The Best Albums of 2023
It’s a perfect list; argue with yourself because we’ll happily ignore it if you’re made that your favorite album didn’t make it.
As the year draws to a close, our team at Shatter the Standards has curated an exclusive compilation of the 50 best albums that defined the soundscape from December 12, 2022, through December 1, 2023. This selection is not just any list—it’s a reflection of a year’s worth of music that stood out for its innovation, storytelling, and beats that kept us nodding.
Before you dive into this musical collection, there are a few ground rules we followed in our selection process:
Firstly, we’ve set precise dates for eligibility—only albums released within the specified timeframe made it onto our radar for consideration.
Secondly, we have excluded any project designated as an “EP” by artists or their record labels. Our focus was strictly on full-length albums to ensure a level playing field.
Thirdly, it’s essential to recognize that our dedicated staff team meticulously chose the albums presented here. We encourage robust discussion and debate but ask that any disappointment or disagreement be channeled into discovering new music rather than filling our inboxes with fiery correspondence.
Fourthly, while rumors might swirl about financial incentives swaying our choices, rest assured that our selections are unbiased. Although, should any artist wish to discuss partnerships, our door is always open.
Lastly, this compilation is distinctly ours—a tapestry woven from diverse musical threads that may not mirror your personal favorites. We don’t expect unanimous approval; what we do hope for is to spark curiosity and perhaps introduce you to exceptional albums that slipped under your radar over the past year.
With these guidelines in place, we invite you to explore the vibrant landscape of this year’s most compelling hip-hop and R&B offerings. Wishing you a melodious holiday season—may it be filled with fresh tunes and undiscovered gems.
NO THANK YOU — Little Simz
The dynamic pairing of Little Simz and producer Inflo has once again yielded a compelling work with the release of NO THANK YOU. This project comes out shortly after her celebrated Mercury Prize-winning album, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, marking a period of prolific creativity for the London rapper. While maintaining a similar level of meticulous craft as its predecessor, this new offering unfolds on a somewhat more intimate scale. The chemistry between artist and producer, notable across their three consecutive collaborations, continues to flourish here. The result is an album that not only follows up on the success of Introvert but also asserts its distinct character. The fact that Little Simz could present such a nuanced body of work so swiftly after a defining moment in her career underscores her dedication and creative vigor. — Brandon O’Sullivan
The Mind of a Saint — Skyzoo & The Other Guys
The Mind of a Saint is a concept album that takes the perspective of Franklin Saint, the lead character in the FX drama Snowfall. It reflects attitudes of the 80s, Saint’s will to survive, and personal growth through daily interactions with those in and outside the family. Thanks to the fantastic production by The Other People that incorporates elements of golden age hip-hop and boom bap, creating an alluring cohesion of music. Skyzoo keeps the album’s narrative in constant motion and never breaks character. The experience of listening to the album may differ for those who have or haven’t watched Snowfall. However, the album replicates a story of a young hustler growing to become a kingpin. — Phil
To What End — Oddisee
Oddisee continues to blur the lines between poet and prophet on To What End, offering listeners a deep dive into contemporary social issues. His introspective lyrics are matched by his self-produced beats, which blend organic instrumentation with hip-hop sensibility. This body of work stands as a cohesive examination of purpose and perseverance. Oddisee’s dual role as lyricist and composer shines throughout, showcasing his multifaceted talent. — Harry Brown
He Left Nothing for the Swim Back — Skech185 & Jeff Markey
Skech185’s sharp commentary paired with Jeff Markey’s experimental soundscapes on Backwoodz to create a compelling narrative throughout He Left Nothing for the Swim Back. The album confronts themes of identity and struggle with unapologetic honesty. Its raw energy is palpable, providing a platform for Skech185’s potent verses. Markey’s production choices underscore the urgency in Skech185’s voice, crafting an immersive experience. — Harry Brown
Girl in the Half Pearl — Liv.e
Girl in the Half Pearl is an open wound brought to the forefront, allowing Liv.e’s vibrant magic to shine brighter than ever. The album is intensely intimate, occupying the cobwebbed corners of Liv.e’s psyche. Excavating and exorcising these feelings proves both essential to healing and deeply unsettling. With production from Mndsgn and other collaborators, familiarity occasionally surfaces but never settles, undercut by shadowy textures that disrupt serenity. This maze of genres and feelings angles away from easy resolution. Each of the 17 songs rewards deep exploration to find its heart. Yet even in the most explosive moments, the self-love and understanding Liv.e uncovers radiates beauty. — Jamila W.
