Pink Tape had all the hype, but did Lil Uzi Vert fully deliver? Not entirely. While the album has several strong and enjoyable cuts, it feels bloated and could have benefited from a tighter, more focused tracklist, like around 16 songs instead of 26. That said, it’s still a solid and enjoyable effort, leaning more into rage elements than previous projects. The album kicks off quite strong with a run of high-energy rage tracks, but the momentum dips a bit in the middle with a stretch of ... read more
Mike Dean’s 4:23 is a sleek synth-driven project, crafted in between his touring schedule with The Weeknd, who also co-produced the album. The Weeknd’s contributions are a definite highlight, and it would be exciting to hear him over more production like this in the future. Mike Dean’s signature synth arrangements are as grand and atmospheric as ever, with standout tracks like Artificial Intelligence, More Coke!!, Music for the Future, and Goodbye Earth. While the album ... read more
Love Sick isn’t necessarily a step up from Don Toliver’s previous two albums, but it’s a solid project that feels somewhat overhated. While it doesn’t break new ground or bring something unexpected, it still delivers some strong cuts like Let Her Go, Go Down, Leather Coat, and If I Had. The album struggles with consistency, as some tracks feel weaker or more forgettable, but overall, it’s still an enjoyable listen. That said, Don has the potential to push himself ... read more
Gorillaz’ Cracker Island is a solid addition to their discography, though not their best or most consistent effort. The album delivers a fun listening experience with standout moments, particularly the title track Cracker Island and New Gold, which shine thanks to stellar contributions from Thundercat and Tame Impala. While some tracks feel a bit less exciting and somewhat predictable, the album still captures the signature Gorillaz blend of eclectic sounds, infectious grooves, and funk, ... read more
KayCyy’s TW2052 marks a solid step in establishing his own artistic identity after his standout contributions to Donda. The project showcases his unique vocal style and forward-thinking sound, with production from Gesaffelstein adding a dark, atmospheric edge. While the album doesn’t fully redefine his lane just yet, it’s a nice collection of tracks that hint at his potential to carve out something truly distinct in the future.
Young Thug’s Business is Business, his first album released during his incarceration, delivers a mix of highs and lows. While tracks like Cars Bring Me Out, Uncle M, Abracadabra, Oh U Went, and Jonesboro stand out as strong cuts, the album as a whole feels somewhat inconsistent. Thug sticks to his signature formula, which still works but can sometimes feel too familiar. There are moments of brilliance, but also weaker tracks that hold it back from being one of his best. Overall, it's ... read more
Metro Boomin’s Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse soundtrack is a solid, star-studded album that effectively complements the film’s atmosphere. While it doesn’t necessarily break new ground, Metro’s signature production shines, creating an immersive soundscape that fits seamlessly with the movie’s energy. The project delivers some undeniable highlights, including Am I Dreaming, and brings a mix of moody, atmospheric cuts alongside high-energy bangers. Though it ... read more
After dropping several strong singles, I was pretty excited for falling or flying. Jorja Smith’s vocals sound incredible as always, and the album has some great highlights. However, it lacks a bit of cohesion and consistency, with a few more underwhelming tracks scattered throughout. Still, when it shines, it really delivers. Just hoping for a somewhat more focused project next time
For All The Dogs: Scary Hours Edition is the Drake we’ve been wanting to hear more of. These six bonus tracks easily rank among the best on the album (which, admittedly, isn’t a high bar given the uneven quality of the original release). Drake delivers some of his sharpest rapping in a while, backed by excellent production, including great work from Conductor Williams. If anything, this small batch of tracks proves that when Drake locks in, he can still create compelling, focused ... read more
Justice – Planisphère is peak electronic music. It’s as grand and cinematic as it gets, taking you on a wild ride. The track’s (or EP's) structure is more progressive and experimental than typical house music, unfolding in movements that feel almost orchestral in scale. Justice masterfully blends rock influences with electronic elements, creating a larger-than-life sound that’s really intense and mesmerising. Simply amazing.
Leon Thomas III continues to solidify his place in the R&B scene with Electric Dusk. There are some truly great moments where he literally floats over the production. While the mixing—especially on vocals here and there—isn’t always the most consistent, the project as a whole remains a very enjoyable listen. Excited to see where he’ll go from here.
Following the massive success of SOUR, Olivia Rodrigo returns with GUTS, sticking to her rebellious teenage pop-rock sound. While the album delivers fun moments and solid song structures, its lyrics might not resonate as strongly if you're not part of the teenage girl demographic. Furthermore, sometimes it plays it a bit safe, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing for this album. But, it would be great to see Olivia trying to further evolve her songwriting and experiment further ... read more
While Austin received mostly mixed reviews, I actually enjoyed it. Sure, Post Malone's songwriting isn’t always the most intricate (though there’s some fun wordplay here and there), but you can tell he had fun making this album. Compared to Twelve Carat Toothache, which felt weighed down by his struggles, Austin brings back a sense of joy. There are plenty of tracks that make you want to bop your head and just feel good. It’s a fine and pleasant listen, and I’ve ... read more
A solid album, though a bit front-loaded, delivering Brent’s signature smooth R&B. While the songwriting isn’t always the most consistent or deep, the overall vibe remains captivating. Brent continues providing us that laid-back atmosphere, making for an enjoyable listen overall.
If you had told anyone in the '90s that André 3000 would ever release an ambient flute album, they’d probably send you straight to a mental institution. But honestly, I’m glad he took this leap. While it may not be the most groundbreaking ambient album out there, it’s still a solid effort. The album creates a space where you can drift off, almost feeling spiritual at times. It surprises you in some moments, but it could’ve been even more experimental. That ... read more
Sister Sledge’s We Are Family is an absolute gem and one of the finest disco records of the '70s. The sisters’ vocals are as smooth and infectious as ever, perfectly complemented by the legendary production duo of Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers. Their signature Chic sound elevates every track, delivering some of the best grooves in disco history. From the anthemic title track to the deep cuts, the album is packed with timeless energy and undeniable funk.
When the first single (4EVA) dropped, I was all hyped for the perfect summer album. While KAYTRAMINÉ isn’t perfect, it definitely delivers those breezy, feel-good summer vibes. I do wish they had been a bit more experimental with the sound, but in the end, the album gives exactly what you’d expect—nothing groundbreaking, yet undeniably fun and full of energy.
After delivering a near-perfect project with Pray for Paris, Westside Gunn returns with the second instalment in the 'Praying' series. And Then You Pray for Me expands on his signature sound but also leans into more trap influences, making for a longer and more varied album. While there are standout moments that showcase his sharp ear for production and collaborations, the album feels a bit bloated, with some tracks not hitting as hard as others. A mixed bag, but with some undeniable ... read more
Returning to his roots in dance music, James Blake truly delivers something ethereal. The album creates a futuristic, angelic, and almost hypnotic landscape that pulls you in completely. Tracks like ‘Loading,’ ‘Tell Me,’ ‘I Want You to Know,’ and ‘Fire the Editor’ stand out as some beautiful, stand-out moments. A great album that lets you drift away into its trippy, dreamlike soundscapes.
Another amazing album by OPN. In between his work for The Weeknd, he delivered a great record that’s intricate, deep, and thought-provoking. The album feels futuristic, sonically rich, and at times even unsettling. It constantly shifts between beauty and distortion, making for an immersive and unpredictable listen.