We haven’t heard a lot from Kimbra since her 2014 release, The Golden Echo, but it sounds like that’s going to be changing very soon. Today she’s shared a new track that’s reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s sparkling and soulful ’80s pop. For her part, Kimbra has worked with several of the musicians who helped work on MJ sessions back in the day. She told me in an interview for Consequence of Sound in The Golden Echo era that she worked with one of the drummers who used to lay down beats for Jackson. It’s also worth noting that she was collaborating with Thundercat back then, before he really started to blow up.
For this track, though, which is called “Sweet Relief,” she’s enlisted London producer Redinho, and according to Stereogum, will be going into the studio with John Congleton to work on her third album very soon.
Here’s what the New Zealand pop star had to say about the track:
‘Sweet Relief’ came from a season of experimentation where I took time to work with some upcoming artists and producers that I love. I’m a big fan of Redinho’s work. We made this track together in London. It highlights our shared love of warped funk and groove royals like Prince and Janet Jackson. For me, the song explores the push and pull of human desire for intimacy, the tension and power of touch, and a liberation of the senses. I’m about to start recording my third album, which is already going in new directions for me, but I really wanted to share this song before I embark on that new endeavor.
Listen above.