My 21st Century Blues — RAYE
My 21st Century Blues by RAYE is a vindicating triumph for the artist after severing ties with her previous label. The album’s big single “Escapism” topped the U.K. pop chart, marking her most tremendous commercial success. The album has a mixtape-like quality with abrupt changes in production style and subjects, reflecting RAYE’s creativity and the clearing of a backlog of songs, tackling industry woes and survivorship, with tracks like “Hard Out Here” addressing privilege and “Ice Cream Man” recounting a chilling incident with a sexual predator. RAYE’s personal touch makes the songs convincing and resonates with her audience. — Murffey Zavier
Raven — Kelela
Whereas her seminal debut Take Me Apart intimately charted the downward slope of a relationship’s demise, Kelela’s evolutionary follow-up Raven finds the avant-soul siren transforming emotional upheaval into meditative insight. While romantic desire continues through the album’s fluctuations, Kelela surveys the ebbs and flows from a more measured third-person view, an observer bearing witness to her quiet metamorphosis.
Departing from the icy deconstructions of her past, Raven’s production favors more diffuse, ambient, and club-ready hybrids that seamlessly react and recede. She has cemented her independence amidst longstanding bonds, no longer defined by the fickle pangs of partners past or present. Raven finds her communicating hard-won lessons through a singular creative vision realized, with their heart firmly on their sleeve but now given space to heal. — Imani Raven
The Rebirth of Marvin Gaye — October London
Hailing from South Bend, Indiana, artist October London is part of a musically inclined lineage, yet never aspired to be a vocalist during childhood. Nonetheless, his natural soulful timbre refused to be suppressed. With his latest album, he delves into the intricacies of human connections and contemporary challenges, honoring the legendary figures of classic R&B, especially Marvin Gaye. This record masterfully revitalizes the essence of Motown’s twilight and soul music’s inception through contemporary perspectives and the intense emotionality of October’s vocals, highlighting his artistic evolution and adeptness at fusing time-honored R&B with current nuances. — Phil
Even God Has a Sense of Humor — Maxo
Maxo delivers a project steeped in personal reflection and growth with his only Def Jam debut, Even God Has a Sense of Humor. His storytelling ability is at its peak here, weaving tales that are intimate and universal. The album’s production complements Maxo’s lyrical depth with understated elegance. It showcases his capacity to find humor amidst life’s complexities, presenting a nuanced take on modern life. — Harry Brown
Red Moon In Venus — Kali Uchis
On her transportive third album, Red Moon in Venus, Colombian-American songstress Kali Uchis explores love’s fallout amidst emotional turmoil. Since initially conceiving the project in 2018, her creative vision has crystallized into a gorgeous sonic tapestry blending atmospheric neo-soul textures with gossamer pop flourishes. Expertly attuned to the nuances of human connection, Kali curates a sultry escape centered on romance in all its varied splendors, not solely limited to the romantic sphere. With meticulous detail and unflinching self-examination, Red Moon in Venus provides a healing embodiment of the forlorn inner spirit left bruised but not broken by the fickleness of affection. Kali Uchis proves herself an empathetic and reliable guide through the intricate maze of longing and liberation. — Murffey Zavier
Masego — Masego
With his latest self-titled effort, the prodigious Masego once again affirms his Midas touch by seamlessly fusing genres into his inimitable style. Opting to showcase the full breadth of his gifts alone without any featured guests, Masego eagerly commands center stage to finally bask in his roses. Through layered hooks, radiant harmonies, eclectic instruments, and samples, he infuses the project with boundless creative energy that radiates artistic growth and purpose.
While his past works crafted a signature sound marrying steady bass lines with unpredictable instrumental loops, here, this album approaches sampling with a renewed verve to forge new sonic terrain. He infuses stale tropes in trap and R&B with much-needed inspiration, breathing life into repetitive flows, ubiquitous themes, and generic tracks that too often dilute the genres. If this represents a glimpse of his creative prime, expect his trademark magic to continue ascending to further heights. — Brandon O’Sullivan
Victims & Villains — Musiq Soulchild & Hit-Boy
What started as an informal experiment unexpectedly blossomed into Musiq Soulchild’s first full-length LP in years. After acclaimed beatsmith Hit-Boy passed along a bundle of instrumentals, Soulchild tapped into his creative chemistry with long-time writing partner A-Lex Lloyd and began trial and error jam sessions soon yielded inspiration, compelling the iconic R&B philosopher to craft his profound tenth testimony, Victims & Villains, his first release since the Grammy-nominated Feel the Real. From tentative origins to fully formed fruition, Victims & Villains is that rare gem born of happenstance, resonant proof that Soulchild’s well of wisdom and vulnerability still runs deep. — Nehemiah
Praise a Lord Who Chews but Which Does Not Consume; (Or Simply, Hot Between Worlds) — Yves Tumor
Yves Tumor’s creativity is showcased in Praise a Lord through vivid textures and the incorporation of psychedelic and hallucinatory elements. The songs tackle self-doubt, the artificiality of celebrity, faith, and love with melodies and hooks that are both catchy and complex, combining elements of pop, rock, noise, electronic, and R&B while exploring sensuality, spirituality, and subverting conventional genres. The album maintains a consistent flow, and Tumor’s maximalism is revisited in certain tracks, providing striking moments. — Imani Raven
Mélusine — Cécile McLorin Salvant
Mélusine is a work of art that resonates with the theme of a shape-shifting woman from European legend. This album draws inspiration from the mythological figure of Mélusine, a creature described by Jean d’Arras in the 14th century as a being of dual nature, both serpent and woman. Her narrative of righteous indignation is given new depth and complexity through Salvant’s sophisticated musical interpretations. The album showcases Salvant’s expansion into a more exploratory and intimate facet of her musical expression.
