Khalid Donel Robinson, popularly known as Khalid, dropped his new album, After the Sun Goes Down, on October 10. Representing the Algerian artist's prowess, the 16-track album doesn't feature any other artists. The album reportedly comes after his LP, Sincere, which was released in 2024.
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Robinson revealed the album holds a transformational meaning for him and is about "taking his power back." From relationships to meeting with a "car accident", he elaborated that the album was inspired by life's fragility. Talking about the creative process, he added that he took inspiration from the works of "Rihanna", "Britney", and "Janet." He noted,
"I feel like with this album, I knew that I wanted to go back to pop, but I wanted to do it in the way that I felt connected to it the most. I look at this as more like an homage or just thanks to the icons that paved the way for me to be able to do this, and, a more current lens, as a now openly gay black man."
Note: This article reflects the writer’s opinion. Do comment with your suggestions to let us know which other items deserve to make the list.
Every track ranked from best to worst on Khalid's After the Sun Goes Down
We are taking a look at Khalid's new album and ranking them from best to worst:
1. Out Of Body
Released on September 26, Khalid displays his versatility, with a lingering sensuality and Arabic pop. The music video screams, 'gay and proud', while listeners embrace his new era. One fan on YouTube (@JTAEKKOOK4EVER) wrote,
"It's so amazing and lovely to see Khalid so comfortable in his own skin. His truth has never shone brighter and it is so beautiful."
2. Hurt People
The closing track of the album feels like a personal and vulnerable note by the singer. As Riff Magazine notes, it is Khalid's mother's voice in the background that adds to a soulful harmony. Perhaps indicating his past experiences, he sings,
"Oh I know hurt people hurt before."
At another point, he engages in storytelling and sings,
"No one wants the poison inside their veins, we all know that the ocean can’t stop its waves. And like a wilted flower that loses life, I crawl into my shadow and then I hide.”
3. In Plain Sight
Released approximately a month ago, the track is straight from the pop and dance world. One listener described the track as "a rebirth" of the singer, as he seems to bring forth a resilient version of himself.
4. Momentary Lovers
Momentary Lovers appears in the second half of the album, but has one of the most refreshing presences on the album. It reminds one of Khalid's older tracks, but welcomes a new age: a perfect drive song.
5. Nah
With Nah, Khalid further displays a pop prowess, making it an easy listen. The track brings out the singer's cool demeanour in rejecting a toxic relationship.
6. Medicine & Impulsive
Khalid announces his "new era" with Medicine. The track features a smooth tempo, creating a sensual ambience. Taking listeners back to the 2000s pop, he sings,
"I don’t do any narcotics, lovesick from breathing your toxins."
Impulsive features a similar theme, where the protagonist finds themselves "impulsively drawn towards the love interest." He sings,
"Cause I like to be impulsive, pulling your body closer, tugging on all your strings, you got just what I need”
7. Please Don’t Call & Rendezvous
Khalid invites his listeners to put on their dance shoes with the two tracks. Please Don't Call is fast-paced and upbeat. While in the second half, Rendezvous feels like a natural successor to Please Don't Call and has an irresistible charm.
8. Whenever You’re Gone
The track starts slow, almost preparing the listeners for a ballad, but quickly shifts gears into a full pop mode. According to Theaureview, the beats have been inspired by UK garage-inspired music.
9. Angel Boy
Angel Boy features Khalid's soft yet transitioning vocals, supported by solid upbeat music. The track reminds one of Troy Sivan's music, and a potential collaboration feels natural.
10. Dumbstruck & Yes Or No
Dumbstruck appears in the second half of the album, but it does get a bit monotonous by this track. While the catchy lyrics and electro beats try to keep the momentum going. Yes or No thematically presents a similar position in romantic relationships, but paints a warm picture of comfort.
11. Tank Top
As Theaureview notices, Khalid does his best to draw the listener's attention by "committing to 2000s sensibility." The track has an electronic vibe, but may not be on top of everyone's listening list.
12. True & Instant
The theme of insatiable love and affection continues in True & Instant. Although creating an europhic ambience, with crowd-chanting in True, the tracks have a redundant presence in the album.
Fans can purchase the vinyl and other merchandise on the artist's official website.
Which is your favorite track from the album? Tell us in the comments below.