Kelly Owens’ first studio album since 2020’s acclaimed Inner Song, Dreamstate epically conveys exactly as the project’s title suggests: a hazy and impassioned collection of tracks produced to soundtrack euphoric dance floors and post-heartbreak revelations. Working in collaboration with Bicep, Tom Rowland (The Chemical Brothers), and The 1975’s George Daniel, Owens explores a newfound sense of freedom, coasting through melodies that align with her journey of self-discovery and transformation.

The result of that transformation is a Ray of Light-level-hypnotizing record that is palpably in a lane of its own, often emulating more-so of a DJ set than a traditional dance-pop album. On lead single, “Love You Got,” Owens delivers a Berghain-bound anthem, whereas on “Time To,” she interpolates drum and bass elements bedded into airy synths. While her vocal presence may not dominate every track, it weaves a subtle thread that intricately guides you through the world she has conceptualized, creating a pervasive sense of continuity. “Dreamstate,” the title track, spans just over five minutes, and is undoubtedly a career highlight. Repetitive chants of the title, braided with atmospheric harmony, evolve into a war cry, begging the listener to join her reverie.

With a valiant shift in her sound, Owens not only showcases her artistic evolution, but also positions herself at the highest standard of a genre garnering heavy attention. Her ability to marry her distinct vision with the efforts of her collaborators results in a symbiotic masterpiece that is rarely achieved in today’s landscape. As the album’s dynamism unfolds, it becomes clear that Owens is not just participating in the dance music revival; she’s redefining it. While trailblazers like Charli XCX propel dance music into the mainstream and events like Boiler Room (where Owens was recently on the bill alongside Charli herself) capture public interest, Owens stands on the precipice of a significant breakthrough.