Wednesday Roundups #48: 18 Albums/EPs You Should Listen to In Your Spare Time
Wednesday Roundups #48: 18 Albums/EPs You Should Listen to In Your Spare Time
Stream last week’s releases from Shabaka, Apathy, DRAM, Red Hot Org & Meshell Ndegeocello, Benny Atlas, Lizz Wright, Chantae Cann, Jay Exodus, B.A.R.S. Murre, Alex Harris, and more.
Welcome back to another issue of Wednesday Roundups!
Diving into the world of music can be overwhelming with the constant influx of albums. That’s where Shatter the Standards steps in, making your musical navigation easier every Wednesday. They slice through the noise, bringing you a curated list of noteworthy new drops accessible on streaming platforms. Just last week, they spotlighted fresh beats from a diverse lineup, including Shabaka, Apathy, DRAM, Red Hot Org & Meshell Ndegeocello, Benny Atlas, Lizz Wright, Chantae Cann, B.A.R.S. Murre, Jay Exodus, Alex Harris, Nia Archives, NappyHigh, Asher Roth & Heather Grey, Ty Da Dale & V Don, Baby Rose & BADBADNOTGOOD, Jean Deaux, Tek & Stu Bangas, and Sebastian Mikael.
If you’re struggling to keep up with the ever-evolving music scene, subscribing to the Shatter the Standards newsletter is your ticket to staying in the loop. They don’t just skim the surface with mainstream hits; they dive deep, bringing hidden gems right to your inbox weekly.
In today’s rapid-fire release culture, it’s easy to miss out on some real musical gems. Shatter the Standards does the heavy lifting for you, sifting through the latest releases and handpicking the ones that make a mark. Stay ahead of the curve and discover music that steps outside the mainstream box by joining their newsletter.
Shabaka: Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace (Jazz)
A low-key and deadly wave hit, mixed with the beauty and calmness of the music, Shabaka put down his homely saxophone and brought the first full album under his name. Extending from the meditative 2022 EP Afrikan Culture, his new work Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace is a collection of profound and moving theme songs focusing on instrumental music. The listening journey is like a reflection and contemplation. The musical concepts are connected, leading to in-depth listening, and the coherent theme and tone of feedback to the listener are constantly present throughout the record. Shabaka plays flute on this album and invites essential artists such as André 3000, Lianne La Havas, Moses Sumney, and Floating Points to create this all-encompassing auditory landscape.
[Listen]
Apathy: Connecticut Casual: Chapter 2 (Hip-Hop)
Connecticut underground rapper and producer Apathy has released his ninth album and sequel, Connecticut Casual. Apathy became prominent two decades ago as a member of Demigodz and Army of the Pharaohs, founded by Open Mic and Vinnie Paz, respectively. The sequel fundamentally changed the outlook for Apathy’s entire career going forward, and “Where the River Meets the Sea” held cathartic importance for him even though he still hadn’t captured the sound he wanted to make. And the production of Playa Haze achieves this goal.
[Listen]
DRAM: DRAM&B (R&B)
DRAM is back again with his new album, DRAM&B, released independently on his label Waver Records. The 10-song album was preceded by the singles “When She Call” (featuring Ellis Quinn) and “Marry Me.” DRAM&B is filled with beautiful songs that are as warm and bright as a golden summer day. Opening with the song “Of Course,” which DRAM co-produced with eK! and Poseidon, he unapologetically declares his devotion to a lover who has been with him through his ups and downs. He continues to explore and cross styles and sensibilities, compellingly displaying his talent and creativity. Whether in beautiful melodies or soulful lyrics, DRAM conveys his unique musical perspective and emotional expression.