This is a progression from the previous year’s Ghost Song, where she juxtaposed her evocative compositions with an eclectic mix of covers, including pieces by Kate Bush and Sting. Mélusine represents a culmination of this artistic evolution, with its focal point being the titular track conceived during the Ghost Song sessions, marking it as a meticulously crafted work. Numerous Grammy Awards and acclaim back Salvant’s reputation as a celebrated artist for her crisp and energetic jazz performances and her infusion of French chanson into her albums.
With Mélusine, she reaches beyond these achievements, breathing life into the ancient tale with her dynamic and versatile musicality, allowing the album to stand as a collection of songs and a contemporary retelling of Mélusine’s story. — Brandon O’Sullivan
SCARING THE HOES — JPEGMAFIA & Danny Brown
JPEGMAFIA and Danny Brown come together on SCARING THE HOES to disrupt the status quo with their audacious styles. Their chemistry creates an electrifying atmosphere that defies conventional genre labels. Both artists bring their unique energy to the table, resulting in an unpredictable yet cohesive project. This joint effort thrives on its ability to challenge and provoke, solidifying their positions as innovators. — Murffey Zavier
Ways of Knowing — Navy Blue
Navy Blue offers an introspective journey through his psyche with Ways of Knowing. His contemplative verses explore existential themes over lo-fi beats, with gospel and lover’s rock samples provided by Budgie that evoke a sense of calm introspection. The album serves as a conduit for healing, with Navy Blue’s candidness guiding the way. It stands out for its meditative quality, inviting listeners to partake in its tranquil yet profound exploration. — Harry Brown
Abolished Uncertainties — Jae Skeese
Drumwork artist Jae Skeese is gaining recognition, with a notable feature on Conway the Machine’s track, “Crack in the Nineties.” His standout verse caught attention, as did his mixtapes, Revolver Ocelot and Authenticity Check, exhibiting his unique blend of wordplay, personal narratives, and pop culture references. Following his collaborative album with Conway the Machine, Pain Provided Profit, Skeese released his album, Abolished Uncertainties, a compelling 14-track insight into his experiences and perspectives. This album explores diverse themes, from fatherhood to his rapid rise in the hip-hop scene. It showcases Skeese’s lyrical prowess, with only a few features from artists like Philly legend Freeway and Conway the Machine, enhancing the project’s quality. Despite being relatively new to the mainstream scene, Abolished Uncertainties reveals Skeese’s maturity and precision as a lyricist. — Brandon O’Sullivan
Brand New Life — Brandee Younger
With her seventh album, Brand New Life, jazz harpist Brandee Younger continues to explore captivating new textures on her unique instrument. Harp’s rarity in jazz circles evokes comparison to legendary innovators Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane. Younger honors their influence while firmly establishing her contemporary sound across the new release. Younger’s virtuosic technique combines spiraling, melodic lines with lush multi-note swells. Though steeped in sophisticated post-bop, she draws equally from classical, funk, and R&B traditions.
