On The Up is back after a short break, once again highlighting five new artists you should be listening to this month. September’s picks jump from a surging Bay Area R&B singer to a new face on the Brazilian music scene signed to Stones Throw Records. Fans of Big Thief will be hyped on one of our picks, while a dizzying LA rapper and rising Aussie psych-pop group round out September’s group. Check ’em out and listen in below.
Zyah Belle
We’ve been featuring some of Zyah Belle’s tracks in our Best New R&B column dating back to when the Bay Area singer signed with Guin Records last year and dropped the silky Who’s Listening Anyway EP. She hasn’t let up in 2022 and has her album, Yam Grier, set to drop on September 9th. “Not The One” beams with some serious mystique from her and LA rapper Tempest, while “DND” is armed with a sultry, electro-R&B bounce. Named after ’70s blaxploitation film queen Pam Grier (who also starred in Quentin Tarantino’s 1997 cult classic, Jackie Brown), Yam Grier sees Belle channeling that alpha woman energy Grier made famous on the silver screen and she says the album is, “The embodiment of a woman who has finally come into her own, unapologetically.”
Gabriel Da Rosa
When Brazil’s Gabriel Da Rosa arrived in LA eight years ago, he was armed with a guitar, a backpack, a dog, and a rock and roll dream. Where he’s at today looks very different — well, at least musically. The latest signee to the always-eclectic Stones Throw Records label, Da Rosa is making music in the mold of the Brazilian samba, bossa nova, and tropicalia greats. On his debut single, “Jasmim Parte 1,” that uncanny breezy guitar, pairs with lush Wurly keys, bossa horns and a gorgeous Brazilian sidewalk flute. In the song’s video, the avid vinyl collector flips through records from legends like Joao Gilberto, Novos Baianos, Gal Costa, etc… and if any of those names mean something to you, you’re gonna want to press play on “Jardim Parte 1” stat.
Tenci
We’ve got a soft spot for so many artists on Austin’s indie workhorse label Keeled Scales. Acts like Sun June, Why Bonnie, and Katy Kirby are helping shape the label’s roster and now Chicago’s Tenci are pushing towards their second album on the imprint. A Swollen River, A Well Overflowing is due out on November 4th, and lead single “Two Cups” showcases singer/bandleader Jess Shoman’s imaginative arrangements and inviting vocals that harken to Adrianne Lenker’s distinct range.
Rhys Langston
LA’s off-kilter art rap scene has always rested on the foundations of MCs dropping stream-of-consciousness raps that in actuality, aren’t that at all. For these cats are just delightful, highly-intelligent weirdos with a microphone and a lot to say. Rhys Langston is one of these artists and the POW Records-signee has a sharp-tongued, verbose approach that comes across as trippily as smashing melons on the shores of the La Brea tar pits. The Sufjan Stevens-esque-titled “I Will Stop At Nothing (I A Magnetized And I Move!)” is a spiraling display of wordsmithery, as Langston spits in a controlled fury, “And my voice box full of stuffing, dressings, fixings / MacGuyver’d, Epoxy, aluminum wire. Ready-made, sculpted tableau portmanteau…” His album Grapefruit Radio is set to drop on September 14th and also features Jersey’s Fatboi Sharif, LA mainstay The Koreatown Oddity, and others.
Babe Rainbow
In a most unusual, but wholly welcome collaboration last year, Jaden Smith guested on the sunny, shore-break airiness of Babe Rainbow’s “Your Imagination.” It was another high-profile co-sign for the Aussie psych-y surf pop band following a release on Danger Mouse’s 30th Century Records and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard’s Stu Mackenzie producing their debut. Now the group are pushing towards a new album as tunes like “Smash The Machine” have grown increasingly more psychedelic. It’s no surprise that their upcoming tour begins on Sept 30th at SoCal’s buzzy, psych rock-focused (but still eclectic) Desert Daze festival alongside Tame Impala, King Gizzard, and Sky Ferreira.
Luis Cross/ Gemma Warren/ Kene O/ Danielle Barbieri/ Dominiq Dominiq
On The Up is Uproxx’s monthly column that brings you a round-up of the best new artists that you need to be listening to. Some of these musicians might be brand new, some might have been making music for a while and are starting to hit a major stride, but they’re all destined for bigger things in the very near future. Our July edition features a UK soul singer that crushed it at Glastonbury, an unreal vocalist, the second coming of The Roots, a singer-songwriter evoking shades of Elliott Smith, and Flying Lotus’ latest vocal muse. Check it out.
Greentea Peng
Neo-soul and R&B singer Greentea Peng has a style that harkens back to the ’90s British boombap R&B heyday. While the Londoner’s debut album Man Made dropped last year, she collaborated with UK garage innovator MJ Cole and Gorillaz/Jorja Smith/Ezra Collective drummer Femi Koleoso on the brand new “Stuck In The Middle.” Peng operates over psych-jazz and hip-hop instrumentation from her band, the Seng Seng Family, and drops metaphysical lyrics like, “I believe in magic because I’ve seen it,” (on “Nah It Ain’t The Same.”) She just left an indelible mark at Glastonbury and has appearances on deck at other UK summer festival staples like All Points East and End Of The Road.
Laufey
There are gorgeous voices, and then there’s Laufey. The Icelandic-Chinese singer, violinist, and pianist now lives in Los Angeles and when you hear her sing, it feels like you cozied up to a fancy piano bar and stumbled into a jaw-dropping vocalist. Her music is cinematic, instantly elegant, and even a bit showy. “Fragile” hums with pronounced strings painting a canvas for Laufey’s delivery, which will legit send chills down your spine. Her debut album, Everything I Know About Love is due out on August 26th and Laufey’s U.S. headlining tour that begins in September is almost entirely sold out.
Butcher Brown
If you’re a fan of The Roots, then Butcher Brown is for you. You might’ve heard the Richmond, VA jazz and hip-hop five-piece led by MC/multi-instrumentalist Tennishu with their rendition of Little Richard’s “Rip It Up” as the theme music to Monday Night Football for the 2020 NFL season. They’ve established their prowess in a series of albums, but are now embarking on the more expansive big band jazz sound with the Triple Trey album due out on September 16th. Tennishu comes across like golden era rap legend J-Live, as drummer Corey Fonville lays groundwork for a horn section, synths and Andrew Randazzo’s sick sax solo on “Liquid Light.” Finger snaps, bells, and even tuba pop up everywhere, and it’s clear that these dudes are master jazz-hop instrumentalists. Butcher Brown is on the festival circuit this summer, including appearances at Afropunk, Pitchfork Fest, and the Blue Note Jazz Fest in Napa.
Blondshell
The solo project of indie singer-songwriter Sabrina Teitelbaum, we highlighted Blondshell’s debut single, “Olympus,” in June. Skillfully produced by indie superproducer Yves Rothman, the song has heavy, visceral lyricism, where Teitelbaum confesses her helplessness in a destructive relationship. “I wanna save myself, you’re part of my addiction. I just keep you in thе kitchen while I burn,” she sings. Moments like this seethe with shades of Elliott Smith’s dark honesty and you root for her to come out on the other side. More music is on the way soon and the LA-based, New York City-raised Blondshell is undoubtedly one to watch.
Devin Tracy
Probably the same spark that went off for Flying Lotus when he discovered LA future-soul vocalist Devin Tracy at a recent session, is what hearing Tracy for the first time will do to you. Tracy was FlyLo’s vocal muse of sorts on their mid-June collaborative double single release, “The Room” and “You Don’t Know.” Tracy floats in wavelengths over Lotus’ silos of strings on the former and rides a controlled wormhole of snare drums on the latter. He just appeared on Sango’s new Great Lakes Series mixtape, soaring on the dance floor batucada of “Winter All Year.” There’s a sensual androgyny to Tracy’s voice that’s just irresistible, and we want to hear more of it stat.
