Kehlani – It Was Good Until It Wasn’t

Review

Kehlani's sophomore album, "It Was Good Until It Wasn't," emerges as a sonically sultry exploration of love's intricate dance. Released in 2020, this album draws you into its reflective labyrinth with moody, slow-burn melodies, particularly prominent in the opening tracks. With songs like "Toxic" and "Can I," Kehlani elegantly juxtaposes sensual tension with raw vulnerability, deftly capturing the perpetual tug-of-war between desire and dependency. Her knack for weaving deeply personal narratives into lush musical tapestries defines this collection's sophisticated charm.

A hallmark of "It Was Good Until It Wasn't" is its candor—especially in poignant tracks like "Bad News" and "Change Your Life," the latter featuring a delicate collaboration with Jhené Aiko. Kehlani's candid storytelling channels the aches of navigating toxic relationships and the tumultuous path to self-liberation. Rich with 90s R&B influences, the production shimmers with thoughtful flourishes: a gorgeous piano moment in "Water," a memorable saxophone riff in "Hate the Club," adding layers that dimensionally enhance her lyrical depth. Released amid the solitude of the pandemic, this record embodies a zeitgeist of longing and introspection, marking Kehlani's evolution into an artist of striking depth and soul. - Elodie