Andrew Kelly & Stix - Aileen (Album)
"Aileen" is a 15-track collaboration between Andrew Kelly and Stix that showcases a range of emotions and styles. It also features contributions from artists like Morgan Gold, Kiran The Nomad, Donte Thomas, and John Wells. This project deepens into Andrew Kelly's complex mind state, offering expressive and impactful lyrics that resonate with listeners.
The album kicks off with a captivating self-titled intro that sets the tone for the journey ahead. The instrumental build-up and atmospheric production immediately reveal his personal endurance with everyday crises. He expresses that if he can’t pray to god, then who does he pray to? His life has been in shambles since his loss, and while it brings more fearful destruction in his path, he remains stagnant with the rest of the hope he has left to bear. “Laced” features Blvff & Morgan Gold, whose soulful vocals add depth to the reflective lyrics. The chemistry between Kelly, Blvff & Gold is evident, making this one of the standout tracks on the album. Featuring Kiran The Nomad, “Talk About It” explores themes of self-discovery and resilience. Kiran's unique delivery complements Kelly's introspective verses, creating a thought-provoking listening experience. Fee Fi Fo Fun” features an eccentric beat and witty wordplay, showcasing Kelly's versatility as an artist. The clever lyrics and playful tone make it a fun listen. “Narcos” slows things down with a more mellow and contemplative vibe. The introspective lyrics and soothing instrumental make it a perfect moment of reflection in the album. “Gingivitis,” featuring John Wells, blends poignant storytelling with a smooth, melodic beat. Wells' contribution adds depth to Kelly's already intricate lyrics. Andrew Kelly dives into themes of love and loss with a hauntingly beautiful storyline that stays with you until the project ends. The striking emotional delivery keeps you rejoining the project in replay value. The album closes with a reflective outro in “Proof” that ties together the themes explored throughout the project. The introspective lyrics and calming instrumental leave a lasting impression.
"Aileen" is a cohesive and emotionally rich project that showcases Andrew Kelly's ability to navigate complex themes and deliver impactful lyrics. The collaborations with various artists add diversity and depth to the album, making it a compelling listen from start to finish. Each track offers something unique, whether it's introspection, hope, or raw emotion, ensuring that there's something for every listener to connect with.