Most overtly, she builds on the groundbreaking fusion of Ashby’s classics like Afro-Harping. Juxtaposing Younger’s crystalline harp tones with skittering drums, velvety bass, strings, marimba, and flute, Brand New Life creates an alluring clash of old and new. While containing traces of classic soul-jazz, Younger’s bold music insistently pushes the genre forward. Her conceptual approach is too progressively singular ever to feel retrospective. Brand New Life highlights the harp’s timeless allure through Brandee Younger’s definitive 21st-century lens. — Reginald Marcel
Glorious Game — El Michels Affair & Black Thought
El Michels Affair joins forces with Black Thought on Glorious Game, delivering an album that blurs the lines between soulful instrumentation and sharp lyricism. Black Thought’s verses are delivered with precision, each word carefully chosen to enhance the rich musical landscape crafted by El Michels Affair. The collaboration yields a sound that is at once classic and contemporary, paying homage to the roots of hip-hop while forging new ground. This project stands out for its cohesiveness, where the fusion of band and emcee creates a compelling dialogue throughout. — Harry Brown
Why Does the Earth Give Us People to Love? — Kara Jackson
Kara Jackson’s debut album, Why Does the Earth Give Us People to Love? is described as a brutally honest exploration of agony and adoration. The album dives into the concept that love and suffering often coincide, pushing this existential question into a harsh, disorienting musical landscape that argues love is synonymous with loss. Her storytelling is applauded for its earnest lyricism, arresting imagery, and effective use of her wide vocal range to convey emotion. As a guitarist, her instrument is not an appendage to her words but rather the skin that holds her music together, cradling her lyrics and maintaining the reflective undertones of her songs. Despite its anatomy of love and loss, she affirms her self-worth and clarifies that she will not lose herself, no matter the cost of love. — Brandon O’Sullivan
That! Feels Good! — Jessie Ware
British artist Jessie Ware, known for her singing, authorship, podcasting, and children's fashion ventures, has released her fifth album, That! Feels Good! after studying queer history and gaining inspiration from disco, a genre symbolic of excess and liberation. The album, co-produced by Stuart Price and James Ford, and co-written by Shungudzo Kuyimba and Sarah Hudson, effectively revives the disco genre without sounding stale, a credit to Ware’s robust vocals and the infectious joy she radiates on each track. Ware argues that dancing and love are crucial to liberation. Her previous 2020 album, What’s Your Pleasure, initiated a disco revival in pop music with its arpeggiated synths and dancefloor grooves. That! Feels Good! is more unrefined, capturing the atmosphere of early 1970s underground New York disco clubs. Backed by the funk/Afrobeat band Kokoroko, Ware’s soulful vocals land within the influences of Donna Summer and Teena Marie, painting her as a glamorous guide leading us into dimly lit clubs. — Charlotte Rochel
Maps — billy woods & Kenny Segal
In Maps, billy woods and Kenny Segal present a thought-provoking collection that delves into abstract concepts with clarity and depth about touring life. woods’ dense lyricism offers layers of meaning that reward repeated listening, while Segal’s production provides a subtle yet complex canvas for the words to play out. The album’s structure offers an auditory expedition through uncharted territories of expression. It is woods’ contemplative approach paired with Segal’s understated beats that makes Maps one of the best releases. — Brandon O’Sullivan
Soul,PRESENT — Q
Amid a resurgence of funk-infused rhythms and soulful melodies, Q’s debut album Soul,PRESENT, is revealed as an auditory oasis. The record channels the spirits of iconic figures such as Prince and Rick James while simultaneously echoing the contemporary butter-funk sounds of artists like Brandon and Planet Giza. This fusion positions Q on a redemptive path through the rich landscape of soul music. The album itself is a smooth blend of mellow vibes and groove-laden tracks that envelop listeners much like quicksand—subtly drawing them into its depth. “INCAPABLE HEART,” with its pulsating synth lines, showcases Q’s ability to weave complex electronic elements with raw emotion. Meanwhile, “UNDERSTAND” delivers snare hits reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s era, highlighting Q’s skill in crafting nostalgic yet fresh soundscapes. — Phil
Wait Til Get Over — Durand Jones
On his intimately revelatory solo debut, Wait Til I Get Over, Durand Jones daringly deviates from the funk-soul strut of his acclaimed Indications ensemble to unveil a more introspective and spiritually influenced sonic alter ego. Liberated from expectations of his signature sound, Jones embraces his adventurous muse, showcasing his remarkable range as curator and frontman over the album’s starkly gorgeous canvas. From smoldering quiet storm confessionals to arresting stylistic pivots, Wait Til I Get Over offers a comprehensive experience of Jones as not just a formidable frontman but a creative auteur fluently speaking new musical languages. From its first unaccompanied notes, this is an artist’s work unbound. — Brandon O’Sullivan
DIAMONDS & FREAKS — BLK ODYSSY
At the heart of BLK ODYSSY’s latest work, DIAMONDS & FREAKS, lies an intricate narrative that unfolds like chapters in a vividly crafted tale of romance and desire. The album follows on the heels of their 2021 release, BLK VINTAGE, which heralded the beginning of what felt like a cultural uprising. Now, they pivot to explore the nuanced dynamics of intimacy with a project that can be likened to an evocative love story. This concept album is segmented into four distinct parts, each one exploring different facets of affection and passion. It captures moments of intense allure, yet it also portrays the complexities of emotional distance, painting pictures of partners who find themselves metaphorically separated by more than just physical space. — Brandon O’Sullivan
Fountain Baby — Amaarae
The Ghanaian American singer’s second album, Fountain Baby, is a confident and unconventional approach, with various sounds from violins, cellos, a Japanese koto, ethereal harps, West African dunun, and kora, steel pan drums, and an authoritative horn section. Amaarae’s voice is luxurious, and her music is lavish. The album explores themes of desire, wealth, and the consequences of both, with a sense of awareness that sets Amaarae apart from her pop contemporaries. Despite the looming anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Ghana, Amaarae’s music remains a bold vision of sex, danger, and the complicated life of a baller. — Jamila W.
