It’s not every day you hear about a DJ who could also sing their heart out on an EDM track, which is why LA-based singer-producer Kaleena Zanders stands out from the crowd on her newest single, “V I B R A T I O N.” In collaboration with Shift K3Y, Zanders’ latest is another edition to her unique style of self-described “gospel house,” an accurate description that rings true for all of her singles thus far. What separates “V I B R A T I O N” from the rest is how well her singing pairs with production that has one foot in the present and the other firmly in the 90s.
Initially, the track begins like your typical EDM track. But once the beat drops, it bears much more similarity to old school house and rave music. The piano keys and synths, in particular, sound like they’re pulled straight out of the 90s, proving that era’s timelessness decades later. Of course, it would be a crime not to focus on Zanders. Her vocal range is something to truly marvel at, not least because most EDM music lacks the quality she possesses.
Accurate with the gospel description, Zanders’s voice is reminiscent of the genre without coming off as an overt homage to the point of rehashing. And while her vocal capability might not be in line with the greats (yet), her voice is all her own, an aspect that not all singers share.
Last but not least is Shift K3Y’s collaborations, whose contributions are not quite front and center like Zanders but are worth mentioning at the very least because of how the track turned out. Zanders herself said, “he’s one of the most smoothest, tender and talented dudes in the game.” That appreciation for collaboration is not a one-time incident, as most of Zanders’ career includes features from other artists. By all accounts, her passion is evident in all aspects of her music. “V I B R A T I O N” is just a simple acknowledgment of that, with a good vibes message that no one could disagree with even if they tried.
Words: David Sosa
Listen to “V I B R A T I O N” by Kaleena Zanders and Shift K3Y on all streaming services. You can catch Zanders in San Francisco, Vancouver, and Detroit this spring for upcoming performances on the Rave’s Anatomy Tour with Dr. Fresch. Follow Kaleena Zanders on Instagram and Twitter for future tour dates and music releases.
This post may contain affiliate links. Ads and affiliate links are how independent blogs like Grimy Goods can operate and pay our staff. Thank you for supporting our work and being a part of our music community.
