Kala
by M.I.A.
User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 325 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 288 out of 325
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 325
  3. Negative: 23 out of 325

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  1. LuizCC
    Oct 2, 2011
    10
    Epical! It's just the adjective I can use to explain the mixing of references and beats that one of the most reminding singer ever done. Maya Aralprugasam a.k.a. M.I.A. returned after her acclaimed start "Arular" with more power (like she herself says in "Bamboo Banga", one the greatest songs of this album). When the urban culture got down with the African beat, it turned into a CD thatEpical! It's just the adjective I can use to explain the mixing of references and beats that one of the most reminding singer ever done. Maya Aralprugasam a.k.a. M.I.A. returned after her acclaimed start "Arular" with more power (like she herself says in "Bamboo Banga", one the greatest songs of this album). When the urban culture got down with the African beat, it turned into a CD that contains pearls like "Paper Planes", "XR2", "Jimmy" e "World Town". The great difference for the first CD is that this one bring the power of the streets, and not just the powerbeat from Africa. This mixing is the special thing, the X-Factor, that makes this, one the shinny albums ever.… Expand
  2. DizzY.
    Aug 27, 2007
    9
    Vibe listen carefully, open your mind. MIA is great.
  3. BillyB
    Aug 30, 2007
    2
    Posh girl from a theatre school tries rapping, claims dad was a tamil tiger freedom fighter for a bit of respect...there is some creativity here but you're listening to a fairly posh londoner not someone particularly cool, bucky gun dun was an OK tune off the last album Arular but all in all fairly weak and not a hugely original artist imo...if she continues to sell not too many Posh girl from a theatre school tries rapping, claims dad was a tamil tiger freedom fighter for a bit of respect...there is some creativity here but you're listening to a fairly posh londoner not someone particularly cool, bucky gun dun was an OK tune off the last album Arular but all in all fairly weak and not a hugely original artist imo...if she continues to sell not too many records she'll stay cool, if she does sell records the cred will go in a second - that type of artist....anyone who releases an LP entitled piracy funds terrorism is a record company gimp...a collab with Will Smith would seem to make sense...don't download - buy the record.… Expand
  4. MikeL
    Oct 6, 2007
    3
    Don't feel it. Don't like her voice, the beats annoy me. Not something I could listen to in any situation. I like Justice, Battles, !!!(chk chk chk), and this just does not work for me. I really tried to like it, but I can't.
  5. ByronG.
    Aug 30, 2007
    1
    I cannot believe that people actually consider this to be music. It brought to mind the children's tale "The Emperor's New Clothes."
  6. SparkD
    Sep 4, 2007
    2
    We hate UK rappers !
  7. JoeyK.
    Feb 14, 2008
    0
    The most OVER hyped, OVER rated album of the year. Combining obnoxious terribly off key vocals and contrived over thought out beats that are all painfully sporadic. The worst album of the year by far.
  8. ErikH
    Aug 21, 2007
    3
    "Kala" wants to be a politically-charged hip-hop album with heavy dance influences. It ends up being a mostly forgettable album with a few highlights ("Mango Pickle Down" as a hip-hop song and "XR2" as a dance track). The Streets proved with "Original Pirate Material" that an incredibly unorthodox hip-hop delivery combined with a dance influence could produce surprisingly great results. "Kala" wants to be a politically-charged hip-hop album with heavy dance influences. It ends up being a mostly forgettable album with a few highlights ("Mango Pickle Down" as a hip-hop song and "XR2" as a dance track). The Streets proved with "Original Pirate Material" that an incredibly unorthodox hip-hop delivery combined with a dance influence could produce surprisingly great results. Perhaps it's because Mike Skinner knew his limitations and rather than trying to ignore them, played to them to create a sound that was all his own and kept things relatively simple and effective. M.I.A. only knows how to set everything to kill and because of going too-far too often, this album is a convoluted mess. I really don't understand how her music deserves the merits it receives. She's the Joanna Newsom of hip-hop.… Expand
  9. 1fastdog
    Aug 30, 2007
    5
    The most over-rated and over-hyped record since that crappy Joanna Newsome album from last year. Sorry folks, but this is a mediocre album at best. For all the high praise given to this album's beats and sonic experimentalism, it's a strangely flat album and is sadly bereft of both energy and hooks. Bamboo Banga makes for a disappointing 1st track; it's crying out for some The most over-rated and over-hyped record since that crappy Joanna Newsome album from last year. Sorry folks, but this is a mediocre album at best. For all the high praise given to this album's beats and sonic experimentalism, it's a strangely flat album and is sadly bereft of both energy and hooks. Bamboo Banga makes for a disappointing 1st track; it's crying out for some fire, but, sadly, never gets any, relying instead on an ultra-repetitive beat that is almost dead on arrival - the lyrics match the beat: ultra-repetitive and ultimately boring. The rest of the album veers from the horrible (Hussel, Mango Pickle Down River), to the very interesting (Jimmy), to the brilliant (Paper Planes). In short, it's a scattershot listening experience in which a few really bad songs are counterbalanced by a few really good ones with everything else strongly in the "meh" category - hence the 5 rating. A good album for the hard core fans, but a Caveat emptor for everyone else...… Expand
  10. ProjectGSX
    Feb 27, 2008
    3
    Just terrible. I tracked down this album after seeing its glowing reviews and I have no clue what the fuss is about.
