Kalpee drops new EP ‘Dougla Boi’

Hailing from Trinidad & Tobago with a sound that’s equally ancestral and cutting edge, Kalpee is a torchbearer for the exciting new chapter of Caribbean music. A self-taught artist, producer and visionary, he stands at the forefront of a new movement he calls New Calypso, a warm, genre-blending wave that stitches together his Trinbagonian origins with modern aesthetic of R&B, Afrobeats and dancehall. It’s music that grooves as much as it heals; a sound alive with rhythm and instilled with a sense of deeper meaning.

First unveiling his sound in 2017 with the debut single “No One,” he’s since gone from strength to strength with multiple singles, remixes and EPs. He’s played stages from the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix to SXSW London 2025 and earned extensive radio support from BBC Radio 1, BBC 1Xtra and Capital Xtra as well as acclaim from critics around the world. Beyond the accolades and millions of steams, it’s his intricate balance of soul and swagger that’s drawn a global audience to his orbit.

Kalpee’s story begins in the Caribbean, but his reach extends far beyond it; after early stints performing in festivals and fronting a local band, he pivoted from marine biology to full-time artistic expression, teaching himself production and sound design skills. In 2020, he founded Island Wave, now an official SXSW Caribbean stage dedicated to amplifying regional talent and raising awareness for mental health, confirming his status as an artist lifting up the next generation even as he ascends himself.

Now, Kalpee returns with Dougla Boi, his most personal and powerful release to date, serving up a six-track EP named after the Trinidadian term for someone of mixed African and Indian heritage, a nod to his own identity and the cultural mosaic of his homeland. Across the record, he frames into the complex nature of belonging, balance and pride, crafting songs that feel like both an emotional outlet and a celebration.

Set up by the bubble of shimmering tones on opening track “Everybody,” featuring Full Blown, Kalpee’s alluring falsetto vocals soar as the surge of patter percussion hints at the incoming groove. Jumping into an uptempo jam packed full of grooving rhythm, colourful instrumentation and infectious vocal layers, it’s a stunning outing that’s truly impossible not to love which also hit the #1 spot on the UK Music Week Black Chart.

“Heaven So Close” drifts into focus with the run of bright synth notes before slipping into an elegant piano-driven moment. With the soft pulse of downtempo percussion led by emotive vocal leads, the track delivers a dreamy alternative pop outing that flows with dazzling vocals and poignant lyricism. “No Denying” hops with the shuffle of tapped drums and smokey instrumental elements, leaving space for Kalpee’s smooth vocal lines to float above and cast an enchanting, R&B-tinged outing. With lead single “Under,” he crafts a sultry listening experience where dancehall rhythms propel soulful vocal leads to form an utterly engrossing soundscape dashed with danceable energy and memorable melodic threads.

“Breathe” leans into a mellow vibe of intricate guitar notes and aching vocal performance, gliding with the steady shuffle of soft drums to craft a steady groover that’s engaging and thoughtful in equal measure, offering a stellar display of Kalpee’s songwriting talent and performance flair. With a debut full-length record on the way, Kalpee is sure to continue going from strength to strength on his unstoppable rise as a must watch artist.

Commenting on the release, he shares, “Dougla Boi is a reflection of my identity… These songs hold the moments where I had to stop, breathe, heal, and remember who I am. It’s me celebrating my roots and finding peace in every part of my heritage.”

Listen to Dougla Boi below