(5 / 5)
Michael Kiwanuka’s fifth album, “FUDGE” (stylised upper case) out today – 23rd October – is a beautiful record that arrives under very different circumstances from those originally planned.
Written and recorded around the same time as 2024’s “Small Changes”, it was due for release in 2025, but was put on hold. In September this year, Michael revealed that he had suffered a serious stroke in July 2025, which required emergency surgery and months of hospital treatment. He is now continuing his rehabilitation in Hampshire.
With Michael explaining that he does not know when he will be able to release another record, “FUDGE” has become a particularly important album.
Born in Muswell Hill, north London, Michael first came to attention with his debut album, “Home Again”, in 2012. His blend of soul, folk and r&b, alongside his distinctive voice and thoughtful lyrics, quickly set him apart.
He went on to work with producer Danger Mouse on “Love & Hate” (2016), before teaming up with Danger Mouse and Inflo for his self-titled 2019 album “KIWANUKA” (stylised upper case), which won the Mercury Prize in 2020.
His most recent album, “Small Changes”, continued that successful partnership, with contributions from musicians including legendary bassist Pino Palladino and US producer and songwriter Jimmy Jam.
For “FUDGE”, Michael decided to take a different route. Rather than returning to his usual production team, he began making music in a small studio near his home in Southampton, working closely with multi-instrumentalist Joe Connell, who helped bring his ideas to life. Producer Dom Monks later helped complete the recordings, while long-time collaborator Rosie Danvers contributed string arrangements. The album was recorded in Southampton and Frome.
The change in approach gives the record a more relaxed, spontaneous feel. There is a little tape hiss and roughness around the edges, but this only adds to its character. The result is a personal record full of ideas.
The opening track, “Summer Clothes”, begins with a recording of jazz pianist Chick Corea talking about the importance of knowing what you like and following your own sense of what is beautiful, setting the tone for the album.
The song itself has a gentle, reflective quality, while “California” brings Michael’s soulful voice to a melody filled with longing and a desire to find his way home.
“Just Another Moment” has a steady, almost hypnotic rhythm, while “Drowning in Your Heart” is a more intimate song, written for someone struggling with their own difficulties.
One of the album’s highlights is “Love in My Heart”. Lasting around seven minutes, it grew out of a jam session with Joe Connell and develops into a wonderful combination of organ, strings, guitar and keyboards. The music gradually builds, with psychedelic touches and a long instrumental passage that shows how much can come from giving musicians the freedom to explore an idea together.
“Across the Sky” takes a quieter approach with acoustic guitar, and lyrics reflecting on life and what we leave behind. “Stars” is one of the album’s standout moments, bringing a stronger, fuzzier guitar sound that contrasts with the strings and softer vocals.
There is a more romantic side to the record too. “You Sent Me Flying” is tender and understated, with gentle guitar and strings that gradually add to the song’s emotional pull. “Move In My Direction” has a similarly unhurried feel, while “Steve’s Paradise” brings together organ, electronic textures and layered vocals. The penultimate track, “Sing”, is particularly moving, and the final track, “Swings and Roundabouts”, brings the record to a thoughtful close.
Michael has always had a gift for writing songs that feel honest and relatable, and that remains true here. “FUDGE” is a wonderful showcase of his talent and the connection he creates with his listeners. A very special album, full of heart, beautiful melodies and honest songwriting.
Michael Kiwanuka is one of Britain’s finest singer-songwriters, and his music has touched so many people. Above all, I hope he continues to make progress with his recovery and returns to full health soon.
By Manja Williams
Photo by Marco Grey / MK portrait (album cover & headphones image) by Stevie Gee
(1 / 5) ‘Dull Zone’
(2 / 5) ‘OK Zone’
(3 / 5) ‘Decent Zone’
(4 / 5) ‘Super Zone’
(5 / 5) ‘Awesome Zone’
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