The Omnichord Real Book — Meshell Ndegeocello
The Omnichord Real Book marks Meshell Ndegeocello’s creative return to composing original music after nearly a decade focused on covers and interpretations. Her first collection of new original songs since 2012’s Comet, Come to Me, this album also inaugurates the innovative musician’s role as a Blue Note bandleader. Ndegeocello’s fruitful association with the legendary jazz label began in supporting parts on albums by Robert Glasper, Jason Moran, and Marcus Strickland. Now at the helm, she integrates her singular style into Blue Note’s continuing evolution.
Conceptually, The Omnichord Real Bookk subverts its title. Rather than interpreting jazz standards, these are freshly penned compositions. The name references the ‘80s electronic instrument and her father’s gift of a published tome transcribing genre classics. While rediscovering this volume after her parents’ passing, Ndegeocello felt inspired to create her own “real book” of original music. Merging her avant-garde spirit with Blue Note’s rich legacy, The Omnichord Real Book finds Ndegeocello reimmersed in her creative wellspring. Just as the instrument in the title synthesizes multiple musical lineages, these new songs incorporate diverse influences into a boldly singular blend. The album’s release provides a welcome opportunity to revisit this icon’s ever-evolving artistry. — Phil
MICHAEL — Killer Mike
After his run with El-P as Run The Jewels for the better part of the 2010s and 2020, Killer Mike makes a momentous return with the autobiographical album MICHAEL, reaffirming his stature in hip-hop. Rather than pursuing commercial success, this work underscores his committed artistry, offering an intimate portrayal of his journey as he oscillates between vulnerability and fragility. The album delves into his Southern roots, drawing from gospel, blues, and Atlanta’s dynamic aura. — Reginald Marcel
Decay — Fatboi Sharif & Steel Tipped Dove
Decay brings together the distinctive talents of New Jersey rapper Fatboi Sharif and New York producer Steel Tipped Dove, crafting an auditory landscape that mirrors a world in perpetual disintegration. The tracks vary in texture and tempo—some simmer with the intensity of molten lava making its way to the surface, while others move with an uneven gait, navigating through a terrain shaped by sharp-edged samples. At the heart of this album is Sharif, whose wordplay acts as a cohesive force amidst the chaos. His approach to lyricism leans towards the abstract, yet his execution remains strikingly precise, ensuring each verse cuts through with remarkable clarity. As the beats crafted by Dove relentlessly push on, they create a backdrop that both challenges and complements Sharif’s vocal delivery. — Harry Brown
Sundial — Noname
Noname has emerged as one of Chicago’s most compelling musical voices. Her mixtape Telefone in 2016 and the subsequent album Room 25 two years later were met with critical acclaim. Known for her reflective lyrics and smooth delivery, has contemplated stepping away from music on several occasions. However, fans welcomed her return in 2023 with the release of Sundial. This latest offering diverges in tone from her earlier projects; it carries a more biting edge while continuing to deliver poignant and thought-stimulating verses. Noname’s expertise as an emcee is evident, showcasing her growth and unwavering command over her craft. — Jamila W.
Electric Dusk — Leon Thomas
During his rise, Leon Thomas signed a solo deal with Ty Dolla $ign’s Motown-affiliated EZMNY label, where he made his official album debut with Electric Dusk. Unlike Thomas’s previous eclectic solo work, this album offers a focused exploration of hazy, narcotized progressive R&B. Most songs cultivate a spaced, atmospheric quality rather than straightforward musical narration. The distilled musical approach allows Thomas’ complete artistry to shine through. With velvety vocals and deft songcraft, he charts a unique course between the soulful sensibilities of the adventurous aesthetic of Frank Ocean. Shedding his early showbiz associations, Thomas asserts his creative vision through the album’s blurred atmospherics and smoothed-out textures, completing his artistic metamorphosis. — Reginald Marcel
JAGUAR II — Victoria Monét
The debut release from Victoria Monét, JAGUAR II, arrives with the subtlety of a jaguar on the prowl—effortless yet commanding attention. The production is seamless and sophisticated, much like checking into an upscale establishment where every detail has been carefully curated for an immersive experience. This collection of songs showcases Monét’s ability to craft music that feels both timeless and seductive. Monét’s performance throughout the album exemplifies her polished artistry, effortlessly blending fantasy with raw emotion in her lyrics. Even when she ventures into more provocative territory, there’s a layer of elegance reminiscent of a dress that teases the line between revealing and refined. With each track smoothly transitioning into the next, JAGUAR II is designed for continuous play, creating a cohesive auditory journey.
