Wednesday Roundups #59: 30 Albums/EPs You Should Listen to In Your Spare Time
Stream releases from Lucky Daye, Hiatus Kaiyote, Marsha Ambrosius, Previous Industries, Lupe Fiasco, Boldy James & Conductor Williams, Nao Yoshioka, Aaron Frazer, Kiah Victoria, 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 Lucky Daye, Hiatus Kaiyote, Marsha Ambrosius, Previous Industries, Lupe Fiasco, Boldy James & Conductor Williams, Nao Yoshioka, Aaron Frazer, Kiah Victoria, nodigdyl., Vinnie Paz, Lauren Evans, Channel Tres, Marco Plus, Teenear, Planet Asia & Flying Lindus, Le$ & DJ Mr. Rogers, Aloe Blacc, Alycynoos & Parental, Keke Wyatt, KXNG Crooked & Joell Ortiz, Boulevards, UNA MIA, Qu, The Erikson Project, UFO Fev & Fredro Starr, Fuego Base & OT the Real, Johnny Burgos & Jeremy Page, BVNGS, and J. Arrr & Greeneryy.
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.
Lucky Daye: Algorithm (R&B)
Lucky Daye’s career trajectory is a unique tale of success. As a teenager, he captured the nation’s attention with a stellar performance on American Idol, securing a spot in the top 20. His talent as a songwriter later shone bright with the penning of “She Got Her Own,” a track that climbed to number two on the R&B/hip-hop charts. It took another ten years for him to emerge under the moniker Lucky Daye, but his rise to fame was swift and dazzling, amassing six Grammy nods that spanned both classic and contemporary R&B genres for his works Painted, Table for Two EP, and Candydrip. In close collaboration with D’Mile, a long-standing musical stalwart, Lucky crafted Algorithm and his previous trio of albums. Their partnership is evident in every note, with the pre-album singles hinting at the unique nature of the LP—a blend that defies easy genre classification. From R&B to Pop to Yacht Rock, Lucky Daye proves he will continue raising the bar in his field.
[Listen]
Hiatus Kaiyote: Love Heart Cheat Code (Alternative)
Love Heart Cheat Code captures the essence of four musicians in synchronous harmony, teetering on the creative brink. This album, comprising 11 vibrant and lively tracks, radiates an effervescent glow; despite Hiatus Kaiyote’s reputation for intricate compositions and accolades, including Grammy nominations for their opulent soundscapes, the most striking aspect of LHCC is its uncontrived simplicity. The band’s creative process is not one of straightforward intention; it evolves through spontaneous jam sessions that stretch into the wee hours, shared meals, and playful experimentation with instruments and each other’s company. Amidst the mundane reality of packaging art into ‘product’ for today’s world, Hiatus Kaiyote finds comfort and joy in the individuality of each piece and song, imbuing them with a transcendent and resplendent musical charm.
[Listen]
Marsha Ambrosius: Casablanco (R&B)
Marsha Ambrosius has consistently served her fans with enchanting singing and relatable songwriting, whether as part of the R&B duo Floetry or as a solo artist. Her collaboration with the renowned producer Dr. Dre on Casablanco started when he sought her distinct voice for some of his productions. Soon, they decided to work on a full album together. Earlier this year, Ambrosius returned with “Thrill Her” and “One Night Stand,” an atmospheric soul anthem that showcases her signature honeyed voice while painting a picture of unfettered romance. Clearly, Ambrosius and Dre were a match made in R&B heaven.
[Listen]
Previous Industries: Service Merchandise (Hip-Hop)
Service Merchandise is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for rappers Open Mike Eagle, Video Dave, and STILL RIFT. They vividly recall the now-shuttered shopping mall, using it as a backdrop to express their feelings about heartbreak, loss, and the disposable nature of modern life. Over beats crafted by Child Actor, Quelle Chris, and Smoke Bonito, they spin a fresh narrative from remnants of the past. While the song may not have catchy melodies, it compensates with exceptional rap verses brimming with sharp insights, wit, and clever wordplay. Whether it’s their strong camaraderie or wealth of experience, these seasoned MCs showcase their lyricism as they seamlessly trade verses, creating a dynamic and engaging hip-hop experience reminiscent of a collaborative art piece.