Anybody who thought the vinyl resurgence was just a fad was mistaken: The industry has experienced a legitimate revival. As a result, music fans are interested in physical media in ways they may not have if the decades-old medium hasn’t made a comeback. That doesn’t mean everybody is listening to just their parents’ old music, though. That’s part of it, sure, thanks to rereleases that present classic albums in new ways. A vital part of the renewed vinyl wave, though, is new projects being released as records, of which there are plenty.
Whatever you might be into, each month brings a new slew of vinyl releases that has something for everybody. Some stand out above the rest, naturally, so check out some of our favorite vinyl releases of June below.
Bartees Strange — Farm To Table
4AD
After generating a ton of buzz with his 2020 debut album Live Forever, Bartees Strange returned just earlier this month with Farm To Table, a genre-spanning album that’s full of compelling moments. As for the vinyl, there’s a cool-looking striped version (the one above) or a classic black LP. Regardless of what edition you get, the vinyl release of the album has a song, “Daily News,” that’s only available on this physical pressing. Order it now for an October ship.
Elton John — Madman Across The Water (50th Anniversary Reissue)
UMe
Elton John had a huge 1971, as he dropped a live album with 17-11-70, a soundtrack for the movie Friends, and later in the year, a proper studio album, Madman Across The Water. Now we have a 50th-anniversary edition of it and it’s a big one, as the 4-LP box set includes a 40-page booklet with introductions by John and Bernie Taupin, photos and essays, a reproduction 1971 reproduction poster, and more.
Diiv was one of the most critically respected indie groups of the 2010s and it all started with Oshin. That album turns 10 this year, which the group is celebrating with an expanded 2-LP edition. The first LP contains the regular album as we know it, while the other one has original Oshin demos and two live songs, including the previously unreleased “Yuk.”
“Out with the bangs, in with the twangs,” a clever ad for Angel Olsen’s new album reads. The country-leaning LP is one of the finer albums of the year so far and now it can be one of the finest albums in your vinyl collection, too. Unfortunately, the clear green edition pictured above is sold out as of this post, but the still-available black vinyl never goes out of style.
Los Angeles Philharmonic — Hollywood Bowl: The First 100 Years
Los Angeles Philharmonic
We’ve had the Hollywood Bowl for a hundred years now and now the Los Angeles Philharmonic has unveiled a massive 7-LP box set of performances from the storied venue, a healthy 55-recording mix that features performances from Death Cab For Cutie, The Doors, James Brown, the Philharmonic conducted by John Williams, and a bunch of others that convey how important this iconic space has been and remains. (Also, you even get a free tote bag!)
The Walkmen, sadly, are no more, but we’ll always have the music. 2008’s You & Me, one of their most beloved albums, has now gotten a deluxe new vinyl version, dubbed the Sun Studio Edition, which is fully remastered and comes with a fourth side of unreleased tracks from the time, recorded at Sun Studio for PBS.
Beach Boys — Sounds Of Summer: The Very Best Of The Beach Boys
Capitol/UMe
Artists are competing for the unofficial “song of the summer” title for 2022 right now, but if we’re talking all-time, it’s hard to beat the Beach Boys. Well, the group, which celebrates 60 years this year, so they’ve reissued their 2003 Sounds Of Summer compilation, which collects 80 songs from 1962 to 1989, making this a great catch-all option to fill a Beach Boys-sized hole in your vinyl library.
Beastie Boys — Check Your Head (30th Anniversary Reissue)
Beastie Boys
It’s been 30 years since Beastie Boys dropped the classic Check Your Head, so what better way to celebrate than with a new deluxe 4-LP edition? This limited reissue was originally released in 2009 and has been out of print for a good while, and goodies like remixes, live versions, and B-sides make it an especially desirable release.
17th anniversaries aren’t a common one to make a big deal about, but for The Kills’ second album No Wow, it’s worth it. They’ve shared a limited deluxe reissue of the 2005 album that presents two distinct versions of the album: the original and a new mix by Grammy winner Tchad Blake. Furthermore, the deluxe edition has a gold foil gatefold LP jacket, black-and-gold smoke vinyl LP, an exclusive 5×7 print, and a four-page booklet.
One of Vinyl Me, Please’s latest records of the month is the Bright Eyes classic I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning. The LP was widely considered one of 2005’s best and this may be the best vinyl release of it, as the marbled red vinyl is gorgeous and it comes with a listening notes booklet.
The great songs of 2022 so far come in all shapes and sizes. This year, we’ve seen some massive pop hits (looking at you Harry Styles), rappers surprising with both solo tunes and collaborations (not much was bigger than “Pushin P”), and some really emotionally resonant indie jams (Big Thief wrote two discs worth). Some of these songs might have first bubbled up near the end of last year, but their impact really peaked in 2022. Alas, check out Uproxx’s picks for the best songs of 2022 so far below.
Anitta – “Envolver”
Leave it to a Brazilian pop star to make the song that leads to a viral TikTok challenge of people gyrating their asses as they hover-grind the ground below them. It’s no surprise that “Envolver” is the opening track to Anitta’s latest album, Versions Of Me, because it’s far and a way the stickiest track of the bunch. It flashes a rare je ne sais quoi from Anitta, that allows her to spread the wildfire of Spanish language reggaeton throughout her native Brazil (a Portuguese speaking nation), then beam it across the globe before completely breaking loose at Coachella. – Adrian Spinelli
Arcade Fire – “The Lightning I, II”
Arcade Fire’s 2017 album Everything Now had its moments but it was definitely a bit extra, so much so that the band had to offer an (also-extra) apology about how they pushed it. So, this year’s We was an important album for them and it clearly succeeded in a lot of ways. “The Lightning I, II” was the first song the band shared from the LP and it was the perfect mission statement, as it saw the group successfully return to their distinctive, cinematic, rock-driven sound that got fans all those years ago so hyped on them in the first place. – Derrick Rossignol
Bad Bunny – “Ojitos Lindos” Feat. Bomba Estéreo
Bad Bunny’s Un Verano Sin Ti is a monumental statement on both the malleability of reggaeton and also of his status as arguably the biggest star in the world right now. But it’s on the album’s second half, when Benito embraces featured artists from Latinx music’s more alternative realms, that his vision throws us for a welcome and endearing loop. “Ojitos Lindos” is easily the marquee product of this highly successful exercise, where Bomba Estéreo singer Li Saumet flashes her usual grace and forceful delivery. But it’s in how Saumet matches up alongside Bad Bunny so well, that it makes you wonder what could come of more frequent cross-pollinations between whats’s above and below the ground of the music industry. – Ad.S
Bia – “London” Feat. J. Cole
Bia and J. Cole may make for a surprising combination, but boy, does it work! On their collaborative single, “London,” the two rap over a UK-inspired drill beat, following the lead of the likes of Stormzy and Bree Runway. Bia perfectly emulates a British accent while demonstrating her knowledge of UK terminology. She maintains impeccable chemistry with Cole throughout the track, both providing solid examples of their versatility across various subgenres of hip-hop. Bia has been in the game for a hot minute, but if she continues delivering bars like these, 2022 is gearing to be a breakthrough year for the NYC-bred rapper. –Alex Gonzalez
Big Thief – “Certainty”
Big Thief are nothing if not crafty, as shown by their 2022 track “Certainty,” which was written during a massive power outage. The song, which arrived on the band’s mouthful of an album titled Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You, succeeds primarily through the interplay between vocalist Adrianne Lenker’s warm, comforting voice and Buck Meek’s twangy harmonies, serving as complimentary puzzle pieces. It’s got pretty much everything you’d expect in a Big Thief song: wandering, enigmatic lyrics, stripped-down-yet-triumphant chords, and a rambling, hazy beat. – Carolyn Droke
Buddy – “Wait Too Long” Feat. Blxst
The Compton rapper’s return with his first album since 2018’s Harlan & Alondra wasn’t met with the fanfare that it deserved. However, we did receive a lasting memento that’ll almost certainly become a house party mainstay. “Wait Too Long” features a groovy beat courtesy of Hollywood Cole and an earwormy hook from “the West’s new Nate Dogg,” Blxst. It’s very much a feel-good record that captures the throwback vibe of LA classics while updating the formula for a modern audience. – Aaron Williams
Camila Cabello – “Bam Bam” Feat. Ed Sheeran
If there’s one thing we can count on from a pop artist following the split of a long-term relationship, it’s a breakup bop to fuel our summer playlists. The second single off Camila Cabello’s third album Familia, “Bam Bam” featuring Ed Sheeran is a salsa inspired, Latin pop dance track paying homage to her Cuban roots. The lyrics convey the message that even when nothing seems to be going your way, you just have to keep on dancing. Así es la vida sí – That’s just life baby! – Lindsey Burton
Carly Rae Jepsen – “Western Wind”
It’s been a minute since CRJ has had a pop hit like “Call Me Maybe,” “Good Time,” or “I Really Like You.” (The latter was actually her latest song to make the Hot 100 chart, in 2015.) Defining Jepsen by what she hasn’t been lately misses a lot, though, because she’s still been bringing the goods on a consistent basis. This year’s “Western Wind,” for example, takes the warm breeziness of Lorde’s Solar Power but pushes it in a more enveloping, full-bodied direction, making it a perfect cool-down between the upbeat hits set to dominate the upcoming months. – D.R.
