Amiyah Golden
By: Amiyah Golden
[My Anticipated Listens]
June 7
NxWorries: Why Lawd?
I don’t know maybe I should gatekeep … Fine, I won’t. The collective NxWorries, comprised of Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge — two stellar artists in their own regard — come together again to create work that is reminiscent of an expansive discography of Black soul, blues and swagger.
Everytime I hear a NxWorries track my head goes straight into a rhythmic bob with an accompanied “stank” face (don’t worry this is a good thing.) And my reaction is always the same — as I know their entire catalog front to back — and I still catch myself having the same visceral reaction as if I was hearing their songs for the first time (sheer awe) And I unfortunately have had no choice but to replay their first album, “Yes Lawd!”, since it’s been eight years since their last release.
*Looks to the imaginary camera* Yes, EIGHT YEARS! (How rude.)
While they’ve released music in that time frame, including a killer single, ‘Where I’m From’ featuring H.E.R. and “Daydreaming” in 2023 and “86Sentra” in April (also stellar songs) it hasn’t completely quenched my thirst for some new music – but they have finally delivered on such desire with the announcement of their newest project, ‘Why Lawd!’
The 19-track album will have features from some of my favorites such as Thundercat and Earl Sweatshirt — along with features from Snoop Dog, Charlie Wilson, October London, Rae Khalil and … Dave Chappelle! (Is Chappelle hiding some musical abilities?) Those singles that I mentioned earlier will also be on the album, so you can share in the sentiment that I express.
I’ve listened to their early release of their song “FromHere” which features Snoop Dogg and was instantly transported to an alternative version of the ’70s with the production and Paak’s vocals. It was perfection.
So, take this recommendation with care… I’m usually a gatekeeper (so you’re welcome)
Kaytranada: Timeless
This release has me pacing. No adjectives can’t pinpoint my emotions for this one.
This comes years after 2019’s “Bubba,” his last solo release (which is an amazing project by the way). And while he did give us “KAYTRAMINÉ,” his collaborative project with Amine, it’s been a long time coming for fans of the artist to receive a full solo album.
He is not slacking on the features at all with artists named such as Rochelle Jordan, SiR, Thundercat, Anderson .Paak, Childish Gambino, Channel Tres, Don Toliver … and the list keeps going. I know this album is going to be a heavy hitter.
I credit Kaytranada for being one of the main contributors to the resurgence of house and alternative house music. And I genuinely can’t express how excited I am to hear this project.
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Release date TBA
Lucky Daye: Algorithm
Listen, Lucky Daye continually supports my ongoing delusions. How could he not with a voice like that! Lyrics like that! (And a face like that!)
I’ve been a longtime fan of the R&B singer, and he continually proves himself time and time again. His debut album, “Painted”, is actually *chef’s kiss* and goes platinum in my household.
While he hasn’t set a release date for “Algorithm,” Lucky Daye has alerted outlets that we can anticipate it this month. He has also announced a tour – and I will absolutely be in the crowd – with his only Florida show at the House of Blues in Orlando.
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June 14
James Vincent McMorrow: Wide Open, Horses
When I saw that Irish singer, James Vincent McMorrow was releasing an album, I paused (and it was a very dramatic pause) because it unlocked a moment of time for me.
Little me used to religiously listen to McMorrow, and as a former dancer, I found his songs were perfect for choreographing in my bedroom. His vulnerability, chilling lyrics and overall composition served as the perfect accompaniment to my contemporary routines, and his songs still live in my playlists to this day. Because of my lack of visitation to my dance playlists, his songs became a cherished misplacement through time, but the immediate notice of his latest work catapulted me back into all of his work. I instantly replayed all my beloved songs from him such as “Wicked Game (Live)”, “Cavalier,” “If I Had a Boat” and “Ghosts” from Twilight’s infamous “Breaking Dawn – Pt. 2” soundtrack.
McMorrow is truly a timeless artist. I recommend him for the nights lit by candlelight or when you find that aching love story.
If you’ve never experienced his artistry, you’re in for a treat with this new album.
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Channel Tres: “Head Rush”
This summer the category is…HOUSE!
House music — traditional, alternative, techno, fusion — I don’t care what kind, just make sure you add some to your playlist this season.
Channel Tres has this sound down with creating music that makes you want to move your body in the carefree manner that you see on TV: strobe lights, closed eyes and sweat. A good time further supported by good music!
My initial introduction to the California singer and producer was at a Thundercat concert I attended a few years back. Channel Tres was the opener and was a ball of energy — his music reflecting such — and that turned me into an instant fan.
With collaborations with artists such as Terrace Martin, James Blake, VanJess and so many others he has established his own flair not just as an artist but as a producer as well.
I’m really pumped to hear his newest banger, “Head Rush,” and I’m curious to see if we will hear any features!
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June 28
Hiatus Kaiyote: “Make Friends”
This is another group I want to gatekeep … but I cannot contain how much I love them or I might implode. The Australian-based jazz/soul band is releasing their fourth studio album, “Make Friends,” and I haven’t shut up about it since I heard the announcement.
Hiatus Kaiyote has kept their spot as one of my favorite groups ever (and will never move) as they make untouchable music that blows my mind every time.
With three perfect albums under their belt, I expect nothing less than superlative. They released two singles from the project, “Everything’s Beautiful” and “Telescope,” which both highlight eccentric production and lead singer Nai Palm’s matchless vocals.
Hiatus Kaiyote as a whole and Palm as a soloist announced North American tours starting this summer. While, there’s unfortunately not a Florida date, the closest show will be held in Atlanta at The Eastern.
This may be my last article as I may have to sell a kidney to attend, but for them… it would be well worth it!
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June 7
Tems: “Born in the Wild”
The “Wait for you” singer will be releasing her debut album, “Born in the Wild.”
Charli XCX: “Brat”
The British pop princess is releasing her album, “Brat,” just in time for the summer shenanigans.
June 14
Normani: “Dopamine”
The former Fifth Harmony member will be releasing her anticipated debut album, ‘Dopamine’ this June.
June 21
Kehlani: “Crash”
R&B singer, Kehlani is releasing her fourth studio album, ‘Crash.’
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June 28
Omar Apollo: “God Said No”
“God Said No” is Omar Apollo’s latest project. The singer best known for his song, ‘Evergreen’ has finally completed his 14-track album.
Lupe Fiasco: Samurai
Rapper, Lupe Fiasco, has come to follow up his 2022 project with his new album, “Samurai.”
Johnny Cash: Songwriter
A posthumous album from the legendary Johnny Cash will be released this summer with unreleased music from the beloved singer. Cash’s son and former musicians who played alongside Cash have curated his late work to be shared on the album, “Songwriter.”
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