"K 2.0" marks the return of Kula Shaker to the scene in February 2016, after 6 years since their last work.
The group led by Crispian Mills (aka Krishna Kantha Das) is known for its Indian-inspired sounds, often even in the lyrics. One of their successful singles was "Govinda", from the album "K" (1996).
The album is preceded by the single "Infinite Sun" and I was already rubbing my hands in anticipation of an excellent final product, almost worthy of their early work. I was very optimistic.
The track features a purely Raga Rock structure, with a clear use of sitar and tablas, showcasing relaxing, captivating, fresh, and trippy melodies in the right amount.
Well... in all honesty, this track (which also marks the beginning of the album) will remain the only truly positive note of the album.
If it was meant to be an attempt at "updating" their debut masterpiece... no comment.
"K 2.0" presents itself as an album with two faces: one of Psychedelic Rock "à la Kula Shaker" and another of Acoustic Rock, almost Country, which predominates for 70%.
As you may have already figured out, I was quite disappointed.
I love Country music and Acoustic Rock but here, alas, we are faced with tracks that are anything but memorable, decent but not worthy of this name (as evidenced by the trio: "Holy Flame", "Death Of Democracy", "Love B (With U)"). Tracks that often risk being banal/boring.
Fortunately, there is the Psychedelic part that offers some distinct cues with "Here Come My Demons" and "Mountain Lifter", respectively tinged with Stoner and Middle Eastern spices. Tracks that act as a wake-up call after the drowsiness induced by the previous acts.
All in all, the final product is sufficient (although meager) but I remain with a lot of perplexity.
Tracklist
Loading comments slowly