Kelela: New album 'New Avatar' and speaking out for Gaza

Kelela, known for her experimental approach to R&B and electronic music, has released her third studio album 'New Avatar'. On it, she returns to her indie rock roots, combining shoegaze influences with electronic elements. The new sound is unexpected but successful – guitars dominate, yet danceable rhythms remain.

Kelela crafted the album in close collaboration with producers Oscar Scheller and Asma Maroof, as well as artist Janiva Ellis, whose paintings inspired the record's aesthetics. For instance, the track 'Idea 1' was inspired by Octavia Butler's dystopian novel 'Parable of the Sower'. The musician admits the album is more personal and bolder than her previous work.

Beyond music, Kelela takes a vocal political stance. Last year, she joined over 400 artists in removing their music from Israeli streaming services as part of the 'No Music For Genocide' campaign, showing support for Gaza. She emphasizes that speaking out about injustice has cost her opportunities, such as brand partnerships, but that doesn't stop her.

During the making of 'New Avatar', Kelela used her 'White Bag' playlist – music that had previously been sold to her as white music. She aimed for a ratio of 'two-thirds guitar, one-third dance music'. The result is a dynamic album exploring personal and political boundaries.

Kelela's collaboration with PinkPantheress on the single 'The Bridge' demonstrates her influence on a new generation of artists. PinkPantheress notes that Kelela has expanded opportunities for Black female electronic/pop artists.

In the interview, Kelela reveals she never sought massive fame – creating avant-garde music is more important. 'That's the delicious thing,' she says.