Out of Iceland, the band KALEO picked their name from the Hawaiian meaning for “the sound” or “the voice.” An excellent name for a band, KALEO, has undoubtedly succeeded in its quest to break through the airwaves.
Together since 2012, in the last decade plus, the band has managed to turn their brand of Blues Rock into an international juggernaut with hit singles such as “Way Down We Go” and platinum-selling records, including their 2013 self-titled debut and 2015’s A/B. Continuously moving forward with the soulful, powerful third album Surface Sounds in 2021, now four years later, they are back with MIXED EMOTIONS.
The band’s fourth overall studio album, MIXED EMOTIONS, arrives on May 9, 2025, through Atlantic Records and finds them pushing the boundaries of their sound yet again. Led by Vocalist/Guitarist JJ Julius Son, Drummer Davíð Antonsson, Bassist Daniel Kristjánsson, and Lead Guitarist Rubin Pollock assist in rounding out the team of passionate players. Dedicated to making the best songs possible, JJ Julius Son teamed with Eddie Spear (Zach Bryan, Sierra Ferrell) to produce MIXED EMOTIONS, and the results are pretty impressive.
Ten brand new songs start with the intense and rhythmic “Bloodline.” Pulling you along instantly, the catchy lyrics flow like water through the brilliantly smooth voice of JJ Julius Son. “USA Today continues with rhythmic arrangements, and “Rock N Roller” spreads a genuine Rock-n-Roll good time vibe.
“Run No More,” on the other hand, is a relatively smooth and emotional song that digs deep underneath your skin. Its catchy and rhythmic chorus will stick with you; it immediately brings on more electric sensations with “Back Door.”
This remains the album’s remainder dynamic, making for a balanced listen. For example, “Lonely Cowboy” is soul-soothing with a gentle arrangement and amazing vocals, “The Good Die Young” is highly emotional, and “Legacy” spreads hope and strength again, helping you out of the hole you might have fallen into before. Rounding it all up are the thoughtful “Memoirs” and mystical “Sofðu Unga Ástin Mín” that pierce your heart.
A bold new entry into their body of work, KALEO’s MIXED EMOTIONS takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride. Beautiful arrangements, smooth singing, and wonderful rhythms quickly invade your ears and spread from head to toe. Despite its calm appearance, the album has enough intensity and rugged moments to engage you fully. Each song has its unique spirit, which is why Cryptic Rock proudly gives the healing properties of MIXED EMOTIONS 5 out of 5 stars.
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