  11. JohnA.
    Jan 5, 2009
    7
    Gorgeous.
  12. JakeM
    Oct 25, 2007
    9
    Amazing album! Possibly one of the best of the year. It's so good to hear something original these days. I highly recommend this album! Best songs are Paper Planes, 20 Dollar and Jimmy
  13. FernandoV.
    Dec 4, 2007
    10
    This album is dangerous to my health. My neck and shoulders are eternally sore from popping, locking, and nodding.
  14. matta.
    Aug 18, 2007
    9
    I knew there would be at least one douche bag critic who would ruin the score for this album. Just as good as Arular but it isn`t a debut and so it won`t get nearly as much love as it should. A few just okay moments (first single Boyz is the worst song on the album), but so many classics, especially $20, Paper Planes, Jimmy, XR2, etc.
  15. MarkusS
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    No words can express how great this record is. Album of the year this far. Not listening to this album means not listening to the new kind auf "worldmusic"
  16. IanC.
    Aug 20, 2007
    10
    Even though it's certainly rough around the edges, if Kala is anything it's momentous, but its reviews don't reflect that. How is it that the mode score seems to be 80? I don't want to accuse a critic of copping out because he is afraid of not understanding an album that everyone else glowingly reviews, but if you've ever written about music, you know it's a Even though it's certainly rough around the edges, if Kala is anything it's momentous, but its reviews don't reflect that. How is it that the mode score seems to be 80? I don't want to accuse a critic of copping out because he is afraid of not understanding an album that everyone else glowingly reviews, but if you've ever written about music, you know it's a temptation. From my point of view, this album could be nothing if not ~10 or ~0.… Expand
  17. michaelt
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    Pivotal
  18. RealistJoe
    Sep 4, 2007
    8
    Good on M.I.A. for coming out with an interesting second record. Her production on this album is stellar, and given her limited resources, and aesthetic for wanting things done cheaply, it comes off great. Props to her for great diversity in her production, outlook and musical/artistic taste.
  19. TalesR.
    Sep 4, 2007
    10
    I really recommend this album, is an experience.
  20. Kumuthanx
    Jun 11, 2008
    10
    MIA is excellent! talented. a genius. her music is like abstract art. only some of you will "get it".
  21. PaulaK.
    Jul 4, 2008
    10
    Crazy.Cool.Hot.Nice..
  22. mark
    Aug 19, 2007
    10
    "Arular" was one hell of a masterpiece, so my expectations for this album were insanely high. I was not disappointed. "Kala" is just as great, if not better. M.I.A. truly is one of the best, most original artists of our time.
