Wednesday Roundups #18: 8 Albums/EPs You Should Listen to In Your Spare Time
Stream releases from Killer Mike, Meshell Ndegeocello, Kiana Ledé, Kool Keith, Phabo, Chase Shakur, Ambré, and Austin Millz.
Welcome back to Shatter the Standards!
The eighteenth outing of Wednesday Roundups returns.
It might be challenging to prioritize your music listening when so much new music is available. Shatter the Standards provide a weekly summary of newsworthy releases on streaming platforms. Killer Mike, Meshell Ndegeocello, Kiana Ledé, Kool Keith, Phabo, Chase Shakur, Ambré, and Austin Millz were the artists with new albums or projects last week. Watch for weekly music drops every Wednesday for suggestions of lesser-known albums.
Here are your roundups for today!
Killer Mike — MICHAEL (Hip-Hop) [Listen]
Killer Mike's latest solo album, MICHAEL, delves into the complexities of his personal life. It’s a deeply personal record that explores his origins, serves as a therapeutic outlet, and pays homage to his hometown. Throughout the album's 54 minutes, Mike presents a nuanced depiction of himself, unafraid to express his anger yet striving to balance it with the insights he's gained from living for almost 50 years. Ultimately, the album celebrates the journey toward self-improvement, acknowledging that personal growth is ongoing.
Meshell Ndegeocello — The Omnichord Real Book (Jazz) [Listen]
Meshell Ndegeocello's latest LP, The Omnichord Real Book, departs from her 2018 album, Ventriloquism, which featured covers of R&B radio hits from the '80s and '90s. The inspiration for her latest release came from Ndegeocello's past and the artifacts left behind by her late parents, including the first "Real Book" her father gave her. The record was written by Ndegeocello alone in her attic, with the help of a gifted Omnichord, and brought to life in the studio by a talented group of improvisers, including Jeff Parker, Jason Moran, and Joel Ross.
Kiana Ledé — Grudges (R&B) [Listen]
During the current season, women in R&B are delivering exceptional performances, and Kiana Ledé is among them. The gifted vocalist has unveiled her much-awaited second album, Grudges, which marks her initial full-length release since KIKI in 2020. Ledé has joined forces with an impressive array of artists, such as Ella Mai, on the previously launched track "Jealous." Furthermore, she has also introduced solo compositions like "Irresponsible" and the recent "Deeper.”
Kool Keith — Black Elvis 2 (Hip-Hop) [Listen]
The highly anticipated sequel follow-up from Black Elvis has arrived by Kool Keith. He elevates his lyrics, tailored for the modern era, to an unprecedented level, blending urban and intergalactic soundscapes. Boasting partnerships with Marc Live, Raaddrr Van, Dynamite, Agallah, and the iconic Ice-T, this record is sure to astound.
Phabo — Don’t Get Too Cozy (R&B) [Listen]
Don’t Get Too Cozy exudes an intense emotional quality characteristic of Phabo's distinct energy. The tracks are imbued with passion, self-assurance, and a strong sense of nostalgia, which serves as a testament to the burgeoning talent of this rising R&B star. Through this collection of dreamy tracks, Phabo has skillfully demonstrated how authentic emotion and vulnerable lyricism can captivate contemporary audiences. This essential listen is a valid showcase of modern R&B.
Chase Shakur — It’s Not You It’s Me (R&B) [Listen]
As his debut on Def Jam, It's Not You, It's Me delves into the breakup's aftermath. Throughout the project, the relationship concludes, accompanied by a backdrop of shadowy R&B infused with otherworldly sonic embellishments and breathtaking vocal performances by Chase Shakur. The EP presents a captivating contemplation on life following a complex relationship, where vulnerability intertwines with hardened scars, resulting in a creation that positions Shakur as persistent and eager to learn from his shortcomings.
Ambré — who’s loving you? - EP (R&B) [Listen]
Ambré has returned with her most recent endeavor, who's loving you? under Roc Nation Records. Interestingly, this EP was released on the eve of the one-year commemoration of her previous 3000 EP. The latest project is a concise effort that comprises five tracks. Notably, the emerging artist Mack Keane features on "Elevate," a captivating melody where both vocalists expound on establishing a surreptitious connection.
Austin Millz — Breathwork - EP (Dance/Electronic) [Listen]
The debut EP titled Breathwork by Austin Millz, a DJ, and producer from Harlem, has recently been released by Ultra Records. This EP showcases exceptionally talented artists who have skillfully blended R&B with other music genres. Among these artists are Sabrina Claudio, Estelle, and Alina Baraz, each of whom has contributed their distinct talents to different tracks. For instance, Millz collaborated with Estelle on the "Freeway" track, while his captivating dance number "Breathless" features Alina Baraz. The lead single, "Inhale/Exhale," highlights Claudio's vocals. Moreover, the EP features newer guests such as Destin Conrad, Justine Skye, and Duckwrth.