This record stands out as Monét’s most accomplished work to date. It features rich arrangements, complete with live instruments such as trumpets and violins—a luxury not commonly found outside of concert halls. She navigates through these sounds with grace and precision, delivering even the most intricate lines with ease. There’s an undercurrent of empowerment throughout JAGUAR II, offering audiences more than just auditory pleasure—it hints at a deeper aspiration for transcendence and personal greatness. Monét strikes a balance between contemporary pop-soul and something far more profound, touching upon an emotional uplift that suggests we are destined for greater heights. — Phil
God Be Praised — Mali Music
A seasoned voice in contemporary gospel and R&B, Mali Music has been feeding his fans with his thought-provoking lyrics and hypnotic melodies for nearly a decade and a half. The GRAMMY-winning artist brings a fresh introspection to his latest offering, God Be Praised, which invites us on an explorative narrative through faith and self-discovery. With this album, Mali continues to build upon his exceptional catalog of music that not only uplifts but also challenges them to reflect on their spiritual journey. As a singer, songwriter, musician, and producer, Mali Music’s evolution is evident and inspiring. With each release, he showcases his ability to resonate deeply with his audience while maintaining his signature sound that effortlessly blends elements of soulful gospel with modern R&B undertones. — Brandon O’Sullivan
Black Classical Music — Yussef Dayes
Yussef Dayes has crafted an eclectic and profound approach to music. His drummer, composer, and producer work is marked by integrating various musical genres, incorporating electronic vibes, the groove of funk, the depth of soul, the rhythm of Afrobeat, and the relaxed pace of reggae. Dayes has shaped a rich musical foundation through his work with notable talents such as Yussef Kamaal, Ruby Rushton, Emanative, and Alfa Mist.
This diverse foundation is the cornerstone upon which his first studio album, Black Classical Music, is built. The album unfolds over 19 tracks, marking the apex of Dayes’ creative output. He aims to offer an audibly coherent experience, skillfully guiding the listener through various musical environments. It’s ambitious in its imaginative scope, yet it achieves a narrative that is meticulously detailed and richly faceted, reflecting personal, cultural, and societal layers.
The transitions are seamless throughout the record, moving from one mood to another and showcasing a broad palette of stylistic nuances and auditory landscapes. What makes the album particularly noteworthy is its combination of complexity and approachability. It steers clear of any pretension, remaining grounded and relatable despite its elaborate artfulness. It embodies Dayes’ artistic expression that captures a universal and intimate narrative. — Brandon O’Sullivan
Sardines — Apollo Brown & Planet Asia
The dynamic duo of Apollo Brown and Planet Asia, known for their potent chemistry on the 2017 release Anchovies, have once again joined forces to deliver Sardines. This latest collaboration is characterized by its understated yet impactful approach to hip-hop, showcasing both artists’ dedication to the craft. This LP distinguishes itself as an exhibition of restrained excellence in the genre. The album unfolds over 45 minutes, inviting listeners into a world where every beat and bar counts. Renowned for his ability to lay down soul-infused basslines, Apollo Brown creates a backdrop that perfectly complements Planet Asia’s incisive wordplay. The chemistry between the two is palpable throughout the album as they navigate through tracks that pay homage to classic hip-hop aesthetics while steering clear of redundancy or predictability. — Nehemiah
Magic 3 — Nas
Nas has experienced what many are calling a revival of his artistic influence. Once celebrated for producing an album that remains a cornerstone in the cultural lexicon, the Queensbridge native found his more recent efforts falling short of expectations. However, this trajectory took a sharp upward swing when he began collaborating with Hit-Boy. This partnership sparked an electrifying series of successes, culminating in their last project together, Magic 3. With each song, the project reaches new heights (especially the album’s second half); it invites introspection into their partnership while also leaving Nas fans eager for what may come next. — Phil
Black Rainbows — Corinne Bailey Rae
Black Rainbows delves deeply into themes of abuse, indignity, and historical wrongs, particularly in the track “Erasure.” This song features intense and raw elements, with Corinne Bailey Rae’s powerful vocals set against a backdrop of barbed-wire guitar lines and a forceful rhythm. The album marks a departure from the more radio-friendly structures and R&B-adjacent sounds of her previous work, showing Rae’s comfort in exploring her experimental side. Co-produced with her husband, Steve Brown, Black Rainbows features tracks like “Earthlings” and “Put It Down,” which showcase a dynamic range of emotions and musical styles, from mechanical synth beats to slasher-flick violin swipes and club-adjacent beats. — Jamila W.