  23. [Anonymous]
    Aug 20, 2007
    9
    A completely worthy follow-up to Arular. M.I.A. still blends every style you could think of (even disco - see "Jimmy") and makes it work. It's interesting, catchy, and with the political overtones that M.I.A. is known for. It's more feminine, there's quite a bit more singing than there was on Arular, but don't expect anything conventional popstars would even dream of. A completely worthy follow-up to Arular. M.I.A. still blends every style you could think of (even disco - see "Jimmy") and makes it work. It's interesting, catchy, and with the political overtones that M.I.A. is known for. It's more feminine, there's quite a bit more singing than there was on Arular, but don't expect anything conventional popstars would even dream of. ("Boyz" is probably the closest you'd get.)… Expand
  24. DavidG.
    Aug 26, 2007
    10
    Pop/Rap brilliance encapsulated in a surprisingly, refreshingly digestible smörgåsbord of world music.
  25. McLovin
    Aug 27, 2007
    2
    Quite possibly the most over-hyped crap of the decade. This isn't genius. A least a couple publications aren't scared to lose critic-street-cred by calling it what it is. What a waste of time. Sad that folks think this is meaningful stuff.
  26. MattD.
    Aug 28, 2007
    1
    A nearly unlistenable mix of chanting and shrill music.
  27. MattJ
    Aug 20, 2007
    9
    Uses the variation of beats and eclectic sounds of the first but expands that sound. Now featuring more brazil based samba sounds to classical violins. There's also more variation in tone and rythm with slower songs on a par with some of the more upbeat ones. Great fresh new album
  28. JamesM
    Sep 1, 2007
    8
    A refreshing album. Alive with the global noise of life. I love the Aussie kids on track 6.
  29. GinnaQ
    Sep 10, 2007
    9
    Asides from the last track, this is one of the best albums of 2007.
  30. IyotirmayaD.
    Sep 10, 2007
    9
    I can't stop playing it.
  31. Ixata
    Sep 23, 2007
    10
    Omg, recommended: paper planes, bird flu, jimmy, come around fantastic.
  32. PaulC
    Sep 25, 2007
    9
    Simply put, this album is some of the best music you'll hear all year. M.I.A. is one of the only artists to give us a fresh sound in the 007.
  33. MikeyD
    Sep 3, 2007
    9
    This is smoking! "World Town", "Bamboo Banga", "20 Dollar" and "Paper Planes" are all FIRE!
  34. RickW
    Sep 3, 2007
    6
    A few good tracks but tottally overated.
  35. GeorgeW.
    Sep 4, 2007
    10
    Stellar!
  36. MarcyM.
    Sep 4, 2007
    10
    The best album of the year!
  37. MarcusW.
    Sep 4, 2007
    10
    Kala is the world in your hands, amazing album.
  38. MatthewS.
    Jan 29, 2008
    10
    This is the freshest stuff out there for those into music that captivates. A lot of music requires a lot of attention, as does Kala, but this artist turns the process into pure enjoyment.
  39. OwenP.
    Feb 10, 2008
    9
    Originally I was quite skeptical, but this album didn't take long to grow on me. A very cool electronic/dance sound which separates itself from the mainstream with politically motivated lyrics. Can't wait for her next album.
  40. BethanyL.
    Feb 18, 2008
    10
    My favorite release of the past few years. M.I.A. is as talented as she is quirky, heartfelt, and likable. Meaningful, uniquely-delivered lyrics. Bouncy, interesting beats. And....a whole lot of fun. World class album. You can't help but root for this chick and all her future projects.
  41. MiloszD.
    Jul 30, 2008
    2
    I agree that this is overhyped. There *is* a big mix of styles, but that in itself doesn't really mean the album is great, even though some reviewers seem to have based it purely on this notion. It is like Vibe says unfocused, there's no poignancy and it ends up being something in between annoying and dull. 2 Points and that's even with some good will.
  42. SimonK.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Quality from start to finish! As good as Arular , which is the biggest compliment i can bestow
  43. ErikU.
    Dec 11, 2007
    10
    Best album of the year. Infectious beats, witty and meaningful lyrics. Definitely not for the weak of heart. I. Am. Fan.
  44. JuliaA.
    Dec 18, 2007
    9
    I can't think any other name that would dare to put sound of guns being shot,cash register's ka-ching,didgeridoo,Indian disco music and an opening with the word 'Roadrunner' in it. Lady Mathangi did a splendid job on this record!
