Rainydawg Album Review
Make Sure They See My Face
Kenna
Record label politics have been an astounding obstacle to which a weary amount of artists have had to hurdle. In Kennas’ case; been there done that, twice and counting. It started with his debut album New Sacred Cow (which came out about a year after it was mastered and ready for music store shelves), which turned out to be a cult success.
On his second attempt, Kenna looks to keep listeners attached to his faceless persona with Make Sure They See My Face (released Oct. 16th). A playful title nonetheless, Make Sure They See My Face is a tight-knit, inviting album that sustains anticipation from beginning to end. It captures an authentic approach to music, which in turn makes it more difficult to categorize his genre of sound. And like last time, Chad Hugo (one half of the super-producer combo The Neptunes) receives the production reigns, with a little help from Pharrell Williams.
Choosing “Daylight” as his first track was a poignant choice, in that it serves as an “awakening” to a new life, a light and fresh perspective to a cumbersome reality. Hugo enlists the “Neptune Sound” sparingly but effectively, which bodes well for the electronica stamp Kennas’ music receives.
Switching directions on a dime, “Out Of Control” plays more to Kennas’ previous prestige. His lyrics speak of distraught surroundings and careless reactions, an existentialist approach he was known for on his former album. It’s a track full of energy that will definitely keep the listener stimulated.
A more somber track that touches on an abstract chord is “Baptized in Blacklight.” In it he paints a battle of sanity, with lyrics like “Now I’m a criminal, who’s surrendered / Found my truth in consequence / Blind but guided, divided / My mind is born again.”
Once the beat of “Say Goodbye to Love” touches your eardrum, it’s evident that this is the track Pharrell got a chance to assist on. It is the second single off the album and has a radio-friendly feel, which will work in Kennas’ favor for more exposure.
The most emotional record from Make Sure They See My Face comes in the form of a request-ballad titled “Be Still.” This track provides a full band etiquette, with each instrument bare and visible. With that said, Kennas’ lyrics aren’t able to capture the same feeling. He uses a laid-back tone that attempts to comfort, but just seems to fall short.
On his last album, no specific song could be considered the “best,” but all were good enough to pass for a second listen. This time around, there is almost no question the most complete track is “Sun Red Sky Blue.” It features a colorful chorus anthem that emancipates Kennas’ lyrics justly.
It may be a valid assumption to say that a majority of his fan base has still yet to see Kenna’s face. But I guess that’s not as important as the music itself. Kenna is another prime example of quality without a façade image to hold.