[REVIEW] KAI is Sweet as a Peach in ‘Peaches’
Exactly a year after the release of KAI’s eponymous and critically-acclaimed debut mini-album, the soulful R&B performer added Peaches, a daring piece of work accompanied by an interesting storyline, to his musical repertoire.
Topping iTunes' Top Album charts in at least 58 countries upon its release, the six-tracked delivery is intended to showcase KAI’s most personal side. While KAI (开)was the introduction to what the artist is capable of, Peaches is meant to prove the direction KAI will follow as a solo performer.
The title track “Peaches” warmly welcomes the listener into a world filled with fuzzy, succulent fruits and pastel colors. Opposed to the impactful lead single “음 (Mmmh),”presented in KAI’s first and previous project, in “Peaches” KAI opts to take fans on a calmer yet still enthralling visual and auditory journey.
Taking inspiration from Tao Yuangmin’s The Peach Blossom Spring, a fable about a man who finds a utopia in which people can harmoniously live amongst nature, “Peaches” is a dreamlike piece that simulates the idea of finding love in an ethereal world that one can easily get lost within. Heading for a modern take on an originally traditional concept, the song itself is easy to digest yet still makes an impact, as it allows KAI’s honey voice to shine through.
The music video features beautiful scenery that alludes to a fairy tale that, along with carefully thought-out outfits, a unique concept, references to KAI’s journey as a member of South Korean boy-group EXO, an enticing choreography, and KAI’s expertise in the R&B genre, makes “Peaches” stand out from the rest of the releases of 2021.
B-Sides
Initially presented through KAI’s prologue film, the built-up excitement for the full-length version of “Vanilla” kept increasing after seeing its parallels to KAI’s debut teaser and noticing how he kept pronouncing ‘vanilla’ in a certain way to make it sound like he’s saying ‘I’m in love.’ Although KAI is usually recognized for his exceptional dancing mastery and stage presence, in “Vanilla,” KAI demonstrates his power through vocal ability displayed over relaxing background music. Accompanied by soothing vocal runs, falsettos, and mellow lyricism, the feeling the track creates is one of being wrapped by a warm, comforting blanket.
The memorable hip-hop-based track “Domino” shifts the vibe of the album, which so far had been relaxing, into a dance-inducing one. The confidence provided by the track is uplifting, in contrast to KAI’s lowered vocal tone that is present throughout most of the song. Its heavy trap beat and empowering concept leave a place for a dynamic performance to slide in and take the listener into an atmosphere filled with bliss.
KAI’s “Come In” is nothing short of a sweet love song, in which he invites his love interest to stop hesitating and give in to the feeling of falling in love. Coupled with synthesizers, layered bass, and vocoders, “Come In” is simply an addicting song that no matter how much you listen to it, it would be impossible to ever get tired of it. Additionally, the song’s lyrics make a reference to the first B-side track “Vanilla,” which reassures the idea of a storyline taking place in the album.
Vanilla, vanilla, vanilla
I want to kiss your sweet taste (Taste like)
– “Vanilla”
I tend to get tired of sweet flavors quickly
Yet somehow, you always feel new
– “Come In”
Peaches takes on a more pop R&B sound with “To Be Honest,” that contrary to its upbeat and fun aura, is a song that surrounds the theme of being stuck in an ambiguous relationship that creates insecurities and sentiment of uncertainty. Produced by Blaq Tuxedo, the same producer as the one who worked in Doja Cat’s “Streets” and KAI’s unreleased track “Confession,” the song contains a rhythmical main leaf, drum, and 808 basses that are charming and delightful in itself.
The album’s last song, “Blue,” is the perfect goodbye to the album due to its nostalgic lo-fi guitar sound supported by heart-warming vocal layering. The most personal track in the album, in “Blue” KAI sings about the hidden feelings of sadness and loneliness that lead to the inevitable need of being taken care of. KAI’s ability to naturally convey emotions through his voice constructs an unforgettable song that is inevitably catchy and ear-pleasing.
Peaches
Even though KAI’s career riding solo has only started, he is already proving to have a consistent and well-built discography that mirrors the artist’s long-time experience in the industry. In Peaches, the world-class performer’s true self is reflected through a meticulously selected track-list, with songs that can be related to one another without being tedious or unoriginal.
Not ever feeling dull, Peaches is a work of art and a world on its own that is easy to listen to and fall into. KAI’s self-awareness, good taste, and undeniable talent provide us with an album that is unlike anything released this year, and perhaps one of the best K-R&B pieces ever made.
Genius Rating: 5/5
