the individual narrative with an inclusive call for shared happiness.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Lotus (intro) 1:12
- 2 Triggered (freestyle) 3:29
- 3 None of Your Concern 4:19
- 4 Speak 3:05
- 5 B.S. 3:32
- 6 PU$$Y Fairy (OTW) 3:41
- 7 Happiness Over Everything (H.O.E.) 3:08
- 8 One Way St. 2:54
- 9 Define Me (interlude) 1:48
- 10 Surrender 4:18
- 11 Tryna Smoke 4:29
- 12 Born Tired 3:15
- 13 LOVE 2:36
- 14 10k Hours 4:17
- 15 Summer 2020 (interlude) 1:45
- 16 Mourning Doves 2:47
- 17 Pray for You 1:54
- 18 Lightning & Thunder 4:28
- 19 Magic Hour 3:16
- 20 Party for Me (outro) 1:34
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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