  45. SamH.
    Dec 23, 2007
    10
    There is nothing annoying about this album, people say that because the structure of the lyrics mixed with unconventional beats makes this album one of the most exciting album to come out in a long time. The production value is remarkable, as well as the militant lyrics that actually serve to say something far past what most mainstream artists ever think to expand to. This reflects a real There is nothing annoying about this album, people say that because the structure of the lyrics mixed with unconventional beats makes this album one of the most exciting album to come out in a long time. The production value is remarkable, as well as the militant lyrics that actually serve to say something far past what most mainstream artists ever think to expand to. This reflects a real artistry that is personal while speaking to every person in the world. When she atempted to enter the US after being on the homeland security watchlist, she could only get a temporary status just long enough to do a track with Timbaland, she ten used the rest of the money the record company allotted her, and traveled the world picking up different and new sounds to encorporate into a hip hop dance album. Instead of spending money on menial bullshit, she used to advance her craft, and you cant not respect something like that… Expand
  46. patd
    Dec 2, 2007
    10
    Great Album
  47. TimE.
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    This album is M.I.Alicious as Fergie would put it. Sorry for even mentioning Ferigie in the same sentence as MIA as she would never stoop to that level.
  48. FelipeP.
    Aug 18, 2007
    10
    The album of the year, M.I.A. backs better than ever!
  49. ChrisW.
    Aug 18, 2007
    10
    M.I.A. is one the most original artists out right now. Take full advantage of listening to this album... loud! The sounds that come through the speakers are so incredible. There is nothing like it out right now. Vibe mag doesn't know what they're talking about... nor have they ever.
  50. MJ88
    Aug 18, 2007
    10
    Stunning. Exciting. AWESOME.
  51. benk
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    "Kala" is an epic album from start to finish. M.I.A.'s debut "Arular" was already good enough as it is, but the follow-up completely trumps it. There is a much bigger, fuller sound and the material is stronger.
  52. Ninjaw
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    since when did fucking vibe count? album of the year.
  53. briank
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    Brilliant, furious, blazing and insanely cool! This album makes her last one sound like mainstream pop!
  54. AaronS.
    Aug 22, 2007
    10
    This album is bonkers. One of the best of the year.
  55. Nick
    Aug 23, 2007
    10
    Solid, solid, solid. Vibe is way wrong on this - are they upset because it's the one release of 2007 without Timbaland on it? Boo-freaking-hoo.
  56. ChrisC
    Aug 23, 2007
    9
    Easy frontrunner for best of the year. I don't care how ridiculous she looks trying to do rap poses in her press photos. Kala is better than Arular.
  57. AricB
    Aug 23, 2007
    10
    At first listen I was a bit shocked because it seemed sort of dull and slow after the song Hussel. But after about 3 listens, the songs started to grow on me immensely. While not quite as cohesive as Arular, it's better in its variety and takes more risks, probably because MIA herself co produces many songs (and had the main producing credit on Bird Flu). There are songs to dance to At first listen I was a bit shocked because it seemed sort of dull and slow after the song Hussel. But after about 3 listens, the songs started to grow on me immensely. While not quite as cohesive as Arular, it's better in its variety and takes more risks, probably because MIA herself co produces many songs (and had the main producing credit on Bird Flu). There are songs to dance to (XR2, Bird Flu, Boyz, Jimmy) but what I love is there are also songs that I can just sit down and listen to (Mango Pickle, The Turn, 20$, Come Around) I think it's actually for the best that Timbaland wasn't the main producer, because while Come Around is a good song, the others are better.… Expand
  58. rayr
    Aug 23, 2007
    9
    a jolt and refreshing listen to all the indie recycled boybandish stuff out there
  59. SashaL
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    What was the hell was Vibe listening to? Top 5 five this year Garantee! I wish there were more of rap artist like her.
  60. Bob
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    "Bamboo Banga" took me a few listens, but that song is epic. Mindblowing record.
  61. GuiV.
    Aug 26, 2007
    10
    Fantastic! MIA continues a wonderful work, where misc doesn't mean just a crap!
