Rustie – EVENIFUDONTBELIEVE
On Rustie’s third LP, he returns to his roots and makes a solo album that fulfills his artistic vision. Although a bit samey, it’s a fun ride that is impossible not to dance to.
On Rustie’s third LP, he returns to his roots and makes a solo album that fulfills his artistic vision. Although a bit samey, it’s a fun ride that is impossible not to dance to.
On Julia Holter’s fourth and strongest LP, she abandons her conceptual framework and instead goes for a direct and personal affair. The result is a gorgeously produced album that puts Holter’s vocals at the forefront of the release, letting listeners in on an intimate musical outing.
Grimes’ fourth LP is bound to be a divisive album among her fans. While the first third of the album features some confounding choices and terrible lyrics, the rest of the album makes up for it with stunning production and talent.
With Beirut’s latest album after four years, he strips away what made his earlier albums so unique and pledges to simplicity. It’s an easy listen, but seems to settle for this rather than explore what Beirut is fully capable of.
Petite Noir’s debut LP is one that reaffirms the promising status he had following his EP. He uses a wide variety of influences to confidently make an album that is his own fresh, unique sound.
Method Man returns with a solid album that harkens back to his Wu-Tang Clan days with his laid-back flow and classic New York beats. While there isn’t much of an evolution in sound, great guest features make up for it and make the album enjoyable.
Dr. Dre’s final album may not live up to the immense hype that surrounded it. But this doesn’t take away from what is a meticulously crafted hip-hop album that shines in its production and guest features.
HEALTH goes for a poppier sound on their latest LP, ditching the sonic squall of their previous work. It’s a surprising album that has an excellent contrast of upbeat vocals and dark, industrial electronic beats.
The Alchemist adds to his already-prolific portfolio with his newest beat tape. Despite it’s brevity, Retarded Alligator Beats manages to demonstrate The Alchemist’s array of styles. Yet there’s a feeling that the length of the beat tape holds back some of The Alchemist’s full potential.
Mas Ysa’s major label debut is a promising look at an artist who expends energy through his heartfelt lyrics and catchy electronic beats.