Album Review: A Brief Nirvana by Khamari

A daring leap into the unknown of R&B.

Khamari is charting a course toward self-realization. The much-lauded emerging artist in the R&B scene is making daily headlines, but his focus remains on his craft. Displaying the sensibilities of a seasoned songwriter, he fuses established R&B elements with distinctive, personalized aspects. The result is his first full-length album, A Brief Nirvana, a concise and lyrically powerful work.

Khamari’s journey began in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts, where his heartfelt songwriting found a home amidst modern soundscapes. Proficient as a singer and musician, Khamari’s sound distills influences from iconic bands and artists such as The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, and Sly Stone to contemporary musicians like Kid Cudi and Mac Miller.

Following the release of his warmly received debut EP Eldorado, Khamari seemed to vanish from the public eye for over a year. However, he reemerged with the moving single “Doctor, My Eyes.” This release, coming a full year after his debut EP, signifies a transition between his musical phases as he gears up for the launch of his debut album, a testament to his personal and artistic evolution.

“Doctor, My Eyes,” influenced by the works of Jackson Browne, sees Khamari delving into his own experiences and aspirations for clarity and serenity. His grandfather’s voice, incorporated in the outro, serves as a personal touchstone and a source of wisdom for the artist.

The album commences with “Wax Poetic,” a track that presents Khamari’s struggle to find his voice. “I’ve been tongue-tied… words don’t come easy these days,” he admits, suggesting that artistry isn’t a free-flowing stream but rather something to be labored for. Khamari experiments with different styles, displaying his exceptional vocal abilities, from the stark aforementioned, acoustic-led “Doctor, My Eyes” to the gospel-infused electronic beats of “Drifting.”

A Brief Nirvana is a meticulously crafted album with a tightly curated arc in which every sonic element serves a purpose. Tracks like the sensual “Cherry Picking” and the contemplative “A Sacred Place” keep listeners engaged, while Khamari skillfully balances revelation and restraint throughout the album.

The introspective “These Four Walls” may highlight Khamari’s contemplative side, but it’s “On My Way” that he truly shines. This track is a breath of fresh air before the poignant finale, “Requiem.” The entire album, A Brief Nirvana, marks a significant milestone for the Boston-born artist, demonstrating his quest for independence and creative authenticity.

A Brief Nirvana is more than just an introduction to Khamari, attesting to his unique musical style and his ability to inject fresh perspectives into traditional R&B. With a focus on his personal creative ambitions, Khamari presents an album that defies trends and exudes authenticity, securing his place as a noteworthy new artist in the music industry.

Favorite Track(s): Doctor, My Eyes / Cherry Picking / These Four Walls