  62. AaronD
    Aug 27, 2007
    9
    What can I say, this is grade A music. Listen to it in passing and your gonna hate it, buy into it and give it a couple long listens and you wont be able to do without it. You have to hand it to hip hop, nothing in music can create a new standard for sound like hip hop. Not even punk or prog rock can lay claim to the ability to bend what sounds at first like noise into sonic soundscapes What can I say, this is grade A music. Listen to it in passing and your gonna hate it, buy into it and give it a couple long listens and you wont be able to do without it. You have to hand it to hip hop, nothing in music can create a new standard for sound like hip hop. Not even punk or prog rock can lay claim to the ability to bend what sounds at first like noise into sonic soundscapes that stimulate new pathways in your brain. Its a learned response and it feels great. LOVE IT.… Expand
  63. DolceAddict
    Aug 28, 2007
    10
    It's been said before but VIBE really need to get a grip. You should be giving 30 to TPain, Akon and the shiteous like that grace your magazine. That said, this album is as dynamic as it is mind blowing. The weakest track in my opinion is the Come Around, Paper Planes is definitely gonna be a cult classic, XR2 is a dance anthem and Jimmy is as pop-tacular as it gets. This album is It's been said before but VIBE really need to get a grip. You should be giving 30 to TPain, Akon and the shiteous like that grace your magazine. That said, this album is as dynamic as it is mind blowing. The weakest track in my opinion is the Come Around, Paper Planes is definitely gonna be a cult classic, XR2 is a dance anthem and Jimmy is as pop-tacular as it gets. This album is definitely top three of the year....I'm still putting Panda Bear's Person Pitch ahead of it though.… Expand
  64. danc
    Sep 1, 2007
    7
    some great tunes. some very not ones. paper planes is amazing. some tracks need better production to make it feel more full, dare i say more 'sane'?
  65. FabioL
    Sep 1, 2007
    10
    Really great album! It dabbles in many genres. Even the songs I didn't like before, I know LOVE!!! It has a lot of danceable tracks (XR2, Bamboo Banga, Bird Flu, Boyz). But this album also has songs that make you think. In 20 Dollar she says "WAR, WAR, WAR- Who made me like this? What it me and God in co-production?" So she's not a stupid girl. I think many people who review Really great album! It dabbles in many genres. Even the songs I didn't like before, I know LOVE!!! It has a lot of danceable tracks (XR2, Bamboo Banga, Bird Flu, Boyz). But this album also has songs that make you think. In 20 Dollar she says "WAR, WAR, WAR- Who made me like this? What it me and God in co-production?" So she's not a stupid girl. I think many people who review this album in a negative light, don't really understand what she's saying in her music. When she mixes thoughtful lyrics and classic beats, such as in World Town, is when she's at her best though. So far the best album of 2007 for me.… Expand
  66. Gman
    Sep 13, 2007
    6
    I tried, I really did. After all the rave reviews of both this and Arular, I thought M.I.A must be worth checking out. The simple fact is there really is nothing special about either the music or her (occasionally irritating) lyrics and delivery. It's certainly not bad, and it's quite bouncy and fun at times but compared to albums by geniunely innovative artists (Dizzy or I tried, I really did. After all the rave reviews of both this and Arular, I thought M.I.A must be worth checking out. The simple fact is there really is nothing special about either the music or her (occasionally irritating) lyrics and delivery. It's certainly not bad, and it's quite bouncy and fun at times but compared to albums by geniunely innovative artists (Dizzy or Cadence Weapon for example) Kala just sounds a bit silly. You can imagine 12 year olds playing this on their mobile phones on the top deck of a number 55 in order to annoy 'old people'. The problem is, it's annoying for all the wrong reasons. Not annoying in a Grime or Punk Rock way, but annoying in a Cheeky Girls or Kylie doing 'Locomotion' kind of way! I seriously wonder if all the attention she's been getting is actually down to the fact that she's a "Hot Asian Babe." One really hopes that the supposedly intelligent music press is not that shallow and sexist in 2007 but maybe that's the case because that's would undoubtedly be the last thing someone like M.I.A. would would want.… Expand
  67. MarcG.
    Sep 23, 2007
    9
    Arular was very good,this one (in my opinion) is even better.
  68. MycroftW.
    Sep 5, 2007
    8
    Great beats, wack but fun lyrics, its Arular all over again.
