Small Changes

Released in late 2024, Small Changes marks a significant stylistic refinement for Michael Kiwanuka, following the Mercury Prize-winning success of KIWANUKA. Produced alongside long-time collaborators Danger Mouse and Inflo, the album leans further into the 'psychedelic soul' aesthetic while stripping away some of the more aggressive rock influences of its predecessor. The record is characterized by its exceptional use of space and texture, utilizing vintage recording techniques to achieve a sound that critics have noted feels both ancient and modern. The two-part 'Lowdown' serves as the album's centerpiece, showcasing the interplay between tight, bluesy grooves and expansive, ambient drift. Lyrically, Kiwanuka moves away from broad social commentary toward a more intimate exploration of self-acceptance and quiet resilience. It stands as his most cohesive and sonically consistent work to date, solidifying his position as a modern torchbearer for the sophisticated soul traditions of Bill Withers and Terry Callier.