Kaaris - Okou Gnakouri

Kaaris, Okou Gnakouri is a transitional album. Released on November 11, 2016, via Def Jam Recordings France, this third studio record marks a sharp break from the aggressive trap sound that forged his notoriety thanks to Or Noir (2013). Far from sticking to one register, Kaaris explores more intimate sonic territories here, where production becomes the primary vector of an audacious artistic evolution.

Or Noir (2013): The Trap Legacy That Built Kaaris' Fame Before Okou Gnakouri

Produced by Therapy Music, it helped popularize trap in France and established itself as a genre classic. Okou Gnakouri does not seek to compete with it in terms of sonic violence; rather, it aims to complete the image of an artist capable of working across varied registers.

Blackstarz and Therapy Music: The Melodic Productions That Redefine Okou Gnakouri's Sound

The production on this album is marked by a distinct heterogeneity. Blackstarz handles Le sang and Nador, while Therapy Music signs three tracks: Blow, 2 bigos, and J'suis perché. These collaborations allow the artist to explore a more melodic approach, with frequent use of autotune. While this dimension may bother listeners accustomed to the hardness of previous projects, it testifies to a desire for sonic renewal. The diversity of producers — including Mr Punisher, Double X, Fushubi, and Jemi Black — dilutes the unique production identity Kaaris had built with Therapy Music, but in return offers a broader instrumental palette.

4Matic feat. Kalash Criminel: a fraternal confrontation at the heart of reinvented songwriting

This collaboration with a major figure in French rap adds a star dimension to the track while strengthening the fraternal bond between two emblematic figures of the genre. The presence of Kalash Criminel on this track validates Kaaris's opening toward new sonic territories, far beyond usual international or urban collaborations.

2.7 Zéro 10. 17 feat. Gucci Mane: the international validation of a club and melodic positioning

The second confirmed feature on the album is 2.7 Zéro 10. 17, which welcomes Gucci Mane. This international collaboration validates Kaaris' positioning as an artist capable of evolving beyond traditional trap codes without betraying his roots.

Blackstarz, Therapy Music and Mr Punisher: the producer dilution that favors sonic experimentation

In total, six different producers worked on the 15 tracks of the album: Blackstarz, Therapy Music, Mr Punisher, Double X, Fushubi and Jemi Black. This lack of a clearly identified main producer is a notable characteristic of the record. It can be interpreted as an artistic choice aimed at avoiding sonic monotony, but it also risks diluting a strong production identity. Each track brings its own touch: Jack Uzi (Mr Punisher), Tchoin and Poussière (Double X), or even Contact (Fushubi).

Verdict. Okou Gnakouri is primarily a transitional album. It allows Kaaris to assert his ability to write on more personal themes, with a melodic approach that contrasts with the hardness of his earlier albums. While some critics may have found the approach too cloying or the autotuned sounds jarring for an audience loyal to violent rap, it remains undeniable that this album marked a key step in the artist's trajectory. It validates his evolution toward melody while retaining part of his usual poetic sensibility. An album that is not without interest, but one that does not seek to replace Or Noir: rather, it serves as a necessary interlude in Kaaris' career.