[Listen]
Lupe Fiasco: Samurai (Hip-Hop)
With his latest release, Samurai, Lupe delves into his depths to deliver his most intimate work. The album traces the journey of a battle rapper, chronicling their development from the sharpening of their lyrical sword in the arena of spoken word warfare to the highlights of their professional escapades. The album’s title and theme are inspired by a snippet from the 2015 film Amy, where Winehouse’s voicemail to Salaam Remi, in which she refers to herself as a “samurai” due to her freshly penned battle-style verses, serves as a creative springboard. Comprising eight tracks, Samurai is sleek and thought-provoking, overflowing with conceptual richness while simultaneously shining a light on Lupe’s unwavering passion for the craft of rapping and his dedication to the service of hip-hop culture.
[Listen]
Boldy James & Conductor Williams: Across the Tracks (Hip-Hop)
In the bustling underground music scene, Boldy James is the name-making wave right now. Hailing from Atlanta and honing his craft in Detroit, this Griselda affiliate has become a regular feature on annual album roundups. His unwavering reliability is his strongest suit, with few missteps in his full-length EP releases. Case in point: his partnership with Nicholas Craven on the acclaimed Penalty of Leadership project. Latest in his string of successes is Across the Tracks, a collaborative effort with Conductor Williams that’s poised to join the ranks of his celebrated works.
[Listen]
Nao Yoshioka: Flow (R&B)
A standout talent in Japan’s music scene, Nao Yoshioka has made a return with her first album in half a decade. This soulful singer’s latest offering, titled Flow, is a narrative of self-exploration and robust spirit, interlacing a lavish blend of soul, R&B, jazz, and funk genres. Yoshioka collaborates with a host of international talent, including Devin Morrison, Takuya Kuroda, and Reuben James, while also enlisting the skills of engineers Qmillion and Sam Brawner. The album is perfectly crafted for the warm months, seamlessly transitioning between R&B, funk, and the more soulful aspects of pop. The production quality is consistently polished, reflecting an artist at her peak.
[Listen]
Aaron Frazer: Into the Blue (Retro Soul)
Aaron Frazer’s Into the Blue emerged from the ashes of personal turmoil, a tale as old as time for many iconic albums. Following a heart-wrenching move from Brooklyn to Los Angeles, Frazer found himself on a path that echoes through the album’s core motifs of sorrow, solitude, and the pursuit of solace. This courageous fusion of soul, psychedelia, spaghetti western, disco, gospel, and hip-hop showcases the expansive auditory spectrum of Frazer’s abilities.
[Listen]
Kiah Victoria: And Then We Wept (R&B)
An up-and-coming singer with a bright and soulful voice, Kiah Victoria is making waves in the music industry. Recognized as one of Billie Eilish’s top five underground artist picks and a favorite of Jhené Aiko, Victoria’s talent is undeniable. Her much-awaited first full-length album, And Then We Wept, has arrived after a series of well-received EPs. Victoria’s multifaceted contributions to music include not only her projects but also her role in sound healing and her past work writing songs for Issa Rae’s hit show Insecure. A proponent of meditation and a champion of love, Kiah Victoria is on a mission to elevate the vibration of positivity through her sincere and touching musical compositions.
[Listen]
nobigdyl.: The People We Became (Hip-Hop)
After a patient five years of waiting, nobigdyl. finally released his new album, The People We Became. The album was available on even.biz on June 12. Almost two months ago, dyl. released a mixtape titled THESE ARE NOT ON THE ALBUM. Before that, he collaborated with indie tribe. on U P P E R H A N D and L O W B L O W. His last full album was LOWERCASE TAPE, released in 2019.
[Listen]
Vinnie Paz: Jacinto’s Praying Mantis - EP (Hip-Hop)
Pennsylvania’s fierce rhyme slayer Vinnie Paz, renowned for his raw lyricism and unapologetic flows, is set to drop his latest offering, Jacinto’s Praying Mantis, a hard-hitting EP that showcases his relentless artistry. This EP is dark and gritty, packing a one-two punch with the tracks “Blood Bank Affair” featuring Eamon and “Brainscan Exorcism” with Recognize Ali and Boob Bronx, delivering a sound that’s as intense as a heavyweight title fight.
