Wednesday Roundups #57: 35 Albums/EPs You Should Listen to In Your Spare Time

Stream releases from Bilal, NxWorries, Lalah Hathaway, PJ Morton, Fana Hues, Raveena, Sideshow, Julius Rodriguez, J-Darius, Tiyon, Da Flyy Hooligan & Malek Winter, IAMGAWD & Clypto, and more.

Jun 19, 2024

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 Bilal, NxWorries, Lalah Hathaway, PJ Morton, Fana Hues, Raveena, Sideshow, Julius Rodriguez, J-Darius, Tiyon, Da Flyy Hooligan & Malek Winter, IAMGAWD & Clypto, Ty Farris, Donte Thomas, Reaper Mook, jev., Cruza, Fr1th, DJ Quik & JasonMartin, Zsela, Nippa, Mikahl Anthony, The Wiz Broadway, James Vincent McMorrow, Infinity Song, RJD2, Lil’ John Roberts, Jamie Finlay, Silent Snipers & Khrysis, Swavay, Lekan, Victor Ray, Jessica Wilde, Geoffroy, and Staples Jr. Singers.

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.

Bilal: Live at Glasshaus (R&B)

Bilal takes audiences on a heartfelt and emotional journey through songs from nearly twenty-five years ago in a mesmerizing live performance. With the help of old friends from his illustrious career—such as Questlove, Common, Robert Glasper, and Burniss Travis—they rejuvenate the tracks that established their reputation in the vibrant neo-soul scene of the late ‘90s and early ‘00s, using their contemporary musical intuition. In a recent interview, Bilal shared the inspirations behind this album and the various elements that brought about this touching musical reunion, captured in Live at Glasshaus (Glasshaus Presents).

NxWorries: Why Lawd? (R&B/Hip-Hop)

After an eight-year break since their acclaimed debut album, Yes Lawd!, NxWorries has explosively returned to the music world. During the creation of their latest LP, fans were treated to a preview of the single “Where I Go” back in 2020. The official single featuring H.E.R. followed in 2022, leading up to their 2023 release, “Daydreaming,” and their latest 2024 track, “86Sentra.” Their new album, Why Lawd?, features a diverse mix of talents, including Dave Chappelle, Thundercat, Snoop Dogg, October London, Earl Sweatshirt, and others, enhancing the album’s rich and varied soundscape.

Lalah Hathaway: VANTABLACK (R&B)

Considered by many to be her finest work yet, Lalah Hathaway’s eighth studio album, VANTABLACK, showcases a remarkable blend of artistry and collaboration. Featuring appearances from talented artists such as WILLOW, Common, MC Lyte, and Rapsody, the album’s array of guest performances might contribute to its acclaim. The LP shines with tracks like “So In Love,” a unique take on love songs and a personal favorite for Hathaway to perform, along with “I AM,” an empowering groove emphasizing positivity and self-assurance. Yet, what perhaps makes VANTABLACK stand out the most is its profound celebration of Black identity. Named after the darkest shade known to humanity, the album represents a pivotal moment for Hathaway, marking a period of embracing her Blackness more fully than ever before.

PJ Morton: Cape Town to Cairo (R&B/Afrobeats)

PJ Morton embarked on a 30-day journey through Africa and returned to the United States with his new album, Cape Town to Cairo. This album is a reflection of his deep engagement with local cultures and their musical elements, resulting in a creation that could be seen as an ancestral dream come true. While the album is rich with the sounds and influences of the African diaspora, Morton didn’t completely abandon his traditional musical roots. These roots are evident in tracks like “I Found You,” “Home Again,” and “Simunye (We Are One).”

Fana Hues: Moth (R&B)

Fana Hues’s third album, Moth, envelops listeners in a sonic cocoon that symbolizes her “newfound womanhood.” Following the release of Flora + Fana two years ago, Moth represents the next phase in her musical journey. Notable tracks include the exuberant “Sweet Like,” the escapist anthem “Rental,” and the introspective “Perfect Delusion.”

Raveena: Where the Butterflies Go In the Rain (R&B)

Raveena’s latest album, Where the Butterflies Go in the Rain, marks a significant chapter in her musical journey. This third solo project, following the well-received 2022 release of Asha’s Awakening, required a considerable amount of time to craft. Raveena herself feels a deep sense of fulfillment with this record, and the introspective nature of this album stems partly from the emotional state she was in during its creation.

Sideshow: F.U.N. T.O.Y. (Hip-Hop)

Sideshow has unveiled his newest album, F.U.N. T.O.Y., a fully solo project from the up-and-coming rapper under MIKE’s label. The album features various beats sourced from multiple producers, presenting a unified theme. This collection showcases Sideshow’s signature blend of authenticity, grit, and meticulously penned lyrics. The songs are brief, yet each one is packed with the artist’s raw emotion and truth. In addition to his musical talents, Sideshow is also a skilled graphic designer. To complement the album launch, he introduced a vibrant assortment of branded knit beanies as part of a dedicated merchandise line.

