Kala cover

Kala

M.I.A. · 2007

47 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock · hip-hop · electronica

A frenetic blend of global sounds and biting lyrics that challenge conventional pop norms.

Why listen to this

Best for
steady rhythmic journeys engaging background energy dynamic and varied pacing
Context
Kala marked M.I.A.'s second studio album, following her breakthrough debut, Arular. Released in 2007, it solidified her status as an innovator at the intersection of hip-hop and world music, showcasing her unique cultural perspective.
If you like
alternative rock, hip-hop, electronica
What next
Maya — Continues the experimental sound and bold themes found in Kala.

Kala is an album by M.I.A., released in 2007. A frenetic blend of global sounds and biting lyrics that challenge conventional pop norms. The album was critically acclaimed and featured the hit single 'Paper Planes,' which became a cultural phenomenon, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also received nominations for Grammy Awards and has been recognized for its influence on contemporary pop and hip-hop artists. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Kala sound like?

A frenetic blend of global sounds and biting lyrics that challenge conventional pop norms. Rooted in alternative rock and hip-hop.

What makes Kala by M.I.A. notable?

The album was critically acclaimed and featured the hit single 'Paper Planes,' which became a cultural phenomenon, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also received nominations for Grammy Awards and has been recognized for its influence on contemporary pop and hip-hop artists. Kala marked M.I.A.'s second studio album, following her breakthrough debut, Arular. Released in 2007, it solidified her status as an innovator at the intersection of hip-hop and world music, showcasing her unique cultural perspective.

Who is Kala for?

Kala works well if you're into steady rhythmic journeys, engaging background energy and dynamic and varied pacing.

How many songs are on Kala?

Kala has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·47:38

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Bamboo Banga 4:58
  • 2 Bird Flu 3:25
  • 3 Boyz Standout 3:27
  • 4 Jimmy Standout 3:29
  • 5 Hussel 4:25
  • 6 Mango Pickle Down River 3:54
  • 7 20 Dollar 4:34
  • 8 World Town 3:54
  • 9 The Turn 3:52
  • 10 XR2 4:21
  • 11 Paper Planes Standout 3:25
  • 12 Come Around 3:54

Release Date

August 8, 2007

Artist Origin

Sri Lanka

Runtime

47 min 38 sec