A mesmerising, genre-defying release that establishes Kaeto as one of alt-pop’s most captivating new voices
Kaeto’s debut mixtape, Intro, is a mesmerising, genre-defying release that establishes her as one of alt-pop’s most captivating new voices. Released through Polydor Records, Intro is an eight-track journey into self-acceptance and vulnerability, addressing the profound questions we often avoid.
From the moment it begins, Kaeto pulls listeners into her world, where introspection meets sonic experimentation, seamlessly blending genres and emotions in ways that feel both fresh and authentic.
Kaeto self-produced the mixtape with Mathias Wang (aka Junkmail), blending a diverse range of influences into a cohesive yet expansive sonic journey. Merging alt-pop, indie, and synth-heavy soundscapes, the mixtape defies genre constraints, moving fluidly between styles. Kaeto’s influences are hard to trace, and that’s what makes her music so captivating - she's an anomaly in the best possible way.
This year, Kaeto has captivated audiences opening for artists like Bleachers and HAIM. She will soon support The Last Dinner Party on their UK headline tour this autumn, demonstrating why she’s such a compelling live act. Her performances reflect the bold vulnerability of her music, showcasing an unfiltered songwriting approach that deeply resonates with listeners. In an age where many pop artists feel interchangeable, Kaeto stands out not just for her sound but for her willingness to explore raw emotions. With Intro, she offers a glimpse into her world - one we’re eager to stay in.
The mixtape’s opening track and standout single, ‘U R MINE,’ sets the tone with its hypnotic anthem built around a minor-chord piano progression and a groove-heavy drumbeat. Its infectious energy captures the essence of dancefloor euphoria, while Kaeto’s voice soars, at once delicate and powerful. The track’s intricate layering draws listeners in, building to a cathartic release that feels both liberating and affirming. Reflecting on struggles with body image, Kaeto transforms personal battles into a love letter to the self, which invites listeners to embrace their flaws.
Diving deep into her psyche: Kaeto
While the standout single ‘Don’t Ask’ from earlier this year is not included on Intro, there is still much for listeners to explore. ‘Carry You’ evokes the early nineties with its captivating grooves and trip-hop vibes, featuring intricate beats, yearning vocals, and stirring melodies.
Meanwhile, ‘Hero’ towards the end of the mixtape, incorporates similarly shuffling trip-hop beats but channels them in a different direction, melding spectral synths, chiming guitars, and mesmeric vocals.
The vocals are the thread that ties everything together. On ‘Alma,’ she transitions from a raspy, vintage allure in the verses to euphoric highs in the chorus, showcasing one of the mixtape’s standout moments and underscoring her versatility. It’s remarkable to think she ever doubted her vocal skills, as her delivery exudes unwavering conviction. Every note and lyric feels intentional, and it’s this mix of vulnerability and artistic courage that makes Intro so compelling.
More than just a debut mixtape, Intro is a manifesto - a declaration of self-worth, a celebration of imperfections, and a deep dive into the complex emotions of modern life.
Each track feels like a deep dive into her psyche, where no emotion is too messy or too difficult to explore. There’s a sense of freedom in her music, one that invites listeners to be unashamedly themselves - and with Kaeto as their guide, it’s a journey worth taking.
Rating: 9.3
Intro is out now via Polydor Records / Republic Records
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