Kings Kaleidoscope’s Self-titled Album is their Happiest One Yet.
In these Joy-filled songs, the indie band reflects on Grace and Self-acceptance.
On October 12, 2022, the indie Christian band Kings Kaleidoscope announced two albums on the way.
The first was Baptized Imagination released in the 28th, while their second was self-titled, originally slated for an April 14 release.
The band already split their output into two, they delayed the second album to work on it further, before finally releasing it on streaming in August 11.
Though coming from what I presume to be the same recording sessions, their newest release couldn’t be more different in mood and style than its predocessor.
The eclectic collective is well-known for exploring themes of childlike faith. However, their self-titled release is the most emblematic of this effervescent feeling.
Right off the bat, Kings Kaleidoscope (the album) is the most joyous and cathartic (in an ecstatic way) the band has ever been.
Yup, this is still what I call “The Greatest Band You’ve Never Heard Of.”
Considering the cycles of faith-wrestling present in their past discography, it’s nice to see the band sound like they’re in a better place.
They keep their music’s emotional resonance with their usual cacophony of brass instruments, thinly laden guitars, and layers of vocal harmonies, which include voices from children.
Only it’s arranged in such a vibrant and exciting way, having its spirits up without any sign or even an afterthought of any fortunate fall.
Though for its quick nine tracks and 27-minute runtime, it does serve some variety.
There are many moments I like, though I wished they would’ve explored more similar vibes and moments from certain songs.
Another thing to note is that when seems like it’s coming from a single emotional note, there’s depth in its joy.
Frontman Chad Gardner can be profound and rather complex in his songwriting, using ingrained metaphors that listeners may not pick up right away.
This album feels like it’s not really one rooted in self-doubt or pain, in fact, it’s not at all complicated in its narrative.
Like I said, it’s rooted in childlike faith, but also themes of self-acceptance, lots of love, whether directed to God or the people surrounding him, or the fruits of faith and grace.
Kings Kaleidoscope’s self-titled effort is in many ways unique for its unbridled joy.
A record more laidback and flowery than grandiose, but also, content on its own skin.
I’ve grown to accept that much of their newer catalog grows in age. I find it really good right now, but I can’t wait to see how much it’d grow on me soon.
After a kid (I assume to be Chad’s own child) gleefully singing “La la la
It can be anything that you want to be” for the intro, we get to Alright Kid.
It’s this wondrous opener with a laid synth line and a sax chorus about inspiring younger kids (or even one’s inner kid) to stay curious and free-spirited.
But I’m not into it as much as I want to. The song’s hooks are rather dreary and Chad’s almost unintelligible verse isn’t that catchy.
I’m still looking for that oomph in the song.
Forever Again is the album’s year-old lead single, I’ve heard this several times prior to this album, which affects how I think of this track.
It’s also a wondrous track, this time its boisterous joy about a childlike, simple sense of love can put a smile on your face.
The hooks here are much better, no matter if it’s a song all too familiar to Kings K listeners.
Oh girl, what’s that song you’re singing?
What’s your spark?
I see you’ve got the whole world in your hands
And sunshine on your heart
Radiant Reason, however, it’s where it’s at. That key change? Immaculate.
In fact, I enjoy the deep cuts on here a lot more than the singles.
Radiant Reason is such a Serotonin-filled number with its 90s mix of groove and Gospel.
90s Gospel influence for its thin synths and gorgeous harmonies, and groovy for that thick memorable bassline mixed with a rim-heavy drum section.
I can’t help but dance every time it comes on, singing about dancing with our God, and the brilliant reason for our joy in living.
I love how uplifting 123 Fantasy feels, Chad singing “Don’t you dream?” and the children singing in a call-and-response “Open up your eyes believe, 123 Fantasy” is the cherry on top.
Infinity is a more experimental cut on here, it sees Chad talking to God contemplating how even when he forgets and wanders, God still understand and loves him deeply. It’s sweet.
I wonder but I want you more
Infinity is just the floor
No matter what I’m searching for
I love you more than my reasons whyYou let me regret, You let me forget
It’s always dramatic, dramatic
Though I consider Story to be the album’s lyrical core, the more reserved single sees Chad in a stage of self-acceptance.
You don’t need a different story
Heaven only holds us broken as hell
Living in a tale of glory
It’s a miracle becoming yourself
Chad is saying to the listener that no matter where we go, we are still broken and imperfect on our own, so there’s no harm in being the individual God wants us to be.
It’s a really subtle track, and Madison Ryann Ward’s vocals even subtler.
All the Emotions is another single, though the song was tweaked for the album, being more stripped down and extended with a few strings and horns here and there.
I actually prefer the single’s almost cinematic intensity, with its thumping drums. Nonetheless, you’re not really missing out either way.
It’s also a love song, dedicated to his wife. That added layer makes the track even more sentimental.
And alas, we get to the closer, Kings Kaleidoscope’s song “Kings Kaleidoscope” off of their album Kings Kaleidoscope.
Fun fact: It’s apparently co-written by Andy Mineo.
It’s a short but sweet closer, from its bright keys, harmonius slap bass, and the memorable drum pattern.
It’s a song that uses the kaleidoscope as imagery for imperfections turning into something beautiful.
It’s the beauty of the broken light
It’s the symmetry of words unrhymed
Bring your poetry and I’ll bring mine
What are we waiting for?
In its chorus, the band also sings of God’s promise of safety even with all the storms and troubles. And of course, its more literal lyrics.
You’re a kaleidoscope
Be the kaleidoscope
We’re the kaleidoscope
With the final track being self-referential in a self-titled album, I can’t help to feel it’s like their closing song in general.
Their self-titled album is more dependent on repetition in its pursuit of joy. I’m not saying it’s a bad thing, in fact, I really like it.
Though it’s unlike they’d go on some permanent hiatus anyway,
Man, I hope they never stop.
This is an extended version of my album review on my Instagram: The Left Ear with Lee. Be sure to follow me on my socials (Medium, Instagram, Facebook).
Lastly, buy me a coffee if you’d like. Thanks!