[Listen]
Lauren Evans: Affirmations: Book 1 (R&B)
Lauren Evans has ascended to new heights with her enchanting voice and uplifting words. Her introductory EP, Affirmations: Book 1, has now seen the light of day. Evans’ profound lyrics and natural singing talent enable her to create enduring melodies alongside musicians of every style.
[Listen]
Channel Tres: Head Rush (Electronic)
Hailing from Compton, the hip-house maestro Channel Tres has transitioned from lowkey production and DJ gigs to a prominent emcee signed to a major label, all thanks to his peerless style that shines on his first album, Head Rush. Tres, renowned for crafting beats for artists and spinning tracks at Duckwrth’s shows, has crafted a sound that voraciously incorporates house elements—punchy bass drums and syncopated high hats—and fuses them with West Coast hip-hop and R&B. The result is an enticing, groundbreaking amalgamation that infectiously sets his music apart.
[Listen]
Marco Plus: Solace (Hip-Hop)
Hip-hop’s legacy has taught us that those who invest their whole selves into the craft often chart their path, and Marco Plus, a versatile rapper hailing from Atlanta’s South Side, is firmly in the driver’s seat. Hailing from a lineage of musicians, Marco Plus has been spitting verses since his youth. With Solace, he is one of the most ardent and committed fresh talents, revealing his many layers through an unyielding performance, personal lyrics, and adaptable beats.
[Listen]
Teenear: Never Met a Me (R&B)
The long-awaited debut album from R&B powerhouse Teenear, Never Met a Me, has finally arrived, courtesy of Slip N Slide Records. This milestone marks the singer’s first comprehensive musical work since she burst into the industry several years ago. With this album, Teenear weaves a narrative that traces the roots of her artistic vision, enhancing her already emotionally charged composition style and revealing a fresh, more mature auditory direction.
[Listen]
Planet Asia & Flying Lindus: The Beauty of Barbarossaplatz (Hip-Hop)
West Coast lyrical heavyweight Planet Asia joins forces with Cologne’s beat wizard, Flying Lindus, for a transatlantic hip-hop masterclass. The Beauty of Barbarossaplatz fuses Planet Asia’s razor-sharp rhymes with Flying Lindus’s genre-bending production. This album showcases two artists at the top of their game, blending street wisdom with international flair. Planet Asia and Flying Lindus prove that true hip-hop knows no borders, creating an album that’ll rock speakers from California to Cologne.
[Listen]
Le$ & DJ Mr. Rogers: Last Laugh: The Prelude (Hip-Hop)
Houston's own Le$ teams up with the soul-sampling maestro, DJ Mr. Rogers, to drop a heavyweight contender in the rap game. Last Laugh: The Prelude is a 14-track knockout that brings the heat with Le$'s laid-back flow and Mr. Rogers' golden-era beats. From the gritty "Villain Era" to the smooth "Levitation," this album hits hard with raw bars, slick production, and a feature from Odd Future alum Domo Genesis on "Audacity." Le$ and DJ Mr. Rogers prove that they are a force to be reckoned with, serving up an album that will have the streets buzzing.
[Listen]
Aloe Blacc: Rock My Soul: Volume II - EP (Rock/Soul)
Aloe Blacc has unveiled Rock My Soul Volume II, the concluding EP of his two-part cover series. With this latest release, Blacc demonstrates his exceptional talent for reviving and infusing contemporary flair into iconic tracks from the 1990s and 2000s.
[Listen]
Alycynoos & Parental: Night Shift (Hip-Hop)
The Parisian production duo of Alcynoos and Parental reunite for Night Shift, a melodic instrumental project that’s guaranteed to have your head bobbing with its laid-back grooves.
[Listen]
Keke Wyatt: Certified (R&B)
A veteran singer who debuted in the music industry at 18 with chart-topping duets alongside Avant and a gold-certified debut album, Keke Wyatt is celebrated as one of the most esteemed R&B vocalists of her time. She’s also made a name for herself in the acting world, with appearances in popular reality TV shows. Wyatt’s fifth studio album, Certified, showcases her versatility, produced by Blac Elvis and featuring a cool set of tracks.
