The world's loneliest whale, 52 Blue, famously could only sing in a frequency other whales couldn't hear. It's a fitting inspiration for Kuda's latest EP that bears the poor creature's name. Through five tracks, Kuda articulates the duality of his existence—external success overshadowed by an internal void.
"Lift Off", the EP's opening track, opens with a defiantly funky beat. Each line feels like a cry to break the constraints, to refuse to be replaced or overshadowed by any person or any struggle. "Shrug it off, I still don't feel the pressure," he says. "Just don't be surprised when I let go."
Right in the middle, "It Ain't No Gift" delves into Kuda's hard-earned lessons on trust and self-reliance. The sparse chords and explicit lyrics paint a stark picture of the loneliness and betrayal he has endured. "I had to go through all that to learn who I am" underscores the pain and power he's gained from his experiences.
But not everything is always in Kuda's control. "Roll Da Dice" hits on the risks and gambles of his career. With its chopped-up intro, even the beat feels out of his hands. Yet as he promises, "When it comes to that vision, promise that I'll make it true," he brings line after line that weaves through the chaos and form something uniquely Kuda.
The EP concludes with "Nothin2Lose", a quieter, more introspective track. It's a final look at his life, both public and private, a final dive into the dichotomy of inner loneliness and outward success.
Stream 52 Blue below.
Ben is an advertising Madman who spends his days with words and music. When he's not writing for his supper, he's eating it at some of NYC's most interesting restaurants.
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