  69. davidv.
    Sep 7, 2007
    9
    I'm very satisfied.
  70. JoeM
    Jan 12, 2008
    2
    Some of the beats are decent, but her voice tends to ruin them. Her lyrics are flat-out terrible. There is nothing interesting, deep, or creative about this music.
  71. AlexP
    Jan 13, 2008
    10
    Best coolest album of 2007. No doubt in my mind.
  72. AlfredoM
    Mar 17, 2008
    10
    Outstanding!!! Songs like Boyz and XR 2 make you wanna dance. Bird Flu is amazing. I took me a while but the almun really grew on me fast. Is just fantastic.
  73. JoseH
    Apr 13, 2008
    6
    Too inconsistent to be rated more highly. Songs very from great to pretty bad - no song is as good as it might be. Original and catchy, sure, but great?
  74. MattC.
    Apr 15, 2008
    1
    Pure tripe.
  75. SophiaF.
    Apr 9, 2008
    10
    I love this album. It's not only hip and catchy, the lyrics are very substantial. If you don't like this LP, it's probably because you just don't understand.
  76. Daveh
    Jun 29, 2008
    9
    Pretty spectacular and wildly unique! amazing album! best songs- bamboo banga, birdflu, boyz, jimmy, hussel, 20 dollar, xr2, paper planes and come around are all outstanding tracks!
  77. JoobyDooby
    Aug 15, 2008
    10
    Perfect album.
  78. JohnnyFlow
    Sep 7, 2008
    10
    This is a fantastic album and a true original, big upgrade over the impressive Arular. But I understand how M.I.A.'s music can divide people. It's definitely a love-it-or-hate-it sound. I will also concede that she is a weak M.C. and downright awful live performer. She is purely an album artist and an interesting person to interview. But damn, what a record... just don't This is a fantastic album and a true original, big upgrade over the impressive Arular. But I understand how M.I.A.'s music can divide people. It's definitely a love-it-or-hate-it sound. I will also concede that she is a weak M.C. and downright awful live performer. She is purely an album artist and an interesting person to interview. But damn, what a record... just don't expect to hear specific genre, expect to hear something totally different.… Expand
  79. JordanK
    Nov 1, 2007
    7
    I can understand why people would hate this album. I hated it during my first few listens. But, past the couple annoying tunes (to me at least), there is a lot being done here that you just can't hear anywhere else. This artist has more guts and creativity than most if not all in her style of music
  80. mikes.
    Aug 19, 2007
    5
    this is a characteristic sophmore slump from an artist that has such a stellar debut. One of the most hyped artist since the debut, a new star, waiting to be cast into the mainstream spotlight. However, with this release, it is obvious that the production on this album is too experimental with it's lo-fi effect on the vocals and melodies that are just not catchy and rather this is a characteristic sophmore slump from an artist that has such a stellar debut. One of the most hyped artist since the debut, a new star, waiting to be cast into the mainstream spotlight. However, with this release, it is obvious that the production on this album is too experimental with it's lo-fi effect on the vocals and melodies that are just not catchy and rather repetitive. One good production choice is the use of ethnic beats and arrangements which gives m.i.a. a chance as a world pop artist rather than being successful in just america and europe. Her lyrics aren't quite up to par as it seems she is trying too hard to sound important and different. Album lacks the fun factor of her previous effort and feels more artsy in a bad way. The songs are just not catchy. Not quite the mainstream release that i was hoping for after the outstanding debut this release is unfocused and boring.… Expand
  81. jeremyf
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    This is a perfect album. I won't get into details. However, the calculation for this is 87, and its real average is about 82. As much as I'd love the 87 to be true, it's not. And I feel like most of these averages aren't true either. I don't know how they evaluate them.
  82. NM
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    This album is amazing.. I love the way she so smoothly unites so many global sounds. It's also a very diverse album in terms of sounds. It's fun to listen to as well.
