Kygo releases his debut album, ‘Cloud Nine’

Kygo may very well be one of the most recognizable electronic acts in the world. A new type of headliner that shook up the old guard with a more mellow sound. Dubbed “elevator house” by some, and “tropical house” by many, there can be no denying that his sun-kissed style caused an obvious pivot in both EDM and the pop music’s sonic lexicon.

From his humble beginnings and string of highly-touted remixes, Kygo grew to become an international sensation. A globe-trotting, chart-topping artist that draws in millions of fans throughout the world. His debut album, Cloud Nine, comes at the peak of his popularity and does well to reinforce his position as dance music’s new pop missionary.

Cloud Nine is familiar in a way that will appeal to his tried-and-true fanbase. Clocking it at 15 masterfully pop-crafted tracks, the LP is an exercise in radio-ready songwriting and almost too catchy melodies with a feature list that serves as muse for Kygo’s sound. Months of teasers with unreleased music left a trail of breadcrumbs for many of the album’s highlights. “Firestone” and “Stole the Show” are still two of the strongest pieces on the LP, but it’s “Fiction” with Tom Odell and “Oasis” with Foxes that will capture first time listener’s attention.

It’s not all high notes however; John Legend’s contribution to the pressing feels more like a phone in than a proper collaboration and the Kodaline-fronted “Raging” doesn’t feel at home amongst the rest of the album. Fortunately, Labrinth’s “Fragile,” and the closing track, “For What It’s Worth,” round out the album in style, making for a tightly packaged debut whose feel good vibes are destined for another takeover of radio airwaves in the coming summer months.

Purchase now.

Categories: Music