Julius Rodriguez: Evergreen (Jazz)

At 25, Julius Rodriguez has been highly praised for his remarkable sense of harmony and mastery across multiple instruments, including the piano, drums, and bass, as well as whatever else he feels inclined to play at any given time. His versatility allows him to seamlessly fit into a variety of musical settings, from psychedelic free jazz performances in Brooklyn to large-scale rap concerts in Los Angeles and even sophisticated supper-club gigs on the Upper West Side. His latest release, Evergreen, which drops this Friday via Verve Records, is a 40-minute exploration that blends electric-acoustic textures, drawing just as much from tradition as it does from innovation, resulting in a sound that evokes the boldly clear aesthetic of 1970s jazz fusion. This album marks a notable shift from his 2022 debut, Let Sound Tell All, which was heavily influenced by the jazz and gospel traditions that shaped his early years performing in churches and small venues.

J-Darius: Pressure (R&B)

J-Darius returns with his third effort with Pressure. Based in San Antonio, TX, he’s an artist specializing in soul and R&B. Drawing inspiration from jazz, neo-soul, dance, and gospel, he has crafted a distinct musical style. His dedication is to creating introspective music that aims to motivate and touch anyone who listens.

Tiyon: The Dayton Project (R&B)

Tiyon discovered his passion for stardom at just two years old, singing in church. He grew up constantly emulating Whitney Houston, honing his vocal skills to master attributes such as tone, vibrato, riffs, and runs, and this showcases this on The Dayton Project. He attributes his remarkable gift to God and draws inspiration from numerous influences (we wish Lil’ Mo sing on the project), aiming to cement his legacy as a music industry great.

Da Flyy Hooligan & Malek Winter: Blacc Kenzou (Hip-Hop)

Earlier this year, Da Flyy Hooligan collaborated with Wun Two to release the EP Nocturnal Hooli Vol. 1. While he’s frequently associated with the Griselda sound due to his adeptness in that style, people often overlook his wide-ranging abilities. This past Friday saw the release of his latest album, Blacc Kenzou, which boasts full production by Malek Winter from GourmetDeluxxx and Winter Records.

IAMGAWD & Clypto: More Suede (BS2.5) - EP [Hip-Hop]

Following the triumph of Bloodstained Suede II, IAMGAWD & Clypto return with More Suede (BS2.5), offering a 7-track EP. This project includes unreleased tracks that didn’t make it onto the first two installments, along with a few new songs. Despite being referred to as leftovers, More Suede reinforces the notion that IAMGAWD & Clypto are a duo to watch closely whenever they drop new music.

Ty Farris: Enigma With an Attitude (Hip-Hop)

Detroit’s hip-hop landscape is famous for its unfiltered talent and genuine narratives, with Ty Farris standing out as a key figure upholding this tradition. Today sees the release of his newest solo effort, Enigma With an Attitude. Spanning 12 tracks, the album highlights Farris’s exceptional lyrical capabilities and his talent for depicting the harsh yet poetic realities of street life.

Donte Thomas: An Apple a Day (Hip-Hop)

Embedded in the ever-thriving hip-hop culture of Portland, Donte Thomas has been an understated powerhouse for ten years, blending keen, self-reflective verses with rich, melodic rhythms that captivate both hardcore fans and casual listeners alike. His newest project, An Apple a Day, transcends being just a group of songs; it serves as a declaration on enduring and maturing amidst life’s pandemonium, all seen from the perspective of an artist determined to remain steadfast.

Reaper Mook: Max ‘Pagne Goes to New York (Hip-Hop)

From the lively streets of Long Beach, California, Reaper Mook has become a hot topic with his unique flavor, potent lyrics, and strong stage presence. His sophisticated and slow-burning mobster music with Max ‘Pagne Goes to New York mirrors his distinctive outlook on life in Long Beach, harboring hopes for a brighter future featuring YL, Da$H, and Lojii. Reaper Mook’s enigmatic aura and stylishly debonair production have cemented his place as one of the most intriguing new artists in the scene.

jev.: When Angels Cry (Hip-Hop)

A 24-year-old MC hailing from Ontario, Canada, jev first gained recognition at the outset of 2021 with his debut track “Jays.” The following winter, he unveiled his first EP, The Color Grey. His follow-up project, Lonerworld, was released the subsequent fall. Just a month ago, jev released a pair of singles, which, unbeknownst to many, were a precursor to his forthcoming debut full-length studio album, When Angels Cry, which balances hip-hop, R&B, and trap.

