There’s a good chance that you’re a fan of Keys N Krates because of “Dum Dee Dum.” No need to be ashamed of it – the single helped KnK break through tremendously in 2013 and rocketed them to the forefront of trap and live electronic music. Now five years later, the trio are here with their debut album Cura, and it’s all we wanted and more.
Rather than the hard trap beats of years past, fans will be immediately met with shimmering synths and melodies and stripped down hip hop beats reminiscent of the 2000s. In fact, there’s really only one song that could be classified as trap, “Flute Loop” with Ouici. As its name implies, the track makes some wild use of a flute and crisp 808s that provide the bulk of the melody and rhythm for the whole thing. It’s no doubt Keys N Krates’ unique style of trap and it’s a welcome respite from the beat-laden album right in the middle.
The remainder of the album shines in its use of minimalism and simplicity. It’s hip hop, disco, R&B all rolled into one slender package that’s easy on the ears and your time. The 9-track album clocks in at 26 minutes, meaning you can easily breeze through the whole thing in normal city traffic to any destination.
Check out Cura below.
The album is supported by an extensive headlining world tour, with North American dates that kicked off on January 24th in Buffalo, NY and will run through the spring. The group will make festival appearances at Ultra Music Festival and the recently announced Sónar Hong Kong. Shortly following, they embark on European dates, and circle back for a homecoming show at Toronto’s Danforth Music Hall on May 11th.