[Listen]
Red Hot Org & Meshell Ndegeocello: Red Hot & Ra: The Magic City (Jazz)
We follow a profound musical journey in the album Red Hot & Ra: Magic City, curated by musician Michelle Ndegeocello. Recorded with a diverse lineup that includes legendary 99-year-old saxophonist Marshall Allen and hip-hop/punk jazz singer Pink Siifu, the album goes beyond traditional covers to present new compositions inspired by Sun Ra’s philosophy. Through the collaborative efforts of multiple generations of community musicians, this project offers a new interpretation of Sun Ra’s work, avoiding clichés and presenting a brighter perspective than its predecessor, 2023 Red Hot & Ra: Magic War.
[Listen]
Benny Atlas: Better Now You Know (R&B)
Wolfgang-based talent Benny Atlas has released his debut mixtape, Better Now You Know. The singer-songwriter has long been a CLASH favorite, and his emotional shout-outs always stand out among other musicians. Benny Atlas spent considerable time building his debut mixtape, releasing singles on streaming platforms track by track, gradually growing his audience base. Weaving back and forth between dramatic passages and deeply composed songwriting, Better Now You Know, is intoxicating. This work builds an immersive world; his singing is high and sweet, and he writes about some of the most inner emotions.
[Listen]
Lizz Wright: Shadow (Jazz)
On her new album, Shadow, Lizz Wright creates a dazzling soundscape through her charismatic, smooth voice that spans jazz, blues, folk, and soul. Shadow contains five original songs and renditions of her frequently performed songs. The cascading harp notes shine with hope on the propulsive track “Your Love,” boosted by Meshell Ndegeocello’s powerful bass. The song’s vast space allows the singer to navigate grief and loss, from sleepy mourning periods to joyful dance and celebration moments. The hymn-like “Root of Mercy” showcases Wright’s silvery voice flowing over softly flowing layers of instrumentation.
[Listen]
Chantae Cann: Rhythm + Revelation, Vol. 1 (R&B)
Contemporary music listeners are in luck because Chantae Cann, a leader in jazz fusion with a charming voice, released her latest album, Rhythm and Revelation, Vol. 1. This album is not only a continuation of the singer’s signature style but also a culmination of the vicissitudes of life and the tireless pursuit of musical art. With their diverse exploration of rhythmic patterns, the tracks on the album promise to take listeners on a soul-touching, introspective journey, evoking deep emotional resonances. She invited many musical talents, such as Kenyon Dixon, Masego, India Shawn, and Albert Allenback, to collaborate.
[Listen]
Jay Exodus: 44 (Hip-Hop)
Jay Exodus is making waves in rap this week with the album 44. With collaborations with big names like Boldy James, 38 Spesh, Jay Worthy, Jae Skeese, and Kamaiyah, this project is poised to make waves in the hip-hop scene. Jay Exodus is the pride of Buffalo. His latest LP is becoming the new darling of the rap industry.
[Listen]
B.A.R.S. Murre: Jewelry Store Shootouts (Hip-Hop)
New Jersey rapper B.A.R.S. Murre has ended a four-year break and released his fifth studio album. More than ten years ago, he signed with Black Soprano Family Records and released his debut album, Chicken and Cake, followed by Dead Nasty, Whimsical, and Black Tanita. However, after nearly three and a half years since the release of his last album, Husky Marinara, and considering B$F’s growth as a record label in recent years, Murre is now back with Jewelry Store Shootouts. The album is even more polished, and each guest addition adds to the way the newest member of the Black Soprano Family introduces himself to a broader underground audience.
[Listen]
Alex Harris: Back to Us (Soul)
On Alex Harris’ debut album, Back to Us, he teams up with Nashville soul band the Monophonics to record an impressive mix of original songs and brilliant covers. Highlights include Otis Redding’s “I’ve Got Dreams To Remember” and Solomon Burke’s “Cry to Me,” Kevin Welch’s “Millionaire,” as well as Alex’s co-written original songs “Falling For You” and “Something’s Gotta” Change.”
