No matter how involved you were in the long legal battles and #FreeKesha movement that came after the singer accused music producer Dr. Luke of physical and emotional abuse, according to The New York Times, you’ll want to listen to her newest album “Rainbow.” Though there are still legal ties between Luke and Kesha, the album is untouched by Luke and offers fans a very close look into the woman Kesha has become.
While many might expect “Rainbow” to be a dark, sad collection chronicling her journey, it instead presents a wide array of emotions and experiences with an overarching message of strength. Kesha does powerfully reference the troubles that she faced, such as on the single “Praying,” but she also speaks about the importance of being able to move on from hardships and not being beaten by hardships, ideas that are communicated in songs like “Rainbow” and “Learn to Let Go.”
For individuals who weren’t a fan of the pop music Kesha produced before, don’t be put off. “Rainbow” focuses heavily on experimentation, particularly with rock and some country sounds, and Kesha’s raw vocal talent. While she obviously has songs on the album that will fit perfectly on the charts, many of the songs on the record are unconventional and show the singer’s growth. “Woman,” a song done in collaboration with The Dap-Kings Horns, is a nice example of this. With Kesha’s still sassy attitude, she proves how well she can sing, yet there are parts of the song where you can hear Kesha laugh and even speak in the background, making the audience feel as if they’re there in the studio with her.
The album, on the whole, is a nice balance between the silly Kesha that debuted in 2010 with a unique outlook on the world and the mature Kesha with a lot to say and a powerful way to say it. “Rainbow” is a must listen for those who have followed Kesha’s journey or any music lover.
Must listens: “Bastards”; “Rainbow”; “Finding You”
Surprising collaborations: “Old Flames (Can’t Hold a Candle To You)” Feat. Dolly Parton, “Boogie Feet” Feat. Eagles of Death Metal”
Classic Kesha: “Godzilla”; “Hunt You Down”
Photo Credit: C. Lutz
Caption: Kesha is reborn again on her new album “Rainbow”, something fans and critics will love.
