When you press play on Kehlani's self-titled fifth album, one thing is clear: Kehlani is a true student of R&B. Her new album confirms the place she has earned in today's R&B scene. If that wasn’t proven by her GRAMMY win earlier this year for “Folded,” the rest of the album makes it obvious that her voice is a force in the genre.​

Cloud 19 was her first mixtape, released in 2011, and since then, her career has included eight musical projects and five studio albums. The fifth being her self-titled, and indicative of a real insight that shows how far she has come and just how true she has been throughout her career. The gratification of earning her first GRAMMY 10 years after her first nomination is a real indication of all that she is and the love she has long been due.​

With production credits from the likes of Andre Harris, Don Mills, Khris Riddick-Tynes, Jimmy Jam, and Terry Lewis, to name a few, it is no wonder that the album has a rich quality as you play through the 17 tracks.  Sonically, there is enough variety to showcase different parts of Kehalni whilst still bringing it together in a way that is solid and definitely a contender for another GRAMMY if we do predict so ourselves.

The intro opens with spoken word on growth and “A voice stepping into its truth with no fears, no filters, no apologies.” The album’s first song features Lil Wayne on “Another Luva” and instantly recalls themes and sounds from her debut, SweetSexySavage. Lil Wayne is just one of the strong features here, joined by Virginia rap duo, R&B icons Brandy and Usher, T-Pain & Lil Jon, Cardi B, Big Sean, and Leon Thomas. Each feature adds its own flair, and Kehlani keeps pace with all.

Standout moments include the Brandy featured “I Need You”, which blends the voices of Kehlani and that of the vocal bible perfectly as they sing against the production of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, with Brandy taking a verse of her own and coming together about still needing a significant other after the end of a relationship. The Missy Elliott feature “Back and Forth” is an ode to Aaliyah’s back-and-forth, encapsulating her vibe across the tracks. Usher’s “Should’ve Neva” plays straight from the school of Usher and is a great blend of the two together in a regretful situation. Kehlani and Cardi B’s musical chemistry has been on display across two songs now: “Ring,” “Safe,” and now “Pocket.” The sexually charged sees Cardi bring a verse that will no doubt be a standout for fans. Leon Thomas’s “Sweet Nuthins” feels like the representation of the new R&B on the album. Having joined him on his last album, he returns the favour with a song that really shows the two of them as the voices of R&B that they are. Whilst the features do bring that element to the album. Kehlani’s solo performances shine on their own, thanks to the quality she delivers. “Cruise Control” is a smooth one that sounds like it would play nicely in the sun. The album closer, “Unlearn,” is a self-reflective track and a perfect fit for the album.

The album ultimately feels like a real lesson in love, reflecting Kehlani's present chapter with insight and depth. With this release, Kehlani not only reaffirms her place in R&B but also sets the stage for continued evolution. It is a testament to her growth, her authenticity, and the powerful journey she invites listeners to share. This project is more than a collection of songs—it's a resonant milestone that points to a promising future.