[Listen]
KXNG Crooked & Joell Ortiz: Tapestry (Hip-Hop)
The dynamic duo known as the Housing Authority Rap District, or H.A.R.D., comprising KXNG Crooked and Joell Ortiz, is back with their fourth and final album. Their previous releases, starting from Harbor City, have consistently delivered high-quality music, and this latest offering is a fitting conclusion to their run. The production on this album skillfully blends boom-bap and trap, allowing both MCs to showcase their distinct styles representing the East and West Coasts.
[Listen]
Boulevards: Carolina Funk: Barn Burner On Tobacco Road (Funk)
Jamil Rashad is back with a new album as the Boulevards, Carolina Funk: Barn Burner On Tobacco Road. Collaborating with funk producer Sergio Rios, Rashad draws inspiration from rare funk records and blaxploitation films to create a raw, gritty, and infectiously groovy sound. The album attests to the funk, featuring catchy hooks, syncopated basslines, precise drumming, and classic horns that add a dynamic and soulful touch.
[Listen]
UNA MIA: Airborne - EP (Pop/R&B)
Toronto native and Belleville-bred Alt-R&B/Pop artist UNA MIA made her debut on October 12, 2023, with the COLORSxSTUDIOS premiere of her lead single “Lose You,” followed by a series of additional single releases. Now, she’s unveiling her much-awaited debut EP, Airborne. This 7-track collection tells a powerful story of self-discovery, healing, and embracing personal liberation, capturing the essence of a ‘coming of age’ experience that intertwines the turmoil of the past with the hope of what’s to come.
[Listen]
Qu: Where Did the Sun Go (R&B)
Qu’s album, Where Did the Sun Go, showcases his evolution from a mere producer to a full-fledged artist, as he not only crafts beats but also pens lyrics, orchestrates musical layers, and brings his artistic vision to life across a complete album. The record includes collaborations with notable names such as Jay Prince and Serious Klein, alongside up-and-comers Josh Kye and Malaya, plus Kabul Fire’s Agajon and Ninja Kidsoul. Throughout 15 tracks, Qu demonstrates his adaptability by forging an alternative auditory landscape that draws from the rich legacies of hip-hop, R&B, and jazz.
[Listen]
The Erikson Project: Eriksonmotel (R&B)
The Erikson Project unveils their latest album, Eriksonmotel, a diverse collection of R&B tracks led by the musician Pierre Bouilleau. This release showcases an array of R&B styles, featuring collaborations with talented artists Enzo Franchi, Kat White, and Emma Luise. The 13-track album includes standout songs such as “U See Me,” “Sublime,” and “Watch Ur Move,” each of which highlights the group’s dynamic approach to R&B.
[Listen]
UFO Fev & Fredro Starr: Strapped (Hip-Hop)
Harlem’s own UFO Fev has joined forces with the veteran Fredro Starr to craft Strapped, his eighth studio album. Fev’s journey began in 2014 with his debut full-length, Around My Way, and it wasn’t until 2020 that he experienced his most significant year, releasing not one but three well-received projects: the Statik Selektah-produced sophomore album Fresh Air, the Termanology-produced debut EP From El Barrio, With Love, and the Big Ghost Ltd.-produced third album The Ghost of Albizu. With Fredro Starr’s recent mastery in production, he has been a pivotal force in elevating Fev’s music to new heights, resulting in some of his finest work to date.
[Listen]
Fuego Base & OT the Real: Moving Base OT (Hip-Hop)
The hip-hop duo Moving Base OT, comprising Fuego Base and OT the Real, have a shared history as labelmates, leading to a natural collaboration on their debut album. With their musical paths frequently intersecting, it was only fitting to unite their talents for a complete project. The result is Moving Base OT’s debut, which marks the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful partnership. The production on the album is rooted in the classic East Coast boom-bap style, with a diverse range of collaborators contributing their unique flavors to the mix. Each MC complements the other, lifting their lyrical game to new heights, and setting the stage for what could be the start of a long and prosperous journey.
