Kelela has officially announced her third studio album, 'new avatar,' which is set to arrive on 10 July via Warp Records. The announcement comes alongside the release of her powerful new single, 'linknb.'
Following the release of 'idea 1' earlier this month, 'linknb' offers another glimpse into Kelela’s evolving sonic world—and it stands as one of her most confrontational releases to date. Produced by Oscar Scheller, the track pairs jagged guitar riffs with pounding industrial drums, providing a backdrop for Kelela’s lyrics, which center on resilience, self-worth, and the refusal to shrink in the face of adversity.
Written during a period of writer’s block, Kelela describes the track as a personal mantra that helped pull her back into the creative process. The accompanying visual, directed by Mischa Notcutt, places the artist in a surreal urban dreamscape that mirrors the song’s themes of renewal and self-discovery.
'new avatar' marks a significant shift for the artist, reconnecting with the guitar-driven sounds of her early days in Washington D.C.’s indie scene while continuing to push electronic and R&B boundaries. The upcoming album also features collaborations with PinkPantheress, Fousheé, and A. K. Paul.
The project follows the critical acclaim of Raven and RAVE:N, The Remixes, which cemented Kelela as one of contemporary music’s most innovative voices. With 'idea 1' hinting at transformation and 'linknb' confirming it, Kelela’s next era appears sharper, louder, and more uncompromising than ever.
'linknb' is out now via Warp Records.