[Listen]
Nia Archives: Silence Is Loud (Electronic)
Nia Archives, the London-based producer, has followed up her acclaimed 2023 EP, Sunrise Bang Ur Head Against tha Wall, with an arresting debut album, Silence Is Loud. Fueled by jungle rhythms, this experimental pop LP explores a range of themes, from the dynamics of relationships to the potency of silence, familial bonds, and the experience of loneliness. Notably, “Crowded Roomz,” an early track from the album, offers a profound examination of solitude amidst company.
[Listen]
NappyHigh: Burgundy (Hip-Hop)
NappyHigh released Burgundy, inviting famous figures like Chuck Inglish, Blu, and Mick Jenkins to collaborate. His impressive work includes collaborations with hip-hop giants such as Westside Gunn, Raekwon, and Mick Jenkins. NappyHIGH showcases his journey to shape the modern hip-hop genre through his major studio albums and critically acclaimed “color” series. His track record of working with various artists, from Conway the Machine to Curren$y, highlights his significant influence in the industry.
[Listen]
Asher Roth & Heather Grey: Temporary Heaven (Hip-Hop)
Asher Roth teams up with Heather Grey for their second collaborative LP, Temporary Heaven. The follow-up to 2022’s Why It’s So Grey? features previously-released singles, including “Temporary,” “Ash Roth!” and “Heaven,” featuring Homeboy Sandman and lojii.
[Listen]
Ty Da Dale & V Don: Banned In 9 States (Hip-Hop)
Ty Da Dale teams up with V Don with a collaborative effort, Banned In 9 States. Once you see the names, you know you’re in for a boom-bap underground sound. With nine short tracks and to the point, the features include Rome Streetz, Sauce Heist, and Babymaine.
[Listen]
Baby Rose & BADBADNOTGOOD: Slow Burn - EP (Soul)
Baby Rose released her second album, Through and Through, last year. The release of Slow Burn marked a change in her musical style, extending avant-garde R&B into a more original, prosperous, and broader American music world. When she first met BADBADNOTGOOD, it was to say hello, get to know each other, and see what this collaboration might evolve into over time. The songs on the EP were partly inspired by Rose’s experiences driving between where her family lived: the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C. and the tranquility of rural North Carolina. Rose turns up the music, lets her mind wander, and makes room for inner monologues and imaginary conversations you might not typically hear.
[Listen]
Jean Deaux: Nowhere, Fast (R&B)
Known as a genre-defying artist, Jean Deaux recently released her new EP, Nowhere, Fast, via Guin Records. The introspective eight-song project includes the previously shared “Dreams” and “Walk With Me.” The final song on the entire project, “Thoughts,” also features Destin Conrad. In music produced by Lido, they celebrate embracing the present moment with their respective lovers.
[Listen]
Tek & Stu Bangas: MVP: MotiVational Purposes - EP (Hip-Hop)
Carefully arranged by music producer Stu Bangas, this EP, in collaboration with Tek from Smif-N-Wessun, is a listening pleasure and an inspiring force. Stu Bangas’s production approach brings a royal feel, while Tek puts passion and effort into every syllable. He was uncompromising in his music and took full advantage of every opportunity, demonstrating his indomitable spirit.
[Listen]
Sebastian Mikael: Paradigm Shift - EP (R&B)
Sebastian Mikael’s latest release, Phileo, was released last year, and he follows it up with the three-track EP Paradigm Shift. The Swedish-Ethiopian singer appears more at ease than ever, marking a new stage in his music. Mikael has been on a steady musical path since his 2014 debut album Speechless, which he released with his long-time label Slip-N-Slide Records and Atlantic Records. Next, he released two parts of the I C U U C ME EP, Pt. I and Pt. II, also a collaboration between the two labels. These works showcase his growth as an artist and reflect his deep roots in music making. His latest EP, Paradigm Shift, features Mikael’s collaborations with music artists Emmavie and Theophonixx. Through these collaborations, Mikael finds new directions in sound and reaches new heights in artistic expression, even if it’s an appetizer.
[Listen]