Cruza: Cruzafied (R&B)

Although Cruza hails from Florida, their music transports listeners to other dimensions with ease. This eclectic group, featuring vocalist Adam Kain, guitarist Charity Joy Brown, bassist AJ Roth, and producer Sago, blends elements of ethereal soul, R&B, and psychedelia into a hypnotic mix. Their sound, unconfined by traditional genres, is perfectly suited for cozy evenings with a partner, lounging around with friends, or savoring a late-night indica session. Their freshly released album, Cruzafied, navigates these nocturnal soundscapes with a more refined style.

Fr1th: Mind Blossom (R&B)

South London’s own Fr1th, a talented producer and musician, unveils his album Mind Blossom, which encapsulates his artistic work from the past two years across 13 tracks. This debut offering showcases an eclectic mix of genres inspired by eminent figures such as J Dilla and Ludovico Einaudi. It features a unique fusion of piano-led beats, encompassing lo-fi, chill, ambient, electronic, jazz, and hip-hop influences. A captivating collection, it promises entrancing rhythms that are sure to get heads nodding, highlighting Fr1th’s creativity and versatility.

DJ Quik & JasonMartin: Chupacabra (Hip-Hop)

DJ Quik and JasonMartin epitomize California’s music culture. Though they come from different periods, their mutual passion for G-funk and laid-back, feel-good car tunes unite them. DJ Quik, a cornerstone in the G-funk scene, brings his pioneering influence to the collaboration. Often, a promising partnership on paper can fail to live up to expectations in reality, but DJ Quik and JasonMartin not only meet but likely exceed the anticipation. Their collaboration, Chupacabra, blends the familiar and smooth sounds fans love with a freshness distinct from their solo efforts, positioning it as a potential standout West Coast album of 2024.

Zsela: Big for You (Pop/R&B)

Zsela operates on her own schedule. Her fascinating initial EP, Ache of Victory, hit the scene in 2020 after spending five years honing the tracks. Fast forward another four years, and the singer-songwriter is finally unveiling her debut album, Big for You. This release blends elements of art pop and R&B, meticulously highlighting her extraordinary, unique voice. Boasting a supernatural, low contralto range, her voice is both elastic and captivating, filling every space with its remarkable presence.

Nippa: Industreets - EP (R&B)

Nippa has released his fresh EP titled Industreets in its entirety. This emerging talent has been gaining momentum, recently celebrating his first nomination at the MOBO Awards in the Best Newcomer category and supporting the renowned Bryson Tiller on a completely sold-out tour. With tracks such as “Sugar” and “Around the World,” Nippa masterfully merges rap with R&B, creating a distinct and appealing sound.

Mikahl Anthony: Muse (R&B/Hip-Hop)

Mikahl Anthony has established a deep presence in the global R&B and hip-hop communities. As an in-demand artist with a multi-faceted skill set, he is one of the founding members of Chicago’s THEMpeople collective. Muse is an album grounded in storytelling, complemented by several self-directed, visually stunning film pieces. It features diverse commentaries from various contributors sharing their tales and co-analyzing their experiences with Mikahl. These narratives add depth to the heartfelt lyrics, creating an authentic and sincere discourse throughout the record.

Various Artists: The Wiz (2024 Broadway Cast Recording) [Soundtrack]

This interesting adaptation of The Wiz has revolutionized Broadway, infusing it with soul, gospel, rock, and 70s funk into its score and crafting a poignant narrative of Dorothy’s quest to discover her identity in a modern context. A blend of ballet, jazz, and contemporary pop injects a fresh vitality into the familiar path down the yellow brick road. Leading an exceptional Broadway cast, Nichelle Lewis stars as ‘Dorothy,’ Wayne Brady takes on the role of ‘The Wiz,’ Deborah Cox appears as ‘Glinda,’ and Melody A. Betts performs dual roles as ‘Aunt Em’ and ‘Evillene.’ The cast also includes Kyle Ramar Freeman as the ‘Lion,’ Phillip Johnson Richardson as the ‘Tinman,’ and Avery Wilson as the ‘Scarecrow.’ The talented ensemble features Lauryn Adams, Shayla Alayre Caldwell, Jay Copeland, Allyson Kaye Daniel, Judith Franklin, Michael Samarie George, Nadja Hayes, Destini Hendricks, Collin Heyward, Olivia Jackson, Christina Jones, Polanco Jones, Kolby Kindle, Mariah Lyttle, Kareem Marsh, Alan Mingo, Jr., Anthony Murphy, Dustin Praylow, Cristina Rae, Matthew Sims Jr., Avilon Trust Tate, Keenan D. Washington, and Timothy Wilson.