  83. Derekm
    Aug 21, 2007
    9
    It is pretty awesome. There probably aren't any songs as infectiously badass as "Galang" or "Bucky Done Gun", but every single song is as good or better than "$10". (All of these are off of Arular.) The best cuts, IMO, are "World Town", "Hussel", and "Boyz". "World Town" is probably most similar to the old MIA sound, which makes sense because it is by Diplo. This album is highly It is pretty awesome. There probably aren't any songs as infectiously badass as "Galang" or "Bucky Done Gun", but every single song is as good or better than "$10". (All of these are off of Arular.) The best cuts, IMO, are "World Town", "Hussel", and "Boyz". "World Town" is probably most similar to the old MIA sound, which makes sense because it is by Diplo. This album is highly recommended for anyone who likes beats at all, probably not for people who like the current rap scene, and I am not sure how rock fans might like it.… Expand
  84. dereka
    Aug 21, 2007
    9
    Hey I am retarded. Diplo didn't do World Town. He did XR2 and Paper Planes. Anyway, turns out that the majority of the good songs were Switch, as Timbaland's and Balqstarr's were probably the album's worst.
  85. RobertP
    Aug 21, 2007
    9
    Bloody amazing - the sound of multiculturalism and globalisation. Not so much of a clash of civilisations, more a breakdance
  86. aL.A
    Aug 22, 2007
    9
    This album is slightly better than Arular. Almost classic
  87. GustavoS
    Aug 22, 2007
    9
    I believe the greatest thing about this album is that I have to listen to the songs again and again to get all the sounds together while I dance the night away. This is no sophomore slump, no disappointments, just pure funky grooves served up fresh. I am so glad to have bought this album and greatly recommend it.
  88. MikeK.
    Aug 26, 2007
    10
    Listen to this album a couple of times--enough that it sinks in--and then go back to listen to Arular. I loved Arular, but next to this it sounds timid and tame. This is savage stuff, pretty unprecedented; what is vibe thinking? I want to buy the issue and read the review. For that matter, whats up with Metacritic putting some boring indie pop from the new pornographers as the featured CD Listen to this album a couple of times--enough that it sinks in--and then go back to listen to Arular. I loved Arular, but next to this it sounds timid and tame. This is savage stuff, pretty unprecedented; what is vibe thinking? I want to buy the issue and read the review. For that matter, whats up with Metacritic putting some boring indie pop from the new pornographers as the featured CD of this week? This is the hotness.… Expand
  89. SophieB
    Aug 29, 2007
    10
    WFT.. Vibe's review? 3/10? Is that site being serious? Fantastic album.
  90. SoulSpeak
    Aug 31, 2007
    7
    Vaguely political, sometimes brilliant, overly acclaimed. I am an MIA fan but am well aware of her shortcomings as an artist. Better classified as a collage artist with a nice aesthetic but limited in message. But props to Switch for proving his diverse reach in production.
  91. PhamN.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    Vibrant, youthfull and... baaam! I can't stop playing this album either. She has that cetain... "je ne sais qua!" The girl's just got it. So much music these days lacks life and soul. I mean listen to like the difference between something like the Clash and say... the Killers (who aren't that bad compared to most). Granted different genre and sound from MIA but it's Vibrant, youthfull and... baaam! I can't stop playing this album either. She has that cetain... "je ne sais qua!" The girl's just got it. So much music these days lacks life and soul. I mean listen to like the difference between something like the Clash and say... the Killers (who aren't that bad compared to most). Granted different genre and sound from MIA but it's still pop. MIA got soul... Seek out the video for Jimmy, it's great.… Expand
  92. GraemeS
    Sep 13, 2007
    2
    Really don't get the great reviews that this album's been getting. I've listened to it several times and I'm just not feeling it. I'm surprised to because I love Switch (Dave Taylor) who produced most of the album.
  93. DanB.
    Sep 16, 2007
    8
    I kind of wanted to not like this album. Too much hype + shallow pop-lefty-politics = bleh. Turns out the album's pretty good, voerall. Listened to it 5 times now and overall I like it more than Arular. Can't stand XR2, but I love Paper Planes and Jimmy (cover's better than the original too).
