A monumental opening statement. The track begins with a five-minute, heroic instrumental overture of sweeping strings and aching guitar solos before Kiwanuka’s weathered voice enters, confessing, “Bleeding, I’m bleeding… I can’t stand myself”. It’s a stunning exploration of unrequited love and a lack of self-worth, setting the tone for the album’s raw honesty.
Performed the prominent string arrangements throughout the album. Rosie Danvers : Handled many of the string arrangements and played cello. Graham Godfrey : Provided drums and percussion on multiple tracks. Backing Choir: Extensive backing vocals from singers like LaDonna Harley-Peters , Phebe Edwards , and Paul Boldeau
To help him navigate this complex emotional terrain, Kiwanuka enlisted a trio of formidable producers: the legendary Danger Mouse (Brian Burton), the rising star Inflo (Dean Josiah Cover), and Paul Butler, who had helmed his debut. The album’s recording sessions spanned multiple iconic studios across London and Los Angeles, including The Sound Factory, Metropolis Studios, RAK Studios, and even the secluded Chale Abbey on the Isle of Wight. This transatlantic approach fused the raw, vintage textures of ‘70s soul with a modern, polished production sheen, resulting in a sound that was both timeless and utterly contemporary.
A darker, more atmospheric piece that showcases Danger Mouse’s signature production style—moody, textured, and immersive. Michael Kiwanuka - Love Hate -2016- -FLAC-
Kiwanuka wrestles with identity, self-doubt, and the struggle to find peace in a chaotic world [1].
Love & Hate was critically acclaimed upon release, with many reviewers pointing out that it was a "phenomenal album" and an "enormous step up" for Kiwanuka, solidifying his reputation as a unique artist rather than just a folk singer.
Released on July 15, 2016, "Love Hate" is Kiwanuka's third studio album, following the success of his debut album "Home Again" (2012) and "The Singer" (2015). The album was produced by James Bay and Paul Epworth, and features a mix of folk, soul, and psychedelic rock elements. "Love Hate" was recorded at RAK Studios in London and features contributions from a range of talented musicians, including Kiwanuka's longtime collaborators, Tom Herbert and Dan Haxall. A monumental opening statement
Following his highly acclaimed 2012 debut Home Again , which earned comparisons to Bill Withers and Otis Redding, Kiwanuka spent four years stepping out of his "emotional cocoon". The result was Love & Hate , an album heavily influenced by the social anxieties, identity struggles, and relationship failures of its era. Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Michael Kiwanuka - Love And Hate (CD)
Tracking down his (like his self-titled 2019 masterpiece KIWANUKA or 2024's Small Changes )
What (headphones, speakers, DAC) you are currently using. Backing Choir: Extensive backing vocals from singers like
Kiwanuka’s voice sits at the center of this storm—a weathered, timeless instrument reminiscent of Bill Withers, Otis Redding, and Terry Callier, yet entirely his own. Track-by-Track Sonic Highlights 1. "Cold Little Heart"
A more lively and groove-oriented track, featuring emphatic horns and a thick, foregrounded drum sound that hints at Danger Mouse’s production fingerprints. Its satisfying chord cycle provides a moment of lighter relief amidst the album’s weight.
(Dean Josiah Cover): A major collaborator who co-wrote and produced much of the album. Paul Butler
When Michael Kiwanuka released his sophomore album, Love & Hate , in July 2016, the musical landscape was undergoing a quiet revolution. The initial wave of the 21st-century soul revival, driven by vintage pastiche, was giving way to something more experimental, urgent, and introspective. Shaking off the polite folk-soul comparisons to Bill Withers that characterized his 2012 debut Home Again , Kiwanuka delivered a sweeping, cinematic epic that combined psychedelic rock, symphonic soul, and raw gospel.