Los Angeles – based musician Kadhja Bonet has been on my radar for a while now.  Having released some stellar music in the past, including the 2016 masterpiece The Visitor, her idiosyncratic take on neo-soul, psychedelic rock and jazz has been celebrated within the music community. She is back with an incredible new record titled Childqueen.

It’s beautiful seeing artists blossom creatively. Childqueen represents growth. Its bold experimentation is felt throughout the album, and as Kadhja mentions in the opening track “Procession,” “every morning is a chance to renew, a chance to renew.” These lyrics are not only powerful in message, but so relatable, especially for creatives around the world who constantly try and push themselves to innovate further. Sonically, this project pushes boundaries. The stunning string sections on tracks such as “Wings”  as well as the title track, give such a old school soul sound. They are amongst the many highlights of this project. The slow, funky ballad of “Delphine” highlights her vocal talents, but also puts emphasis on the atmospheric production that completely transports you to her magical, quirky and soulful universe. The psychedelic feel on “Mother Maybe” is another clear highlight, as the sound on this record complements once again Kadhja’s effortless vocal chops.

Overall, this project highlights Kadhja Bonet’s brilliant ability to innovate and push sounds and ideas forward into a cohesive body of work. With lyrical themes of growth, spirituality and love, this is an enlightening album that deserves to be recognised and talked about. A massive shoutout to Kadhja Bonet for the stunning work.

You can listen to Childqueen below via Bandcamp, and make sure to support this project in any way you can! Released on Fat Possum Records.