SUNDAY DINNER — Nick Grant
In the latest LP offering, SUNDAY DINNER, Nick Grant invites us to a sumptuous spread of musicality and storytelling. Hailing from South Carolina, Grant infuses his hip-hop with a rich soulfulness that permeates the entirety of this 16-track collection. From the gripping tales spun in “WORRYIN’ BOUT A CLASSIC” to the uplifting vibes of “KNOW YOUR WORTH/GRANDMA SAID,” each song delivers its unique flavor. Each song on SUNDAY DINNER is carefully crafted, much like a well-prepared dish, imbued with the spice of life stories and the tenderness of sincerity. — Brandon O’Sullivan
Gold — Cleo Sol
Two weeks after dropping her third album, Heaven, Cleo Sol offers her fourth LP, Gold—an unconventional move defying the music industry’s “write-release-tour” model. The rapid release appears driven by artistic impulse rather than external pressure. As part of SAULT, Sol and her partner Inflo released five albums in 2022, flouting expectations. Their output seems guided by serving the music rather than industry demands. Freed from relying on record labels, perhaps Sol and Inflo exist in a bubble where they own their work. Gold acts as a soothing balm, with its peaceful music blending seamlessly with the uplifting lyrics. Building on Heaven’s aesthetic, the arrangements remain understated. Gentle yet evocative combinations allow Sol’s voice to radiate. She offers faith, hope, and the promise of brighter days, scarce comforts nowadays.
This latest work further affirms the creative bond fueling Sol’s output. The musical relationship at her core retains its golden luster. Through measured minimalism and uplifting themes, Gold provides a peaceful sanctuary. Sol’s voice shines with purpose, delivering an enlightened vision. The album flows as a unified offering, a healing respite for the spirit. This musical pairing continues to yield dividends. With clarity and meaning, Sol articulates faith in better times ahead. Gold polishes her vision to a luminous sheen. The duo’s creative chemistry perseveres, its radiance undimmed. By pairing inspired restraint with hopeful themes, the album soothes and restores in tumultuous times. — Brandon O’Sullivan
The R&B You Love — Kenyon Dixon
On his aptly titled time capsule, The R&B You Love, Grammy nominee Kenyon Dixon conjures the heyday vibes of late ’90s/early ’00s soul while staking his claim in the genre’s modern renaissance. From the opening chords of “In Your Head,” Dixon’s 17-track opus instantly transports listeners to a beloved bygone era when slow-burning grooves defined R&B’s quality-over-quantity approach. Like many curators as auteurs, Dixon expertly resurrects that signature texture throughout, bathing songs in nostalgia while inserting his singular artistry into the throwback sounds via dreamlike melodies. Standout tracks like the buoyant “Good Love” and the RL-assisted “2000s R&B” anchor the album with production and songcraft that tampers with a trusted formula only to faithfully spotlight it. Welcoming guests like Cozz and Alex Isley along the ride, Dixon keeps ears hooked with earworm songcraft that blurs lines between past homage and present participation. The R&B You Love finds him simultaneously spotlighting and contributing to the sacred legacy he celebrates. — Nehemiah
We Buy Diabetic Test Strips — Armand Hammer
At the core of Armand Hammer’s latest venture with Fat Possum Records, We Buy Diabetic Test Strips stands a fusion of creative minds. The album marks their first project outside Backwoodz Studioz and is brimming with contributions from a diverse roster of talent. Notable figures such as El-P, DJ Haram, JPEGMAFIA, Pink Siifu, and Black Noi$e lend their artistry alongside a cadre of live musicians who convened for the first time during the recording sessions. This album carves out its niche—tracks that are fragmented yet atmospheric, underpinned by glitchy beats that feel as though they’re disintegrating. This backdrop sets the stage for billy woods’ and ELUCID’s lyrics: complex, piercing narratives that navigate dystopian themes with an undercurrent of dark wit. — Harry Brown
Burning Desire — MIKE
The influence of MIKE has been quietly profound. His work is characterized by an ethereal production style that favors fragmented samples and off-kilter rhythms. It’s through this unique sound that he explores themes of deep emotional resonance, often touching on personal hardships. His project, Burning Desire, is a highlight within his extensive catalog. Here, MIKE’s signature cadence and approach to crafting beats are presented with a touch more accessibility than some of his previous endeavors. Yet, even with this subtle pivot toward broader appeal, the album retains the unpolished authenticity that has become synonymous with his artistry. — Brandon O’Sullivan
I Killed Your Dog — L’Rain
L’Rain’s approach to I Killed Your Dog was to create something that stands in stark contrast to experimental music that can feel detached and inaccessible. The album’s distinct tone is established early with tracks like “Our Funeral,” which combines Cheek’s rich vocals with plaintive keys and flickering synths, creating an eager lamentation over a doomed relationship. The single “Pet Rock” comments wryly on the erasure of Black people in rock music, using Strokes-style guitar melodies to underline its point. This track is particularly poignant, given Cheek’s role as the guitarist, adding layers of irony to the lyrics. Throughout the album, Taja Cheek and her team of session musicians craft an environment where humor and irony play key roles, often serving as a lens through which the album’s themes are explored. Humor, both overt and subtle, is a critical element of the album, acting as a guiding force in understanding its themes. — Charlotte Rochel
Water Made Us — Jamila Woods
