Khalid Out of the Shadows: A New Era Begins with after the sun goes down
When the sun finally sets, Khalid steps into the spotlight. His fourth studio album, after the sun goes down, marks a bold new chapter in his journey — one defined by honesty, self-acceptance, and liberation. More than just a musical release, the project feels like a statement of renewal, a reflection of everything he has endured and everything he’s becoming.
The album arrives after a deeply personal turning point in Khalid’s life. In 2024, the singer was publicly outed by an ex-partner, a painful experience that forced him to confront parts of himself on a global stage. What could have been purely traumatic instead became transformative. As Khalid has shared, the ordeal pushed him toward deeper authenticity, inspiring much of the vulnerability and confidence woven throughout after the sun goes down.
Musically, the album dives into a lush blend of pop-leaning R&B, nostalgic synths, and late-night moods. Khalid has always had a knack for painting vivid emotions against soft soundscapes, but here, he experiments more freely. Tracks like “Instant,” “Tank Top,” “Angel Boy,” and “Yes No Maybe” feature collaborations with Tove Lo and Julia Michaels, adding texture and dynamism. The production moves between shimmering electro-pop and velvety ballads, each exploring facets of love — euphoria, heartbreak, lust, defiance, and self-discovery.
One of the album’s standout moments, “Out of Body,” captures Khalid’s new artistic fearlessness. It’s daring and sensual, a track that radiates freedom. “In Plain Sight,” another highlight, leans on a UK-garage rhythm that feels both nostalgic and fresh, while “Angel Boy” and “Yes No Maybe” flirt with mainstream pop appeal without losing Khalid’s emotional core. Adding a personal touch, his mother lends her voice to “Hurt People,” grounding the album in warmth and tenderness.
While after the sun goes down thrives on vulnerability and experimentation, not every moment hits with equal force. Songs like “Whenever You’re Gone” occasionally fade into the background. Yet, even in its weaker spots, the project feels cohesive — each track contributing to Khalid’s larger narrative of self-acceptance and evolution.
Ultimately, this album is more than just another addition to Khalid’s catalog — it’s a rebirth. He steps out of the shadows, unapologetic and unfiltered, inviting listeners into his world of late-night emotions and quiet revelations. It’s a reminder that sometimes the truest light comes after the sun goes down.
If rated, after the sun goes down, it easily earns 4 out of 5 stars — a compelling, heartfelt chapter in Khalids ongoing story of transformation.
Don’t miss your chance to experience “after the sun goes down” — you can listen to it now and enjoy the album from your favourite music platforms. Join the conversation and let the rhythm take over!
You can listen to ALBUM: Khalid — after the sun goes down here.