Caroline Polachek – “Billions”
While “Billions” isn’t necessarily the absolute banger that fans of Polachek’s previous single, “Bunny Is A Rider,” were hoping for, it does bring her new music full circle so to speak. A long, linear verse structure circles back with hypnotic vocal flourishes until Polachek hits that titular word, all but reclaiming it from the ruling class who are tucked safely away in their estates. This one won’t be sparking any TikTok dance trends — it doesn’t have the melodies of “So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings” or the pure night sky vibes of “Bunny” — but it’s a solid entry into Polachek’s growing solo catalogue. – Caitlin White
Charli XCX – “Beg For You” Feat. Rina Sawayama
Charli and Rina took everything there is to love about British pop music and wrapped it in an exploding bow on “Beg For You.” The pair gush and pan over a lover like it’s nobody’s business on this fiery banger that, when it dropped in January, felt like summer came early. Digital Farm Animals’ production adds a UK garage twist to a sample from an early ’00s Swedish pop number, rendering it pure dance pop bliss from two of the most exciting singers in the business. – Ad.S
Chlöe – “Treat Me”
Chlöe has been analyzed and talked about more than the young singer may have expected in her career. While 2021 was her coming-out party as a solo act, 2022 seems to be the year where her full vision and individual artistry will be shared with the masses. “Treat Me” was her latest step in that process and it was truly a moment of progression for Chlöe. Her prowess and fierceness are on full display on the bouncy record which proves that Chlöe’s solo project will be much different than what we’re used to hearing from her. – Wongo Okon
Christian Lee Hutson – “Strawberry Lemonade”
Christian Lee Hutson manages to continually craft timeless ballads, exemplified by his song “Strawberry Lemonade.” The single arrived on his sophomore album Quitters, which was produced by Phoebe Bridgers and Conor Oberst. With stand-out heart-tugging lyrics like, “Pain is a way to move through time and visit people who are gone in your mind,” “Strawberry Lemonade” offers a series of vignettes about holding onto memories, the art of letting go, and how our society collectively remembers the past. –C.D.
Coi Leray – “Aye Yai Yai” Feat. Bleu
Coi Leray and Bleu fuse their melodic vocals like Yu-Gi-Oh cards on “Aye Yai Yai,” being very straightforward about their desire for an intense, drug-laced sexcapade. Bleu Vandross is presented with the opportunity to be with someone new, but can’t get his mind off of a past lover who put it on him so well he’s got 911 looking for her. Leray, on the other hand, revels in being the one getting chased and takes pride in the fact her lady parts have the guy running back, even though it bothers her that certain men have more attitude than her and lie a lot. Though their narratives are different, Bleu and Coi blend very well together, especially when both man the chorus on “Aye Yai Yai.” – Armon Sadler
Dave – “Starlight”
The BRIT Award-winner’s March single flips a sample of the jazz standard “Fly Me To The Moon” to take a reflective look at the life he lives and how much it’s changed from his days growing up in the endz of South London. It’s a sign not just of his growing fame but also of his expanding artistry; a far cry from the gritty hip-hop and glitchy grime with which Dave made his name, “Starlight” is the latest indication that he’s become a crossover star capable of greater heights than previously imagined. – A.W.
Doechii – “Persuasive”
Using this song to make her grand introduction to the global stage offered by her recent signing to Top Dawg Entertainment, Doechii also quickly gets listeners accustomed to her fearless boundary-blurring and boldly defiant outlook. Influenced as much by house music and queer culture as by the moody backpack gangsta rap that defines so much of the label’s roster, Doechii takes things in a familiar but futuristic direction — both for her new label home and hip-hop as a whole. – A.W.
Dove Cameron – “Boyfriend”
Dove Cameron might’ve been best known for her work as an actress before this year, but now that “Boyfriend” is here, music fans are on high alert. Dove is an artist who has only recently locked into the exact sound she’s been looking for, and “Boyfriend” is the dramatic queer anthem that put her on the map, even charting within the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Dark and sultry, “Boyfriend” reintroduces Dove to the music world, and it’s very clear this clever single is just the beginning. – C.W.
Ethel Cain – “American Teenager”
Genre-bending prodigy Ethel Cain has come crashing into the indie world, sending an electric current with her elegant, haunting songs. Sitting amongst songs that wander through darkness is “American Teenager,” a standout with its anthemic chorus and bright texture. It’s a high point on Preacher’s Daughter, a glimpse of light that grows over the course of its four minutes. The song engulfs the listener in its infectious excitement as she calls for a fight: “Say what you want / But say it like you mean it with your fists for once.” – Danielle Chelosky
FKA Twigs – “Jealousy” Feat. Rema
FKA Twigs kicked off the year with Caprisongs, a collection of hip-hop and dancehall inspired tracks. One of the standouts is the beachy “Jealousy,” on which she declares independence from an ex and their jealous ways. The song takes inspiration from afrobeats and features a verse by Rema, who rides the beat smoothly and in sync with Twigs. Many of Caprisongs’ tracks are melancholy in nature, but “Jealousy” provides a glimmer of hope amid feelings of longing and regret. – A.G.
Fred Again.. – “Lights Out” Feat. Romi, HAAI
Fred Again.. previously noted that when making “Lights Out,” he immediately sent it to Haai and The xx’s Romy, both of whom ended up featuring on the song. He also compared Romy’s lyrics and vocals on it to “a hug from a rave angel” and rarely has an artist statement hit the nail to squarely on the head. As has been the case with so many The xx songs over the years, Romy’s distinct vocals are the perfect fit for this one, an atmospheric and excitingly structured number built for euphoric dancefloor moments. – D.R.
Future – “Wait For U” Feat. Drake, Tems
There are multiple takeaways available from Future’s “Wait For U.” The record is hisfirst chart-topping song as lead artist, and it’s also the first song with a Nigerian artist to debut at No. 1. The record is the latest entry on Future’s HNDRXX-esque catalog while it also strikes as the latest in a long list of memorable collaborations between him and Drake. For Future, the success of the lovelorn “Wait For U” is proof that more than a decade into his career, the Atlanta trap star hasn’t lost a step when it comes to composing the best records. – W.O.