  94. DanA.
    Sep 23, 2007
    9
    I had my doubts about whether or not M.I.A. could produce an album even within the same league of Arular. But I'm glad to say that it is in Arular's league, and comes close to even being better than her first album. M.I.A. brings an amazing amount of flavor with high end, unique production, eccentric delivery, and music that is fun while remaining tasteful. This is the album to I had my doubts about whether or not M.I.A. could produce an album even within the same league of Arular. But I'm glad to say that it is in Arular's league, and comes close to even being better than her first album. M.I.A. brings an amazing amount of flavor with high end, unique production, eccentric delivery, and music that is fun while remaining tasteful. This is the album to beat this year.… Expand
  95. VerianT.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Perfect crazy perfect.
  96. NickP
    Jan 28, 2008
    10
    An amazing album, I didn't think she could surpass Arular, but this one trancends that after a few listens. Songs like Boyz and Come Around are fluff, sure - but there are a ton that have a great deal of depth and even the songs with fluff really, REALLY connect. I'm a white boy, with about as much rhythm as a rock, but every time I listen to this disc, I feel like getting up An amazing album, I didn't think she could surpass Arular, but this one trancends that after a few listens. Songs like Boyz and Come Around are fluff, sure - but there are a ton that have a great deal of depth and even the songs with fluff really, REALLY connect. I'm a white boy, with about as much rhythm as a rock, but every time I listen to this disc, I feel like getting up and dancing. I think M.I.A. has a very unique style, and as long as she puts out music, I'll buy it. And I'd marry her, too.… Expand
  97. JoseD.
    Nov 11, 2007
    7
    MIA has made me a fan. I first saw and heard her on LOGO's the Click List video countdown show. The tune was Boyz. I replayed on my TiVo. Way to go TiVo. Kala Pumps out awesome beats! I want MORE!
  98. APoli
    Dec 21, 2007
    10
    Just when you thought you heard it all before.... I love the fact that so many reviews on here are 9/10s or zeroes and ones. It's a hard record to be indifferent about and that's its charm. It's not afraid to take risks, it occasionally falls flat on its arse, but it's never less than interesting and more often than not brilliant. One of the few must-hear records of Just when you thought you heard it all before.... I love the fact that so many reviews on here are 9/10s or zeroes and ones. It's a hard record to be indifferent about and that's its charm. It's not afraid to take risks, it occasionally falls flat on its arse, but it's never less than interesting and more often than not brilliant. One of the few must-hear records of 2007. Whether you put it on constant repeat or incinerate the thing afterwards almost doesn't matter (almost, but if you don't love it you're wrong)...… Expand
  99. BilleyL.
    Dec 27, 2007
    10
    Such an amazing eclectic dance album that takes a couple of listens. once u do u will get hooked.
  100. MattMintage
    Jan 5, 2012
    9
    I don't care what kind of taste in music you have, if you give Kala a chance you will LOVE how epic the beats are, and how well woven they are mixed with political and social commentary only seen outside on the sidewalks where people picket with sings ans such. All M.I.A. needs is a mic and some notes and she can hammer out some politics as well as make us bump and grind with her swayI don't care what kind of taste in music you have, if you give Kala a chance you will LOVE how epic the beats are, and how well woven they are mixed with political and social commentary only seen outside on the sidewalks where people picket with sings ans such. All M.I.A. needs is a mic and some notes and she can hammer out some politics as well as make us bump and grind with her sway about her. It's rare I enjoy an entire album, but for this one, I did very much, and I'm glad it came into my life!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Best Album of 2007
20
#20 Most Discussed Album of 2007
3
#3 Most Shared Album of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Universal acclaim - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 35 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 37
  3. Negative: 1 out of 37
  1. cokemachineglow
    87
    Although there are a couple of failed tracks--like the tediously slow 'The Turn'--most of this stuff is groundbreaking.
    Read full review
  2. Observer Music Monthly
    80
    There are the terrible lyrics and more than a few moments where her one-style-fits-all MCing grates, but there's also the politics that no one else would touch, an intelligence, colour and humour, and the added benefit of centrifugally heavy production. Skip a couple, and you're in for a treat.
    Read full review
  3. Q Magazine
    80
    Everything here is a fantastic hybrid, M.I.A. and her platoon of producers thieving fashionable street sounds from Baltimore hip hop to Brazil's baile funk. [Sep 2007, p.89]
See all critic reviews »