[Listen]
Johnny Burgos & Jeremy Page: All I Ever Wonder (R&B)
Johnny Burgos is a triple threat with skills in singing, songwriting, and production, and has teamed up with the seasoned soul maestro Jeremy Page to deliver their collaborative debut, All I Ever Wonder. Burgos bares his soul with honesty in his lyrics and vocal performance, whereas Page’s expert production provides a seamless foundation. Their collaboration feels fated, blending retro-soul stylings that evoke a sense of both fresh innovation and fond reminiscence, crafting a musical experience that transcends time and touches the core of our shared human experience.
[Listen]
BVNGS: Mary Mack (Hip-Hop)
BVNGS, an MC from New York City, has caught the eye of Flee Lord, one of the most prolific underground artists of recent times. Three years ago, Flee Lord, who heads Lord Mobb Music, recognized her talent and offered her a deal. On her latest release, Mary Mack, BVNGS showcases her versatility with production that blends boom-bap, trap, and drumless beats, embodying the Big Apple's musical landscape. With this effort, she further establishes herself as a force to be reckoned with in the underground scene.
[Listen]
J. Arrr & Greeneryy: Forgotten Chvpter - EP (Hip-Hop)
J. Arrr’s latest offering, Forgotten Chvpter, is the fourth installment in his “Chvpter” series and is initially available as a Bandcamp exclusive until its official release on various digital streaming platforms on Independence Day. This short journey through the mind of J. Arrr showcases his artistic vision, with every track on the album being produced by Greeneryy.
[Listen]
Bonus: Malik Elijah: Vintage Nostalgia (Hip-Hop)
Maryland-born, Boston-based MC Malik Elijah drops his fourth mixtape, cementing his status as a rising force in hip-hop. Vintage Nostalgia is a 14-track ride through Malik’s world, blending old-school vibes with fresh perspectives on life, hustle, and self-discovery. From the triumphant “Flawless Victory” to the reflective “Outside of the Cul de Sac,” Malik Elijah delivers bars that’ll stick in your head and beats that’ll move your feet. With Vintage Nostalgia, Malik Elijah proves he’s got the skills to pay the bills and the vision to take hip-hop to new heights.
[Listen]
Bonus: Doctor Omega: The Mecca (Hip-Hop)
It’s a nice surprise. Established producer Doctor Omega releases his album, The Mecca. The project features nine tracks with collaborations from respected hip-hop artists, including Kool G Rap, AZ, Styles P, and Ghostface Killah. The Mecca showcases Doctor Omega’s production skills alongside performances from both veteran and current rap talents. The album is set to release soon, offering listeners a blend of classic and contemporary hip-hop sounds.
[Listen]
Bonus: K.J.: The Sun Don’t Chill (Hip-Hop)
Atlanta’s rising rap star K.J. has been setting the South in the underground ablaze with his fierce flow and hard-hitting beats. His latest album, The Sun Don’t Chill, brings twelve scorching tracks that blend raw street wisdom with soul samples. K.J. teams up with fellow heat-makers J. Arrr, Ja’king the Divine, Javi Darko, and Griot Noy to create a non-stop barrage of lyrical fire. From the opening bars of “Beginning to End (The Genesis)” to the final punch of “Fist of the North Star,” K.J. proves why he’s the hottest thing in hip-hop right now.
[Listen]
Bonus: YUNGMORPHEUS & Alexander Spit: Waking Up and Choosing Violence (Hip-Hop)
Los Angeles-based hip-hop artist YUNGMORPHEUS has made it his mission to weave the trials of life into his music. However, with his latest offering, Waking Up and Choosing Violence, crafted with producer Alexander Spit, known for his work with The Alchemist and his lyricism, YUNGMORPHEUS seems to have found a new gear. His words have a sense of electricity, as if he’s on the verge of unlocking life’s secrets. YUNGMORPHEUS’s journey through sound has earned him a dedicated following, and Waking Up and Choosing Violence looks set to catapult him to new heights. With Spit’s dynamic production backdrop, the rapper-sociologist YUNGMORPHEUS is more accessible and confident than ever.
[Listen]