Gayle – “ABCDEFU”
If you were on TikTok at all this year, chances are you have the catchy chorus to Gayle’s debut track “Abcdefu” seared into your memory. Now used in nearly 2.5 million videos across the app, “Abcdefu” shows the 17-year-old singer challenging traditional songwriting norms. Her unapologetic fury is tangible on the track as she throws a hearty “f*ck you” at everyone who tolerated an ex’s distasteful behavior. Proving herself more than a one-hit wonder, “Abcdefu” appeared on the singer’s alt-rock-infused debut EP, A Study Of The Human Experience Vol. I. – C.D.
Gunna and Future – “Pushin P” Feat. Young Thug
“Pushin P” recalls the magic of 2019’s “Unicorn Purp” off of Future Hndrxx Presents: The Wizrd, but Future takes Young Thug’s place in trading lines with Gunna this time around. Though the definition of “Pushin P” is still a bit unclear, it truly doesn’t matter. The trio raps with fury over the Wheezy and Juke Wong-produced track, branding their usual confident flexes and lyrical gymnastics with a specific commitment to utilizing words that begin with the letter “P” as much as possible. The song became a major viral sensation, rightfully so. Who else but three of the most eclectic acts of today would make the blue P emoji so visible? – Ar.S.
HAAI and Jon Hopkins – “Baby, We’re Ascending”
Jon Hopkins has become one of electronic music’s most revered figures over the past two decades, so if he hops on a track with another artist, they’re probably worth paying attention to. Indeed, Haai has been an exciting up-and-comer in recent years, so much so that she got Hopkins to join her on the title track of her debut album, Baby, We’re Ascending. The six-minute tune does more than ascend, as the sky-high production (rooted in a firm, consistent, and deep rhythm) lets this tune get delightfully lost way above the clouds. – D.R.
Harry Styles – “As It Was”
Kicking off his Harry’s House era with this single was a great move. It surprised people with its indie-pop aura; the colorful synths, breezy rhythms, and gentle vocals drew comparisons to bands like Wallows and The Drums. But it also has an infectious melody that sticks; his downtrodden words contrasted against the upbeat sound create an irresistible bittersweet atmosphere as he sings the spellbinding hook: “You know it’s not the same as it was / In this world, it’s just us.” – D.C.
Hitkidd & Glorilla – “FNF (Let’s Go)”
“I’m F-R-E-E, f*ck n**** free,” y’all know the rest! If you haven’t heard of Glorilla yet, her song “FNF (Let’s Go)” produced by Hitkidd is hard to miss if you spend a ton of time on TikTok. Barely released in May, the video has already accumulated over 12 million views and it features Glo literally outside, hanging out the window at a red light, with her friends. Not a man in sight! Let’s goooooooo! – Cherise Johnson
Jack Harlow – “Churchill Downs” Feat. Drake
Released right on time for Derby Day on Harlow’s sophomore album, Come Home, The Kids Miss You, “Churchill Downs” pairs Harlow, a budding superstar, with his idol, Drake. On the song, Harlow raps about his adjustment to stardom, while Drake reflects on more than a decade in the rap game. The two slide over a smooth Boi-1-da production, with a prominent female vocal sample in the background. As “Churchill Downs” follows the traditional Drake formula, there was never any doubt that it was bound to be a hit. – A.G.
Jenny Hval – “Year Of Love”
An avant pop fixture, Hval has always been a complex, yet perfectly methodical lyricist. Yet “Year of Love” might be her most ambitious arrangement of a song yet, with it’s build-up of synths, strings, and congas (oh, those congas!). All the while, Hval narrates a pensive moment where how witnessing a couple’s engagement from the stage at one of her shows made her question the matrimonial institution. Hval has never presented herself with such a fluid structure, and never has she been so… pop. It’s a sublime experiment that never never ceases to keep building up into one damn, hell, ass thrill of a song. – Ad.S
Kay Flock – “Shake It” Feat. Cardi B, Dougie B, and Bory300
Since delivering her record-setting and Grammy-winning debut album, Cardi B has given us memorable moments year after year as we wait for her second album. Whether it’s the controversial “WAP” or her pregnancy reveal during a performance of “Type Sh*t,” Cardi B knows how to make her impact. In 2022, one of those moments would be her combative verse on Kay Flock’s “Shake It” with Dougie B and Bory300. Her electrifying contribution to the song is truly captivating from start to finish as it accentuates another layer of Cardi’s versatile artistry. – W.O.
Kendrick Lamar – “Savior” Feat. Baby Keem & Sam Dew
I’m not sure when exactly so-called “conscious rap” became cool. There was a time that a focus on political or social lyrics would get a rapper mocked. Whenever things changed, Kendrick Lamar is here to remind listeners that, even amid the rise of pro-Black sentiments in hip-hop, artists are not necessarily the political leaders and organizers we need to effect lasting change. “Kendrick made you think about it,” he muses, “but he is not your savior.” Now, those are words to live by. – A.W.
Kodak Black – “Super Gremlin”
Kodak Black’s “Super Gremlin” is one of those songs that gets stuck in an incessant cerebral loop and pushes you to press play just one more time. Producer ATL Jacob spazzed on the beat alternating between haunting strings and cheery piano keys, the kid-sung chorus adds it the song’s menacing trance. “We could’ve been superstars,” Yak sings along with the kids. “Remember when we was jacking cars? Now it’s not safe for you.” With loads of accolades, “Super Gremlin” deservedly hit No. 1 on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart and No. 3 on the Hot 100 chart. – C.J.
Latto – “Sunshine” Feat. Childish Gambino & Lil Wayne
“Sunshine” is a gift that keeps on giving. Latto’s chorus reflects on how people used her in the past before she emerged bright, and her spicy verse punctuates the energy she is currently on. A vintage performance from Lil Wayne seamlessly complements what Latto had to say, and then a rare Childish Gambino verse, possibly one of the best of his career, sends it over the edge. The three all have unique, well-documented stories and provide substantial snapshots on top of simply impressive lyricism. It is actually difficult deciding who has the best verse. – Ar.S.
Lizzo – “About Damn Time”
Whether you’ve heard Lizzo’s “About Damn Time” on the radio, in the club, or on various TikToks, the song is inescapable. And we’re not complaining. This funkadelic, feel-good banger is exactly what we needed for the summer, with Lizzo’s soulful vocals combining with her energetic rap-singing to deliver the confidence boost the doctor ordered. Throw that over a disco-inspired beat, and you have a contender for the bad b*tch anthem of the summer. – A.G.
“Heat Lightning” is a brooding ballad that displays Mitski’s ability to connect to listeners through scarce means. With just eerie chords and her fearless narration — “There’s nothing I can do / Not much I can change / I give it up to you, I surrender” — she sings in a kind of bold declaration against an off-kilter, distorted sound that builds behind her. The song never reaches a point that’s too high; it continues on a steady path, prioritizing patience and an appreciation for simplicity. – D.C.
Nilufer Yanya – “Midnight Sun”
There are many fine moments on Nilüfer Yanya’s spectacular Painless, but “Midnight Sun” represents the one where the she finds the fortitude to preserve past forces that could drive her down. It’s an emotional triumph, but Yanya always presents these breakthroughs with nothing but poise; she’s a pinnacle of strength when she’s behind the mic and holding her guitar. A deep acoustic strum feels like it’s right out of “Everlong,” before the chorus rocks you gently with a warm electric riff and punchy drum machine beat. It’s a masterful display from the Brit. – Ad.S
Normani – “Fair”
While we wait for Normani’s long-anticipated debut album, she is continuing to showcase her range on a variety of singles. Last year, her Aaliyah-sampling “Wild Side” showed off her pop chops, while this year’s “Fair” features Normani singing of heartbreak over a minimalistic beat, by way of silky, flawless vocals. Proving to be skilled in a variety of genres, Normani can’t be put in a box. While we have nary an idea of when she’ll drop her debut album, or even a follow-up single, one thing is for sure — Normani is always worth the wait. – A.G.
