kick iiii cover

kick iiii

Arca · 2021

36 min · 11 tracks · experimental music

A vibrant tapestry of experimental sounds infused with reggaeton rhythms, exploring identity and desire through bold sonic contrasts.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Whoresong Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Queer — This track stands out with its unapologetic celebration of identity, blending provocative lyrics with pulsating rhythms that encapsulate the album's core themes.
  • →
    Hija — A poignant exploration of motherhood and femininity, this song uses haunting melodies and intricate production to evoke deep emotional resonance.
  • →
    Lost Woman Found — This track combines ethereal vocals with atmospheric soundscapes, creating a sense of longing and introspection that permeates the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's bold contrasts and innovative sound make it stand out in contemporary experimental music.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a track that features layered vocal samples and a heavy bassline, setting an experimental tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate reggaeton rhythms, but they are often juxtaposed with abstract soundscapes and unconventional structures.
  • The sequencing includes abrupt transitions between tracks, creating a sense of disorientation that reflects the themes of identity and desire.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
9/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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 mid-tempo reflective vibes
  • intimate explorations of identity
  • pulsating beats for focused listening
  • short tracks for quick engagement
  • emotional depth in concise bursts

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, sprawling compositions
  • seek immediate high-energy tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Deliberate departure with bold contrasts, showcasing innovative sounds and themes.
Career context
By the time 'kick iiii' was released in December 2021, Arca was already recognized as a pioneering force in experimental music. This album followed their acclaimed project 'Kick I,' continuing their exploration of queer identity and avant-garde soundscapes while further establishing their role within the neoperreo movement.
Stylistic neighbors
FKA twigs· Sophie· Shygirl

Tracklist

  • 1 Whoresong Start here 2:15
  • 2 Esuna 2:19
  • 3 Xenomorphgirl 2:55
  • 4 Queer 3:30
  • 5 Witch 3:33
  • 6 Hija 2:46
  • 7 Boquifloja 5:22
  • 8 Alien Inside 2:05
  • 9 Altar 3:37
  • 10 Lost Woman Found 4:12
  • 11 Paw 4:08

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata