Marlon Asher ADD

Review

Album Review: Keznamdi - Blxxd & Fyah

08/30/2025

by Munchy

Angelic, almost hypnotic, Kelissa’s tender chants draw us into the captivating sonic universe of her brother Keznamdi and his second album Blxxd & Fyah. Following his highly acclaimed debut Bloodline in 2020, the Kingstonian singer returns this summer with a powerful new body of work comprising 13 compelling track that impress both musically and lyrically.

The monumental opening track, aptly titled I Am, delves into the “omnipotent-ness of the word God“and takes listeners on an evocative journey through human history – from ancient Egypt and the crucifixion of Jesus to our own personal origin stories, starting with birth and cutting the cord. Delicate flute melodies and a plaintive violin create goosebumps, before the rising choir adds emotional dynamic.

The mystically African-inspired soundscape seamlessly transitions into a quote by Dr. Arikana Chihombori Quao, a medical doctor and acitivist, as she speaks on the shocking “pact for the continuation of colonization in Africa”. She is not the only one given voice through original recordings: Keznamdi also includes a passionate excerpt from a speech by his father Errol “Chakula” McDonald – a singer, musician and devoted member of the Rastafari community himself – urging unity and “to come together as an executive body and identify what we want to do.” These original recordings are as moving as they are motivating.

Keznamdi’s lyrics, too, are rich with historical references about Paul Bogle and the Morant Bay Rebellion or Marcus Garvey; they offer sharp critiques of political and social developments, while also delving into personal and emotional themes of gratitude, appreciation, love, and spirituality. Pressure addresses the economic burdens caused by minimum wage, rising prices, and resource scarcity, highlighting a political landscape more consumed with itself than with the struggles of the people. Identity Crisis tackles the dangers of new media, where an entire generation, “glued to the screens”, risks sacrificing truth in the pursuit of likes and views.

Keznamdi, describing himself as a songwriter, largely self-produced the album, with select tracks co-produced by VAS Productions, Major Seven, and keyboardist Llamar “Riff Raff” Brown. Besides his sister Kelissa, guest features by Masicka, Mavado, and Marlon Asher enrich the album with precisely calibrated and beautifully harmonious performances. A vibrant and spirited cover of Toots Hibbert’s Pomps and Pride is a radiant highlight.

In the track list each song is thoughtfully placed, contributing to a layered narrative centered on the theme of Colonial Bondage. Musically, the artist remains rooted in his Jamaican Reggae heritage while skillfully blending classic elements like the drumming with fresh textures and compelling beats, resulting in a contemporary and modern sound. With Blxxd & Fyah, Keznamdi created a holistic and truly accomplished body of work that is both thematically profound and musically diverse.

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