Phoebe Bridgers – “Sidelines”
The “Motion Sickness” singer’s only new material of this year so far is this song “Sidelines,” but it’s enough to keep us satisfied for a while. The lush synths are reminiscent of the watery atmosphere of Punisher, blending beautifully with soaring violins as Bridgers charms with her incisive lyrics: “Used to fetishize myself / Now I’m talking to my house plants.” It moves seamlessly in an almost upward motion; it’s a rare moment of hope and persistence, more uplifting than most of her songs. – D.C.
PinkPantheress – “Where You Are” Feat. WILLOW
Few songs have staying power outside of the Tik-Tok algorithm, but leave it to the English pop-princess PinkPantheress to deliver. Produced by Pantheress alongside Mura Masa and Skrillex, the track features a sample from Paramore’s “Never Let This Go” and Willow’s angsty crooning, adding depth to its pop-rock tone. Like her debut album, To Hell With It, the viral star layers her breathy vocals and confessional lyrics over youthful instrumentals, creating the perfect addition to any Gen Z-ers playlist. The song and its heavy-hitting production aren’t just good or catchy but proof of PinkPantheress’ industry star-power outside of your #fyp. – Ellice D. Ellis
Pusha T – “Diet Coke”
Pusha T couldn’t have picked a better starting point to bring us towards his fourth album It’s Almost Dry. “Diet Coke” has a catchy appeal while also flaunting Pusha’s impressive lyricism. Lines like “Imaginary players ain’t been coached right!” are sure to be said in unison within large crowds while others like “Young Gs like we Hov and Puff” capture the double entendres we love to hear from Pusha. He stuck to his guns with “Diet Coke,” and it proved to be the best decision for the rap veteran. – W.O.
Raveena – “Rush”
Raveena went with an intriguing concept for her sophomore album Asha’s Awakening, which is told from the perspective of a Punjabi space princess. Indeed, there is an Indian flavor on the LP, which Raveena, who was born in Massachusetts after her parents immigrated from India, successfully blends with pop and R&B. “Rush” is a prime example of that, both in its stylistic meldings and the colorful, Bollywood-inspired video for the song. – D.R.
Rema – “Calm Down”
Rema submitted his bid for song of the summer in February with the Afrobeats jam “Calm Down.” He knew exactly the type of record he made, opening with the exclamation “another banger” before firmly requesting that the object of his affection follow the song’s title. “Calm Down” hits a euphoric peak in the chorus, with the repetitive “Oh,” “Whoa,” and “Lo.” Even if you have trouble figuring out the rest of the lyrics, those lines are more than enough to accompany the dancing you may not even realize the song has forced out of you. It is a spiritual experience. – Ar.S.
Rosalía – “Saoko”
The lead statement on Rosalía’s globe-smashing, Motomami, “Saoko” asserts the Spaniard’s unapologetic intention of morphing into a medium for Latinx music in all its forms. “Yo soy muy mía, yo me transformo. Una mariposa, yo me transformo,” she sings (“I am very much me, I transform. A butterfly, I transform.”) The track itself is a nod to Daddy Yankee and Wisin’s 2004 “Saoco,” and Rosalía puts it down over a menacing thump in spades. It symbolizes her arrival as much more than just a Flamenco pop muse, but rather a full blown “motomamí.” – Ad.S
Saweetie – “Closer” Feat. HER
It may have taken her a while to find her footing outside of the 2000s throwbacks with which she first broke into the spotlight, but this year, Saweetie’s been proving that she deserves every bit of it. Showing that she’s every bit as adept at conquering contemporary sounds as she was classic ones, the Bay Area rapper takes her own swing at the disco-pop trend that has been so beneficial for peers like Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion and knocks it right out of the park. – A.W.
Soccer Mommy – “Shotgun”
Taken from her impressive next album Sometimes, Forever, “Shotgun” offers a captivating glimpse into Soccer Mommy’s evolving sound. Not only is she a master of catchy melodies, but she crafts complex atmospheres. This track reverberates with uneasiness; the instrumentation is eerie and off-kilter, but there’s a contrasting playfulness. Sophie Allison’s words, despite their intensity, are sung casually: “So whenever you want me I’ll be around / I’m a bullet in a shotgun waiting to sound.” The stakes are higher than they were in 2018’s breakthrough Clean, and she’s experimenting more since 2020’s Color Theory, making for possibly her most interesting record yet. – D.C.
Spoon – “Wild”
Spoon have been at it for decades now and they haven’t really faltered. Heck, they’re perhaps the most consistently great rock band ever. February’s Lucifer On The Sofa was another fine entry in their oeuvre that’s highlighted by “Wild,” a stomping, uplifting number on which Britt Daniel’s distinctive vocal grit finds a perfect home. Spoon is in rare territory in that nearly 30 years after their debut album, they’re still making songs, like this one, that could be considered among their best. – D.R.
Syd & Lucky Daye – “CYBAH”
Returning from a four-year solo hiatus, California soulster Syd displays incredible musical growth following 2018’s Fin. Where she was once an adherent to the dominant sound of moody, washed-out R&B as popularized by Drake and his offspring, she now digs deeper into the full range of Black music, unearthing long-dormant ’80s funk and quiet storm. She’s become a student of Prince, and as this song proves, there is no better teacher than the Purple One. – A.W.
Tate McRae – “She’s All I Wanna Be”
Tate McRae’s massive debut I Used To Think I Could Fly is finally out, but this single remains one of the most compelling songs on the album. The electric guitars and bouncy rhythm lend the track a Machine Gun Kelly-esque, pop-punk edge, enhanced by resentful lyricism, fuzzy synthesizers, and a relentlessly catchy melody. “She’s All I Wanna Be” showcases McRae’s knack for infectious pop anthems tinged with frustration and jealousy. – D.C.
Vince Staples – “When Sparks Fly”
If you were waiting for a signature A. Smarter hot take, here it is: Sure, Nas did it first, with “I Gave You Power,” but Long Beach native Vince Staples did it better thirty years later. Refining the formula first employed by the thug poet on his second album It Was Written, Vince gives the metaphor more poignancy and depth by framing it as a tragic love story, then places it over an absolutely gorgeous musical backdrop by Frano that only highlights how depressingly inevitable the scenario is — and has been for a very long time.
The Weeknd – “Less Than Zero”
It’s easy to get swept up by the sound and scale of The Weeknd’s best-ever album Dawn FM. Each song seems like it cost $1 million to make and came out sounding like $10 million. But on “Less Than Zero,” the “Big ’80s” production merely enhances that world-class songwriting on display, which just about matches the bygone pop behemoths that the song emulates. – Steven Hyden
Wet Leg – “Too Late Now”
Wet Leg were perhaps the most-hyped indie band making their debut in 2022, and tracks like “Too Late Now” prove why. Arriving as a single ahead of their self-titled album, “Too Late Now” opens with lead singer Rhian Teasdale infusing her far-reaching vocals with upbeat, cascading rhythms. It starts as shimmering pop-leaning tune before the bridge shifts to a catchy and highly relatable spoken-word stream of consciousness about dating apps, self-doubt, and writer’s block. – C.D.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs – “Spitting Off The Edge Of The World”
Nearly a decade after the release of their last album, Yeah Yeah Yeahs are making a triumphant comeback. The band’s new single “Spitting Off The Edge Of The World,” which is set to appear on the upcoming album Cool It Down, shows just how much they’ve evolved in the last nine years. Rather than pairing frenetic guitars and upbeat synths to recreate their early eccentric indie-pop sound, Yeah Yeah Yeahs take their music in a more wistful and down-tempo direction. Featuring Perfume Genius and production by TV On The Radio’s Dave Sitek, the track is a haunting and euphoric ballad inspired by the looming anxiety of climate change. – C.D.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
This month’s slate of Artists To Watch is especially eclectic and positively fire. Follow along as we jump from dynamic British afrobeats and the next rapper about to take over, to an indie band on repeat, real Brazilian sh*t, and more. These are the artists to watch for in May. And this is On The Up.
