What makes The Waves Pt. 1 by Kele Okereke notable?

The Waves Pt. 1 received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of genres and lyrical depth, landing on several year-end lists. It showcases Okereke's ability to address contemporary issues, resonating strongly within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, while also demonstrating his growth as a songwriter in the indie music landscape. Released on May 28, 2021, The Waves Pt. 1 marks Kele Okereke's first solo album since his 2017 release, Fatherland. This album comes at a time when Okereke has transitioned from fronting Bloc Party to exploring his identity as a solo artist, further delving into personal narratives and broader societal themes.

Who is The Waves Pt. 1 for?

The Waves Pt. 1 works well if you're into steady flow for reflective moments, intimate lyrics exploring identity and gradual rise in emotional depth.

How many songs are on The Waves Pt. 1?

The Waves Pt. 1 has 13 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

The Waves Pt. 1

Kele Okereke · 2021

49 min · 13 tracks · indie rock

A vibrant tapestry of electronic beats and introspective lyrics that explore themes of identity and belonging.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Message from the Spirit World — This opening track sets the tone with ethereal soundscapes and poignant reflections on connection, creating an immersive experience for listeners.
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They Didn't See It Coming — The track combines infectious rhythms with sharp lyrical commentary on societal expectations, demonstrating Okereke's incisive observations and musical versatility.
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Dungeness — Here, Okereke’s vivid imagery captures the isolation and beauty of place, serving as a metaphor for personal reflection amid life's chaos.
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The One Who Held You Up — This song explores themes of support and vulnerability, highlighted by its emotive delivery that resonates with listeners seeking connection.

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

The album effectively blends genres and explores personal themes, making it a notable entry in Okereke's solo career.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that blend electronic beats with acoustic elements, while the second half shifts to more introspective ballads.
Several tracks incorporate spoken word segments, creating a narrative flow that enhances the thematic exploration of identity.
The album includes a cover of 'Smalltown Boy', which is reinterpreted with a contemporary electronic sound, contrasting with the original's 80s production.

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 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 flow for reflective moments
intimate lyrics exploring identity
gradual rise in emotional depth
for quiet introspection

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on May 28, 2021, The Waves Pt. 1 marks Kele Okereke's first solo album since his 2017 release, Fatherland. This album comes at a time when Okereke has transitioned from fronting Bloc Party to exploring his identity as a solo artist, further delving into personal narratives and broader societal themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Bloc Party· James Blake· Hot Chip