With Water Made Us, Jamila Woods presents an alluring exploration of love, showcasing her growth and introspection since her last album. Woods portrays love as a dynamic force capable of mutation and expansion. In contrast to her previous work, which aimed at addressing historical injustices, this album is more personal, focusing on Woods’ own life stages and relationships. Her musical style is both curious and energetic, maintaining a lightness even as she delves into profound existential questions. Several tracks on the album, such as “Wreckage Room,” “Thermostat,” and “I Miss All My Exes,” blend candidness with a touch of humor. These songs reveal Woods’ depth as she navigates themes like trust, faith, hope, and memory, making them feel essential and attainable. — Imani Raven
Lahai — Sampha
Sampha continues to build upon his reputation following the success of his Mercury Prize-winning album, Process. Rather than resting on his laurels, he remained active in the industry, contributing his distinctive vocals to a variety of projects as both a background singer and featured artist. Lahai takes its name from Sampha’s middle name and honors his paternal grandfather. The arrival of his daughter brought about feelings of joy and wonderment, which are evident throughout the album. Despite the overall more positive tone compared to his debut, which delved into darker themes such as nightmarish visions and the loss of his mother, this one does not shy away from complexity. — Nehemiah
For All Time — Mayer Hawthorne
At the forefront of Andrew Cohen’s sixth studio effort under his Mayer Hawthorne persona, For All Time sets the stage with a theme that exudes romance. Throughout this album, listeners are treated to variations of this initial melody, which reappear as interludes—perhaps these serve not only as musical transitions but also as practical moments during live performances for Cohen to change attire or introduce novel stage elements. Hawthorne radiates with an effortless poise and revels in the fullness of romantic bliss. Cohen takes center stage as the principal musician, showcasing versatility by playing, on average, six instruments per track, ranging from fundamental instrumentation to the more esoteric glockenspiel and Mellotron. — Harry Brown
Colours — Goapele
The R&B scene has witnessed the ascent of Goapele, an artist who has carved a distinct niche for herself with her soul-stirring music, returning to the forefront with Colours. This album delves deep into her introspective side. Her music creation process reflects a commitment to authenticity. Each song in this latest work lures one into a realm where Goapele’s voice acts as a guide through emotive soundscapes. It’s a body of work that remains etched in memory long after the final notes fade, demonstrating once again why Goapele continues to be revered in the world of contemporary R&B and soul. — Phil
Integrated Tech Solutions — Aesop Rock
Aesop Rock takes a discerning and skeptical look at contemporary society in his latest project, Integrated Tech Solutions. The album unfolds as an auditory exploration into the obscure operations of a company that offers lifestyle applications powered by algorithms. His beats, largely self-crafted, oscillate between the mechanical and the pastoral, setting the stage for his examination of humanity’s errant relationship with emerging technologies. The rapper delves into historical misapplications of technology by tracing such misuse back to the dawn of civilization and continuing this narrative by chronicling a variety of compromised technological advancements throughout history. — Harry Brown
Exit Simulation — Niecy Blues
Hailing from South Carolina, the aptly dubbed Niecy Blues conjures a haunting brand of ethereal sonics that channel the transcendent qualities of ambient and gospel music. Raised in religious households in Oklahoma, Niecy cites those enveloping church atmospherics as her initial exposure to ambient textures. Now, her transportive Kranky debut, Exit Simulation, pays homage to those formative spiritual sounds while propelling her artistic vision into bold new terrain.
The guitar-driven opener “1111” instantly establishes Niecy’s ethos as siren-like synths rush in to elevate the track’s heavenly allure. “The Nite B4” gets pulled along by hypnotic arpeggios as Niecy’s multi-tracked, delayed vocals cascade like divine transmissions. One of the album’s most tense moments, the sensual, skittering “The Architect,” ultimately resolves in the gorgeous slowcore ballad “Cascade,” a sanctified release. This is a remarkable and powerful introduction to a unique new talent from its first tones. Guided by the ghosts of her spiritual upbringing but firmly focused on the journey ahead, Niecy Blues has manifested a heavenly debut for modern times. — Brandon O’Sullivan
Quaranta — Danny Brown
A few years ago, Danny Brown reached this milestone, and seeking to expose his experiences as someone in middle age, the rapper released his new album, entitled Quaranta, which means the number 40 written in full in Italian. The result of this is fantastic because, although it is not his most phenomenal record, with even the joint project with JPEGMAFIA released earlier in 2023 being much more surprising, the album features some of the best lyrics of his career and a performance by Danny glossy from start to finish.
It’s an LP that has excellent success in exploring this phase of life that Danny Brown has been going through, with introspective tracks in which he opens up to talk about his thoughts and experiences over the last 12 years, in addition to making highly formidable social comments at various times. Other than that, features such as his fantastic production and ability to rap contribute to reinforcing how he is one of the best names in the current hip-hop scene. — Phil