ORQUΓDEAS (Spanish for orchids) is Kali Uchis' fourth album, which was released on January 12, 2024. The album's release coincided with the announcement of her long-rumored pregnancy. As expected, the album lives up to the hype and delivers exceptional music.
ORQUΓDEAS is a lush, beautiful melting pot of R&B, Latin pop, Reggaeton, and more. Kali Uchis has masterfully blended familiar rhythms with fresh explorations in her latest album, resulting in a sound that is both cohesive and versatile. Whether you've been listening to her since Por Vida or just started with Red Moon in Venus, there is a song for you to love on this album.
What you should stay listening for...
It was hard to just pick 3 but here are the ones that instantly stood out:
With Peso Pluma as a featured artist, I was expecting a reggaeton banger akin to Labios Mordidos or a corrido like his breakout hit Ella Baila Sola but instead we get a smooth disco bop praising an angel of a woman. His singing style, usually guttural and raspy, smooths to butter here to compliment Kali's. It's an exciting and surprising turn for Peso Pluma and a disco first for Kali. Considering its popularity amongst listeners, I wouldn't be shocked if this turns out to be the 4th and most successful single from the album.
Personally, Kali is at her best when she delivers love letters as sexy, luxurious lullabies and that's exactly what this is. This one hearkens pleasant memories of her quarantine EP, TO FEEL ALIVE (specifically Honey Baby, a personal favorite). I instantly fell in love with this song. It may have been released early into the year but I fully expect this one to make it to the top 5 of my Replay 2024.
WHO KNOWS HOW TO DANCE MERENGUEEEE?! The last track on the album and a perfect close that only encourages you to play the album again and again. I believe this one samples the classic Suavemente by Elvis Crespo and maybe a merengue song I don't know the title of. I can't wait to dance to this one at a quince, boda (a must for mine), o carne asada. A new classic for Latinos to dance to and celebrate with.