What makes Ilp by Kwes notable?

Ilp received critical acclaim and was featured on several year-end lists, highlighting its artistic merit in the contemporary pop landscape. The album's unique sound also resonated with listeners, contributing to a surge of interest in alternative pop music during that period. When Ilp was released in October 2013, Kwes was establishing himself as a distinctive voice in the UK music scene following his debut EP, Meantime. This album marked his first full-length release after collaborating with notable artists like Lil Silva and Being. With a growing reputation for innovation, this record solidified his stance within the genre.

How many songs are on Ilp?

Ilp has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Released 13 years ago this October

Ilp

Kwes · 2013

42 min · 10 tracks · pop music

A kaleidoscopic blend of experimental pop and soulful melodies, weaving whimsical narratives through intricate soundscapes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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purplehands — This opening track showcases Kwes' ability to blend playful instrumentation with introspective lyrics, setting the tone for the album's exploration of personal themes.
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rollerblades — With its infectious groove and nostalgic references, this track encapsulates the album's whimsical nature while also highlighting Kwes' songwriting prowess.
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broke — This song features poignant reflections on financial struggles and self-identity, showcasing Kwes' talent for marrying deep lyrical content with engaging melodies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Kwes' 'Ilp' showcases inventive songwriting and production, creating a unique sound within contemporary pop.

What we noticed

The album opens with a track that features layered vocal harmonies and intricate electronic textures, setting a whimsical tone.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and unexpected instrumental breaks.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Tracklist

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

1 purplehands 5:13
2 36 4:03
3 rollerblades 3:45
4 cablecar 8:01
5 flower 4:37
6 hives 3:29
7 broke 4:23
8 chagall 2:41
9 parakeet 2:28
10 b_shf_l 4:10

What to play next

Listen next

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Kwesachu Mixtape Vol.1

2009

Full Kwes discography Artists like Kwes

pop music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata