Album Review: YO MY SAINT feat. Michael Kiwanuka by Karen O
Alright, let’s dive into YO MY SAINT, the 2018 collab between Karen O and Michael Kiwanuka. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill rock album—it’s got that alternative edge, with vibes that feel both raw and polished at the same time. Released under Kobalt Music Recordings America, Inc., it’s clear this thing was crafted with care. And when you’ve got talent like Karen O and Michael Kiwanuka teaming up, yeah, expectations are high.
First off, I gotta shout out the title track, YO! MY SAINT. It’s just… wow. The bassline from Gabriel Moses hits you right in the chest—deep, groovy, impossible to ignore. You can tell Karen O poured her soul into this one; her lyrics feel personal but still kinda mysterious, like she’s letting you peek behind the curtain but not all the way. Michael Kiwanuka’s vocals? Smooth as butter. He adds this warmth that blends perfectly with Karen’s edgier tone. When they harmonize, it’s magic. Like, goosebumps-level magic.
Another standout is the overall vibe of the production. Daniele Luppi didn’t just produce—he added layers of organ, celesta, and strings that give the whole project a cinematic feel. It’s moody, dreamy, and kinda haunting, in the best way possible. The mix by Kennie Takahashi keeps everything tight without losing the raw energy. Joey Waronker on drums? Dude knows how to lay down a beat that feels alive.
But honestly, what sticks with me most is how this album doesn’t try too hard to impress. It’s confident, almost like it knows it’s good. There’s no forced drama or over-the-top theatrics. Instead, it lets the music speak for itself. Tracks like YO! MY SAINT remind me why I fell in love with alternative rock in the first place—it’s got heart, grit, and a little bit of swagger.
Reflection time: Listening to this album feels like walking through a dimly lit room filled with old memories and new emotions. It’s weirdly comforting, even though some parts hit hard. Oh, and here’s the unexpected remark—you know what this album would pair well with? A late-night drive through an empty city, windows down, wind messing up your hair. Just saying.
So yeah, YO MY SAINT might not be perfect, but it’s real. And sometimes, that’s even better.