Obongjayar
The Nigerian-born, London rapper came firmly into focus last year on Little Simz’s track “Point And Kill.” But it was on the first single from his upcoming album, “Message In A Hammer,” (with one of the best videos of last year) where we get to witness the menacing, raspy-tongued rapper establishing his piercing singular vision. A dynamic MC, he fuses British rap and afrobeats with a silky vocal delivery that touches newfound forms of R&B. On “Try,” the whole range of his voice — from a fine-grain sandpaper flow to his sweet coo over atmospheric production — is on full display. His debut, Some Nights I Dream of Doors, is due out on May 13th.
Momma
While Momma’s third LP (and first since signing with Polyvinyl Records), Household Name, isn’t out until July 1st, the singles that the Brooklyn alt-indie band has released leading up to it oughta be living on repeat in your speakers. Led by Etta Friedman and Allegra Weingarten, Momma has heavy vibes of The Breeders, with the vocalist pair complementing each other a la Kim and Kelley Deal. They supported Wet Leg on their sold-out tour earlier this year and will be joining Snail Mail for theirs in August. But we can’t say enough about how sticky Momma’s first three singles are. They channel ’90s nostalgia in a decidedly of-the-moment package, like on “Speeding 72” when they sing, “You can catch us around, Listening to “Gold Soundz”. Keep me in your car,” before a harmonic guitar riff takes the melody into space.
Domi & JD Beck
The future is here. Domi & JD Beck are two jazz prodigies signed to Anderson .Paak’s Apeshit label, who are starting to build some serious buzz. They backed Thundercat and Ariana Grande’s version of “Them Changes” at the 2020 Adult Swim Festival, sat in with the legendary Herbie Hancock at the Hollywood Bowl last year, co-wrote Silk Sonic’s “Skate,” and their debut album is due out later this year on Apeshit and Blue Note Records. The 21-year-old Domi plays keys, is French, and sports blonde pigtails that flap in unison with her hypnotic fingers tickling the ivories. At 18, the shaggy-haired JD Beck plays drums like he’s possessed by Gregory Coleman, and puts down some of the most dizzying snare work you’ve ever heard. They just dropped their debut single, “Smile,” which features .Paak, Thundercat, and Mac DeMarco in the hilarious video. The visual is a prime example of how they infuse child-like fun into complete and utter mastery of their instruments and it’s them who will surely continue to spread the gospel of real next-level jazz music to future generations.
Sessa
In 2019, Brazilian singer and multi-instrumentalist emerged as a unique talent in the shape of the bossanova and tropicalia greats like Caetano Veloso, João Gilberto, and Antonio Carlos Jobim. His debut album, Grandeza, presented gorgeously-woven poetic expressions of love that only Brazilians are capable of articulating. Now he’s signed to Mexican Summer for the June 24th release of Estrela Acessa and the lead single, ”Gostar Do Mundo,” is a globally-minded declaration of otherworldly desire. Alongside a gentle guitar, Brazilian percussion, and female backing singers, he swoons, “Chega mais pra cá, moço lindo desse lugar. Vem me namorar, sabe o mundo vai acabar”. (translation: “Come closer, good looking man from this place. Come nestle up against me, because the world is ending you know.”) This is the stuff right here.
Doechii
Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) has been notoriously insular in thrusting forward the career of artists from Kendrick Lamar to SZA. But when the venerable hip-hop label announced a new partnership with Capitol Records last month, Doechii was at the center of it. The Tampa rapper is here to usher in the next movement of the TDE roster and she’s come out with a serious bang. The absolutely bonkers (and NSFW) video for “Crazy” feels like it’s floating fiercely over an OG Timbaland beat (it’s actually produced by Kal Banx.) On “Persuasive,” she flashes a silkier side of herself, one that’s indulgent and coyly extravagant. No word yet on an album release, but don’t be sleeping on Doechii.
Doechii is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music.
Keeping track of all the new albums coming out in a given month is a big job, but we’re up for it: Below is a comprehensive list of the major releases you can look forward to in May. If you’re not trying to potentially miss out on anything, it might be a good idea to keep reading.
Friday, May 6
!!! — Let It Be Blue (Warp)
Aaron Raitiere — Wide Dreamer (Dinner Time Rec)
Alison Wonderland — Loner (EMI Music Australia)
Alune Wade — Sultan (Enja Records)
The Americans — Stand True (Loose Music)
Anna Calvi — Tommy EP (Domino Recordings)
Arcade Fire — We (Columbia)
Astor Piazzolla — Astor Piazzolla: The American Clavé Recordings (Nonesuch)
Aundrey Guillaume. — Energy EP (Secretly Canadian)
Awolnation — My Echo, My Shadow, My Covers, And Me (Better Noise Music)
Bad Planning — Et Fortes (Jump Start Records)
Belle And Sebastian — A Bit Of Previous (Matador Records)
Bill Fay — Still Some Light: Part 2 (Dead Oceans)
The Black Crowes — 1972 EP (Amazon Music)
Bottler — Journey Work (InFiné)
Brennen Leigh — Obsessed with The West (Signature Sounds)
The Builders And The Butchers — Hell & High Water (Badman)
C Duncan — Alluvium (Bella Union)
Emeli Sandé — Let’s Say For Instance (Chrysalis Records)
The Feeling — Loss. Hope. Love (Island Records)
Flight Mode — Torshov, ’05 EP (Sound as Language)
Francesco Lurgo — Sleep Together Folded Like Origami (Bosco Rec)
Anybody who thought the vinyl resurgence was just a fad was mistaken: The industry has experienced a legitimate revival. As a result, music fans are interested in physical media in ways they may not have if the decades-old medium hasn’t made a comeback. That doesn’t mean everybody is listening to just their parents’ old music, though. That’s part of it, sure, thanks to rereleases that present classic albums in new ways. A vital part of the renewed vinyl wave, though, is new projects being released as records, of which there are plenty.
Whatever you might be into, each month brings a new slew of vinyl releases that has something for everybody. Some stand out above the rest, naturally, so check out some of our favorite vinyl releases of April below.
El-P — Fantastic Damage (20th Anniversary Reissue), I’ll Sleep When You’re Dead (15th Anniversary Reissue), Cancer 4 Cure (10th Anniversary Reissue)
While El-P is best known today as half of Run The Jewels alongside Killer Mike, he had previously made a name for himself with his own material. He put out three solo albums between 2002 and 2012, with each one of them celebrating a milestone anniversary here in 2022. So, now, El has made those albums available on vinyl for the first time in years, all getting special colored pressings.
Wet Leg has Dave Grohl’s attention and they should have yours, too. The Isle Of Wight duo is fresh off releasing their beloved self-titled debut album, which went No. 1 in the UK and Australia. The album has a lot going on besides viral hit “Chaise Longue,” all of which are sure to be delightful when experienced on a turntable.
Sixth time was the charm for French group M83, as their sixth album, 2012’s Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming, was their most iconic release and biggest success so far. It’s been a decade since the release of the Grammy-nominated album, which has prompted an anniversary reissue, pressed on vibrant orange vinyl and emblazoned with alternate cover art.
