Wednesday Roundups #19: 8 Albums/EPs You Should Listen to In Your Spare Time
Stream releases from Terrace Martin, John Carroll Kirby, Teflon, Sekou, Le$, Ragz, Illah Dayz & Bronze Nazareth, and RJ Payne & Cartune Beatz.
Welcome back to Shatter the Standards!
The nineteenth outing of Wednesday Roundups returns.
It might be challenging to prioritize your music listening when so much new music is available. Shatter the Standards provide a weekly summary of newsworthy releases on streaming platforms. Terrace Martin, John Carroll Kirby, Teflon, Sekou, Le$, Ragz, Illah Dayz & Bronze Nazareth, and RJ Payne & Cartune Beatz 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!
Terrace Martin — Fine Tunes (Jazz) [Listen]
Terrace Martin, a Grammy-nominated artist, and producer, has recently launched his latest album, Fine Tune. The project is the first of six jazz albums set to be released by Sounds of Crenshaw and BMG in partnership with Martin, who aims to develop new talent and incorporate the legacy of jazz. Fine Tune's 12 tracks showcase Martin's exceptional musicality, featuring a stellar lineup of musicians and trusted collaborators, including Cory Henry, James Fauntleroy, Keyon Harrold, and Dinner Party contemporaries Robert Glasper and Kamasi Washington.
John Carroll Kirby — Blowout (Jazz) [Listen]
A Grammy-nominated keyboardist, composer, and producer, John Carroll Kirby, collaborated with many of today's pop stars. However, his most captivating work can be found on his albums. Two years ago, he traveled to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, to shoot an episode of his web series Kirby's Gold, where he explored the area with the Kawe Calypso Band. He composed the album while surrounded by the sounds of the oropendola's morning birdsongs, playing music with local calypso legends and admiring breathtaking sunsets. He also played Bob Marley covers and standards in bars on the sly. Kirby recorded Blowout at 64 Sound Studios in Los Angeles with a simple core band, and it's worth the listen.
Teflon — 2 Sides to Every Story (Hip-Hop) [Listen]
Brooklyn-born artist Teflon has released his highly anticipated album, 2 Sides to Every Story, marking a joyous moment for the acclaimed rapper. He made a name as part of M.O.P.'s First Family during the late '90s New York rap scene. After contractual troubles and a hiatus from the music industry, he returns to the stage more vigorously than ever. Not only that, but Teflon has teamed up with two of hip-hop's most talented producers and his closest allies, DJ Premier and Jazimoto, who split production duties equally on this project.
Sekou — Out of Mind - EP (Pop/R&B) [Listen]
Sekou is undoubtedly a young artist ahead of his time. Despite being 18 years old, he has sold out shows in seconds and amazed crowds at the Glastonbury Festival on the BBC Introducing stage. He has generated hype while giving himself artistic breathing space. The wordsmith, endorsed by Arlo Parks, is on his way to becoming a superstar. His debut project, Out of Mind, was released only last week, but he has already created a buzz. The gospel singers provide an empathetic bed for the artist's desolate lyricism on "Better Man," making the track almost biblical. Despite his desolation, the Ashby native continues to radiate positivity, calling for compassion from someone who fails to share his love.
Le$ — Bigger in Texas (Hip-Hop) [Listen]
In his latest album, Bigger in Texas, Le$ dedicates 45 minutes to introducing himself and his unique contribution to Houston hip-hop. He thoughtfully enlisted the talents of his closest associates, such as Thug, Bun B, Paul Wall, Killa Kyleon, and hip-hop podcaster Donnie Houston for guest appearances. The only non-local artist featured is Freddie Gibbs, who contributed a verse. Notably, unlike local rappers who may take their time crafting lyrics, Le$ sought out trusted friends who can deliver quality and efficiency.
Ragz Originale — BARE SUGAR (R&B/Hip-Hop) [Listen]
Ragz Originale, known for his previous work with Skepta and an Ivor Novello nomination, has made a name for himself with his solo releases and collaborations. On BARE SUGAR, Ragz's production creates a textured soundscape that effortlessly flows in and out of pockets with swagger. The synths, of which there are plenty, are connected in a cohesive system, each song echoing a different pulse. The album explores conflicting themes of love and lust yet coexists within the same temperament. Ragz approaches these themes with level-headedness, skillfully navigating the duality of infatuation.
Illah Dayz & Bronze Nazareth — Ponch’e (Hip-Hop) [Listen]
Illah Dayz, a renowned hip-hop artist celebrated for his insightful lyrics and distinctive sound, released his highly anticipated third studio album, Ponch’e. The album has been entirely produced by Bronze Nazareth, affiliated with Wu-Tang. Illah Dayz has already gained recognition for his critically acclaimed albums with The Illahstrator and Coby. Ponch’e showcases the artist's evolution as he explores new artistic territories. The album demonstrates Illah Dayz's talent for deeply connecting with his audience emotionally, all while maintaining his signature raw authenticity.
RJ Payne & Cartune Beatz — Jigsaw (Hip-Hop) [Listen]
RJ Payne is on a winning streak this year. He released a seven-track EP, with production by Cartune Beatz. The only downside is if you heard one project of his, you heard it all. However, if you love great lyricism backed by a haunting backdrop, then check out Jigsaw.