In anticipation of his upcoming album, Khalid has dropped a new track called “in plain sight.” The first thing that struck me about it is the immaculate production—the sounds pop in all the right ways. The snappy kick drum, paired with the wah-wah Moog bass and soft background synths, makes the track effortlessly listenable.

This is the first preview of Khalid’s upcoming album After the Sun Goes Down. At its core, the track is groove-driven and instantly makes you want to dance. It carries echoes of early ’90s R&B while feeling completely modernized. Some listeners have even drawn a creative link to Toni Braxton’s “He Wasn’t Man Enough,” and that nod to a classic only strengthens the sense of old and new blending seamlessly.

Khalid’s vocals shine throughout. He has a way of pulling listeners in with that unique mix of pop, R&B, and soul. His signature tone is unmistakable, but here he leans into a brighter, more energetic delivery that brings the song to life. Lyrically, the track explores deception and betrayal, but also empowerment and self-discovery—facing dishonesty while reclaiming his own truth.

Most of my past experience with Khalid comes from his 2018 album Suncity, which had a dreamlike, laid-back R&B feel. Compared to that, “in plain sight” feels like an entirely new direction. It’s driven, forward-moving, and carries an energy I haven’t really heard from him before. If I had to name a comparison, the closest would probably be Aminé.

All in all, this is a really exciting project from Khalid and a strong glimpse of what’s to come. Go give “in plain sight” a listen—you won’t regret it.

Author: Peter Källman

Peter Källman is a writer from Sweden who loves playing in bands, writing reviews and going to live shows!