Terror Twilight is a truly classic Pavement release and now it’s being given a reissue so in-depth that it necessitates a new title: Terror Twilight: Farewell Horizontal. This edition of the album has a ton of extras, most notably 28 previously unreleased tracks, consisting of the remastered original album, B-sides, home demos, rehearsal tapes, live recordings, and even the rough tracks from a scrapped session.
Vile recently told Uproxx of his new album, “Basically, I just want it to be as honest as possible. I want the songs to creep up to me. In the older days, I used to think too much. ‘Oh, why am I not writing? Am I going to write a good song?’ None of that matters, because now I like when I’m not writing. I like to be present in whatever I’m doing and then the music comes through inspiration. If you just go about your day, inspiration’s going to strike. I’m not too worried about anything really. I feel like I’ve proved a lot on this album, to be honest. But at the same time, I have nothing to prove.”
Marvin Gaye — What’s Going On (50th Anniversary Reissue)
Motown/UMe
What’s Going On has been at or near the top of so many “best albums of all time” lists that it truly justifies the cliche of needing no introduction. The album is 50 years old now and a new reissue in honor of that milestone is full of treats. Included here are four rare cuts making their vinyl debut, including a previously unreleased “stripped” version of the title track.
Queen is of course Brian May’s biggest claim to fame, but he also had a handful of solo albums following Freddie Mercury’s death. Now, 1998’s Another World has been given new life via a fresh reissue, which, among other goodies, includes Another Disc, a collection of alternative versions, B-sides, and live recordings.
Jack White, perhaps the music industry’s biggest supporter of vinyl, has a new album out, so it’s only natural to pick it up in LP form. Furthermore, Target has an exclusive “moon glow white” pressing of it, which pairs gorgeously with the cover art.
A Tribe Called Quest — The Low End Theory (Vinyl Me, Please reissue)
Vinyl Me, Please
Speaking of prominent figures in the vinyl community, Vinyl Me, Please has been up to a lot lately: Aside from announcing a new pressing plant in Denver, one of the latest albums of the month is a reissue of A Tribe Called Quest’s classic album The Low End Theory, a 2-LP release that is pressed on aesthetically simple and perfect red and green vinyl.
VMP’s monthly album selections are their main attraction, but they have other sorts of exclusive pressings available, too. For example, they’re currently offering an edition of Toro y Moi’s new album Mahal, pressed on “blue jay and white” vinyl. To even further connect this specific pressing with the aesthetics of the album cover, VMP references the bus on the cover by offering a bumper sticker, the sort of clever nod that helps make VMP the best at what they do.
We pride ourselves in covering a lot of ground daily here at Uproxx, always looking to highlight the best music releases in hip-hop, indie, pop, and more. But there are a lot of tunes out there in the world that sometimes get past the radar when they first get released. So this piece is dedicated to making sure that some of those gems don’t go unnoticed. These are the best albums that you might have missed that were released from early December through the end of March.
Atalhos – A Tentação do Fracasso
It doesn’t take long to get swept into the Brazilian band’s psychedelic dream pop on their debut album. The jangly guitar riff on opening song “Tierra Del Fuego” is super sweet and it sets the stage for an album filled with them. The album’s title itself is a phrase in Portuguese that means “the temptation of failure” and it’s this kind of carefree poetry that typifies the unique lyricism of songwriter Gabriel Soares and Atalhos. From the title track to “Mesmo Coração,” their fuzzy São Paulo grooves are nostalgic like Real Estate and committed to varying guitar sounds like Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever. There are moments of Spanish along with the album’s primarily Portuguese singing — plus a touch of saxophone — resulting in eight tracks that will be living on repeat all year.
Nia Archives – Forbidden Feelingz
The debut EP from London producer and singer Nia Archives will hit you like a freight train. Mostly because her blend of jungle and garage beats with soul-packed vocals is laid down like silky steel. Think back to what you felt when you first heard PinkPantheress, ’cause this is right there with it, but with a more direct lean towards the dance floor. You wanna make a mean bass face when the thick, chunky beat hits on “Luv Like,” but then open your eyes wide open and blissfully tip your head back when Nia’s heavenly vocals come in. There are old-school dancehall ragga jungle vibes throughout and the only downfall is that the EP only has six tracks. But they all bang.
Maggie Gently – Peppermint
Previously the lead singer of erstwhile San Francisco queer pop-punk band The Total Bettys, Peppermint is Maggie Gently’s debut solo album. Her upbeat indie-pop tunes are akin to acts like Clairo and Rosie Tucker, and these are very much songs about anxiety, love, identity, and finding personal growth while balancing your mental health. “I can’t put it into words why I’m so worried,” she sings over a lively guitar lick on “Worried.” “Hold My Hand” has a melody that sounds right of the solid gold ’90s in the best way possible and this is an album indie fans shouldn’t let slip through the cracks.
Gabriels – Bloodline
The first time I heard Jacob Lusk’s vocals on “Blame” I was floored. There’s an inherent elegance to his velvet baritone and perhaps I thought he was British at first. Turns out Lusk is a Compton native who grew up singing in a gospel choir, appeared on the 10th season of American Idol, and has sung with artists ranging from Diana Ross to Nate Dogg. Gabriels is the emerging trio of Lusk and Hollywood-minded multi-instrumentalists Ari Balouzian and Ryan Hope. On the LA retro-soul and R&B group’s second EP, Lusk is sublime over cinematic production, proving Gabriels to be a growing force.
Widowspeak – The Jacket
Signed to the influential Captured Tracks label, Brooklyn duo Widowspeak’s latest album is a glorious blend of shoegaze and cowboy pop. Singer Molly Hamilton evokes shades of Mazzy Star’s Hope Sandoval and together with Robert Earl Thomas, they use fuzzy guitars in the shotgun seat of a very chilled-out collection of songs. “Everything Is Simple” is propped up by Hamilton’s mesmerizing coo while twangy guitars and soothing keys round out an arresting tune. This is music tailor-made for a relaxed lamplit evening, or a sunny afternoon on a porch with a rickety swing for kicks.
Lil Yee – Unbreakable
San Francisco street rap is having a resurgence and rappers like Lil Yee are at the forefront of the movement. Now on his third album, Unbreakable is Yee’s ode to succeeding in life, while remaining loyal to friends, family, and the soil. There are a ton of seriously epic slaps on this album. “Free The Home Team” is a bonafide Bay Area hip-hop anthem featuring fellow SFer Lil Pete. “Come From” is a humble nod to his Fillmore District upbringing and being grateful for the life he’s leading, while “ChiAli” is an impassioned call to the ghost of his dead uncle. There are guests on the album like Detroit’s Babyface Ray and Berkeley’s Rexx Life Raj, but it’s Yee and lines like “Why’d I come that far to throw it all away?” that represent the hustle that’s unique to the Bay Area street rap grind.
Combo Chimbita – Ire
One of the most bombastic Latinx music groups, Combo Chimbita is forged in the mystical lore and revolutionary spirit of singer Carolina Oliveros’ native Colombia. The Brooklyn-based group fuze traditional rhythms with boundary-pushing instrumentation, making Ire one of the most powerful albums out this year. “Mujer Jaguar” is a contorting number with twisty strings, pulsing bass, and Afro-Caribbean drums surrounding Oliveros’ banshee howl. “Memoria” has a straight-up electro-lounge beat while “Babalawo,” with a trap-rock groove, dance music sensibility, and lyrics channeling Santeria, might very well be their defining jam. Guitarist Nino Lento Es Fuego summed up the latter in a statement, saying that, “These intimate moments of spiritual guidance are incredibly important to us as a band with decolonial aspirations.”
