What makes Kala by M.I.A. notable?

Kala received widespread critical acclaim and was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Record of the Year. The album's lead single, Paper Planes, became a cultural phenomenon, achieving commercial success and resonating with themes of immigration and identity, which sparked discussions about race and representation in popular music. Released on August 8, 2007, Kala was M.I.A.'s second studio album, following her critically acclaimed debut, Arular. At this point in her career, she had gained significant recognition for her unique sound and politically charged lyrics, becoming an influential figure in the music scene. Kala marked a moment of artistic expansion as she incorporated a wider array of world influences and sounds into her music.

Kala works well if you're into steady rhythmic journeys, engaging background energy and dynamic and varied pacing.

How many songs are on Kala?

Kala has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Kala

M.I.A. · 2007

47 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A frenetic blend of global rhythms, punk energy, and electronic experimentation that challenges conventions and celebrates diversity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Paper Planes — This track stands out for its catchy chorus and sharp commentary on immigration and capitalism, blending sounds from different cultures seamlessly.
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Bamboo Banga — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious beat and a call to action that embodies M.I.A.'s ethos of political engagement.
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Boyz — This song encapsulates M.I.A.'s playful yet provocative style, mixing elements of dancehall with a critique of gender roles and cultural appropriation.
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Jimmy — Featuring a sample from a Bollywood classic, this track showcases M.I.A.'s ability to fuse disparate musical elements while addressing themes of longing and connection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album's energetic blend of global influences and punk spirit creates a distinctive sound that challenges norms.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast pace, maintaining this intensity through the first half before introducing more varied tempos.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional instruments and samples from diverse cultures, creating a rich tapestry of sound.
The sequencing features abrupt transitions between songs, often shifting genres and styles, which keeps the listener engaged but can disrupt flow.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

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

steady rhythmic journeys
engaging background energy
dynamic and varied pacing
immersive global soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on August 8, 2007, Kala was M.I.A.'s second studio album, following her critically acclaimed debut, Arular. At this point in her career, she had gained significant recognition for her unique sound and politically charged lyrics, becoming an influential figure in the music scene. Kala marked a moment of artistic expansion as she incorporated a wider array of world influences and sounds into her music.
Stylistic neighbors: Santigold· Grimes· Die Antwoord