But the linked instruments create a conversation between the songs. On “Bad Luck”, Khalid prefers a smoother, ascending melody, whereas “My Bad” has a jazzy stutter. The Good: “Bad Luck” and “My Bad” are both built around a cool guitar and fiery drums.
But compared to its predecessor, Free Spirit is more conventional and less focused. Khalid is still only 21 years old, and the transition from prodigy to professional is famously tricky. Of course, one of the pitfalls of relying on established hitmakers is that your songs can start to sound like other people’s songs. Now Khalid has arrived, and he’s teamed up with established hitmakers like Stargate, Disclosure, Hit-Boy and Murda Beatz. Back when he was working on his debut, he leaned on a mix of friends and up-and-coming ghostwriters. Less than a year later, he’s returned with his second proper album, Free Spirit. He cited Kendrick, Chance, James Blake, and Father John Misty as influences. Khalid captured the restless energy of high school, mixing conversational mumblings with a piercing, soulful baritone. Songs like “Location” and “Young Dumb & Broke” sounded like the first anthems for Generation Z. In 2017, American Teen brought fresh life to R&B. I wanted to be swooned by his smooth vocals and dreaming of this unconditional love but I was left a little bored and unimpressed.The Lowdown: At the ridiculous age of 19, Khalid released a nearly great record. It feels rushed and effortless and not in a good way.
With the sweet and reflective storyline I did expect it to be more in-depth and emotional but instead he just skims over the surface. “We don’t gotta hide it, this is what you like, I’ll admit. The song reflects on the ups and downs of a relationship and the importance of always being there for each other.
He could have been a lot more vulnerable vocally and showcased a more honest delivery but instead there is a lot of auto-tune and reverb happening. The moody RNB song that dabbles in hip-hop beats is a little monotonous and I think that really does come down to the vocal production. Sadly his new single ‘Better’ from his forthcoming sophomore record is a little on the snooze worthy radar. So really he did this to himself because he set the bar high. His debut album ‘American Teen’ was an impressive introduction into this very vulnerable and groovy world that Khalid lives in. By now I really do expect a lot more from Khalid.
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