Soul Glo – Diaspora Problems
A hardcore and screamo punk band at their core, Philadelphia band Soul Glo do everything loud. But Diaspora Problems is a gut punch that sounds like a rapper making a hardcore album. Singer Pierce Jordan is incredibly verbose, packing in extensive diatribes on each of the album’s twelve tracks. On “Jump!! (Or Get Jumped!!!)((by the future))” he sings, “Living on Juice Wrld, Pop Smoke time. I’ll be in my future, come try to remove it, I live only for this, it’s how I must do it. There’s no way they can take what I say and skew it.” In a genre dominated by mostly white artists, Soul Glo — with three Black members out of four — offer a perspective in punk that is underrepresented and is hopefully here to shape the future of it.
Keeping track of all the new albums coming out in a given month is a big job, but we’re up for it: Below is a comprehensive list of the major releases you can look forward to in April. If you’re not trying to potentially miss out on anything, it might be a good idea to keep reading.
Friday, April 1
Alabaster DePlume — Gold (International Anthem)
Amine Mesnaoui And Labelle — African Prayers (Lo Recordings)
Battle Ave — I Saw The Egg (Friends Club Records/Totally Real Records)
Beau Diako — Nylon (Juno Records)
Big Cheeko — Block Barry White (Nature)
Blue Wilson — Future Street (Acrophase Records)
Casually Here — Possible Worlds (Algebra Records)
Christian Alexander — I Don’t Like You (Video Store)
Christian Lee Hutson — Quitters (ANTI- Records)
Confidence Man — Tilt (Heavenly Recordings)
Crows — Beware Believers (Bad Vibrations Records)
Daniel Johns — FutureNever (BMG)
Daryl Hall — BeforeAfter (Legacy Recordings)
The Dead Tongues — Dust (Psychic Hotline)
Deathcave — II EP (Satanik Royalty Records)
Desaparecidos — Live At Shea Stadium (Freeman Street Records)
Devon Kay & The Solution — Grieving Expectation (Pure Noise Records)
Erisy Watt — Eyes Like The Ocean (American Standard Time Records)
Fatherson — Normal Fears (Easy Life)
Field Works — Station (Temporary Residence)
Gerald Clayton — Bells On Sand (Blue Note Records)
Graeme James — Seasons (Nettwerk Records)
The Greyboy Allstars — Get A Job: Music from The Original Broadcast Series Soul Dream (Knowledge Room Recordings)
The Hara — We All Wear Black EP (Scuff of The Neck)
Hari Sima — Solo en Occidente (Abstrakce Records)
Horojo Trio — Set The Record (obsessionrecords)
Jon Spencer & The HITmakers — Spencer Gets It Lit! (In the Red Records)
Karima Walker — Demos EP (Keeled Scales)
Lights — PƎP (Fueled By Ramen)
Luaka Bop — I Just Want To Be A Good Man (Luaka Bop)
Melissa Manchester — Live ’77 (Real Gone Music)
Meshuggah — Immutable (Atomic Fire)
Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway — Crooked Tree (Nonesuch Records)
Nakaya — Fire Becomes Me EP (Better Company)
Night Palace — Diving Rings (Park the Van Records)
No Frills — Downward Dog (Big Soup)
Paul Cauthen — Country Coming Down (Velvet Rose Records)
Pillow Queens — Leave The Light On (Royal Mountain Records)
Plastikman & Chilly Gonzales — Consumed In Key (Turbo Recordings)
Anybody who thought the vinyl resurgence was just a fad was mistaken: The industry has experienced a legitimate revival. As a result, music fans are interested in physical media in ways they may not have if the decades-old medium hasn’t made a comeback. That doesn’t mean everybody is listening to just their parents’ old music, though. That’s part of it, sure, thanks to rereleases that present classic albums in new ways. A vital part of the renewed vinyl wave, though, is new projects being released as records, of which there are plenty.
Whatever you might be into, each month brings a new slew of vinyl releases that has something for everybody. Some stand out above the rest, naturally, so check out some of our favorite vinyl releases of March below.
Summer Walker — Still Over It
LVRN/Interscope Records
Summer Walker’s latest, Still Over It, was a No. 1 album, and now you can own it as a literal album, i.e. a vinyl record. You have options, too: Aside from the classic black pressing, there’s also a stunning gold edition available.
PJ Harvey — The Hope Six Demolition Project and The Hope Six Demolition Project – Demos
UMe/Island
The Hope Six Demolition Project was one of the more interesting recording projects of recent years, as recording sessions were open to the public as part of an art installation. On top of the base album now being available on vinyl, The Hope Six Demolition Project – Demos is also available, pulling the curtain back even further on an album that didn’t have much curtain to begin with.
Get The Hope Six Demolition Projecthere. Get The Hope Six Demolition Project – Demoshere.
Aaliyah — Aaliyah (Vinyl Me, Please Reissue)
Vinyl Me, Please
A posthumous album from Aaliyah came out earlier this year, but if you’re looking to get back to the basics, Vinyl Me, Please has a first-ever pressing of her self-titled album. This edition is 2-LP Red & Gold Galaxy colored vinyl that was half-speed remastered, meaning this ought to be the best this iconic artist has ever sounded on a turntable.
Lil Uzi Vert — Lil Uzi Vert Vs. The World (Vinyl Me, Please Reissue)
Vinyl Me, Please
It’s a great month over at Vinyl Me, Please, as they’re also currently offering a rerelease of Lil Uzi Vert Vs. The World. VMP always nails their vinyl colors and they’ve done so again here, as this one is pressed on gorgeous 180g Neon Green vinyl.
Karen Dalton — In My Own Time (50th Anniversary Reissue)
Light In The Attic
Karen Dalton’s In My Own Time is one of the most beloved albums of the ’70s, and for those who adore it, this new 50th anniversary takes things to a new level. This version expands on a 2006 reissue of the album, as it includes a newly remastered version of the record, including alternate takes from album sessions and a replica playbill from The Montreux Golden Rose Pop Festival, six live Dalton performances from which are included in this set.
Bon Iver, Bon Iver is one of the most iconic albums of its era, and now that it’s a decade old, Bon Iver has given it a rerelease. The art of the vinyl edition is subtle in photos but surely striking in person, as it’s a stark white embossed version of the original art. Phoebe Bridgers also wrote a touching essay for the reissue, so here’s a chance to own a physical copy of that.
Before Brian Eno was a production and ambient music icon, he enjoyed success as part of Roxy Music. He was with the band for their first two albums, Roxy Music and For Your Pleasure, and now those two LPs have gotten new remastered editions. For Your Pleasure is one for movie fans, too, as here’s something you may not have known: Dame Judi Dench actually offers some spoken word on that album’s title track.
Nicholas Britell — Moonlight: The Celebration (Deluxe 5 Year Anniversary Box Set)
A24
It’s been five years since Moonlight and now Nicholas Britell’s soundtrack is getting an expansive new rerelease. There’s a lot going on in this 8-pound set, including 11 previously unreleased tracks, 100+ pages of photography, handwritten sheet music, and more.
After her recent work leaned experimental, Charli XCX decided to go full-blown pop on her latest album, Crash, and the infinitely catchy results speak for themselves. Now, Urban Outfitters has an exclusive vinyl release of the album, pressed on nice, clean white vinyl.
Mac Miller’s music has continued to be celebrated since his death, the latest such example being the new 10th-anniversary edition of Macadelic. This one comes with an embossed cover, 3-color red-black-white LPs, and an 11×17 poster. Furthermore, part of the proceeds from this release will benefit The Mac Miller Fund.
Keith Richards — Main Offender (30th Anniversary Edition)
BMG
Keith Richards is of course best known for his work with the Rolling Stones, but he has a nice little library of solo albums, too. Now, his second one, 1992’s Main Offender, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a huge new box set version of the album is out now and it has just about everything a fan of the LP could want: Previously unreleased live performances, reproduction promo and tour materials, and an 88-page book featuring photos and so much more.