James Vincent McMorrow: Wide Open, Horses (Alternative)

James Vincent McMorrow’s Wide Open, Horses represents a deeply personal collection reflecting everything that has shaped James’s journey thus far. With this LP, he’s reclaiming his story, embracing self-acceptance, and reconstructing his identity and relationship with music. Through Wide Open, Horses, McMorrow offers an honest portrayal of his growth and the experiences that have led him to this stage in his career.

Infinity Song: Metamorphosis Complete (Soft Rock)

Soft rock band Infinity Song has unveiled their new album, Metamorphosis Complete, which acts as a culmination of their debut offering, Metamorphosis EP, a release that propelled their rapid rise to fame. This fresh long-play features six brand-new tracks alongside their viral sensations “Hater’s Anthem” and “Slow Burn.” One standout track, “More Beautiful,” serves as a counterpart to “Slow Burn,” while songs like “Comedy” offer a more introspective vibe. The album concludes with “Sunshine,” a piece described as the definitive end to their Metamorphosis chapter, like a period finishing a sentence. Although the band’s journey of transformation continues, they now embody a sense of assuredness, feeling less need to prove themselves and more confidence in acknowledging that this phase of their evolution is complete.

RJD2: Visions Out of Limelight (Hip-Hop)

RJD2 is back with his eighth studio album, continuing to impress as he has for over three decades. Although you might recognize his iconic work from the Mad Men theme or his classic album Deadringer, his influence extends far beyond, with his music appearing in various commercials, TV shows, and films. Even if his name escapes you, his unmistakable tunes likely won’t. Visions Out of Limelight propels his signature style forward, blending funky, enigmatic, and soulfully quirky sounds that liberate the mind and inevitably lead to enjoyable rhythms. This album doesn’t disappoint, featuring the legendary Jamie Lidell, frequent contributor Jordan Brown, and even RJD2 himself on one track.

Lil’ John Roberts: Elevation (Jazz)

Lil’ John Roberts boasts an impressive network of notable connections that are too vast to enumerate completely. Renowned as one of the premier session and touring musicians of his era, he has also carved out a significant presence with his band, the Chronicle. His latest album, Elevation, is a meditation project. This album was created from a collaboration between himself and the exceptionally talented keyboardist Kenny Banks Jr. During the quarantine of 2020, with all the gigs closed, they found themselves with ample time. In response to the sudden halt, we channeled their creativity and emotions into their music.

Jamie Finlay: Sun Dogs (R&B)

James Finlay unleashed Sun Dogs, the astonishing first album, as an exceptional composer, songwriter, and producer. This groundbreaking release fuses electric soul, spiritual jazz, and psychedelia into a singular sound. It is a richly textured and deeply personal work that delves into themes such as love, loss, mourning, and discovering inner strength during challenging periods.

Silent Snipers & Khrysis: Perfect Time - EP (Hip-Hop)

Silent Snipers team up with Jamla’s Khrysis to deliver a short EP, Perfect Time, featuring The Musalini.

Swavay: Billy - EP (R&B)

Demonstrating remarkable versatility, Swavay not only showcases his rapping skills but also pours his soul into singing, creating an enchanting blend of hip-hop and R&B that has been mesmerizing his versatility. Anticipation grows as he releases a new EP called Billy, promising a collection you will want to look into.

Lekan: So You Know - EP (R&B)

Lekan’s commanding presence in his music sets the stage, while his smooth baritone voice conveys messages brimming with emotion and affection. His calming and welcoming music is anchored on So You Know, yet it also ventures into various eras and genres, seamlessly blending elements of soul, pop, and trap to craft his distinctive sound.

Victor Ray: I Tried - EP (R&B)

Emerging talent Victor Ray has unveiled his latest EP, I Tried. This collection marks a significant chapter for the artist, whose recent performances have been turning heads. The EP showcases his journey toward maturity, tying together a variety of musical influences. This R&B artist isn’t afraid to engage in self-reflection, posing profound questions that strike a chord with listeners everywhere.

Jessica Wilde: Teach Me How to Love (R&B)

Last week marked the debut of Jessica Wilde's sophomore album, Teach Me How to Love. This unique body of work reflects her diverse taste, blending elements from rap to heartfelt acoustic tunes and much more.

Geoffroy: Good Boy (Alternative)

Geoffroy came into the scene as a vital and progressive figure in Canadian music. With three LPs already under his belt, he has firmly established himself as one of Quebec’s premier artists. Hailing from Montreal, this songwriter and producer is poised to take an international leap with the release of his fourth full-length album, Good Boy. Nearly a decade after his initial release, this new project represents Geoffroy’s quest to create his most genuine work yet. The album brilliantly combines live instrumentation with electronic touches, resulting in a vibrant soundscape. This diverse assembly of tracks moves past the introspective depth of his recent projects, offering a brighter and more varied auditory experience.

Staples Jr. Singers: Searching (Gospel/Soul)

Now and then, a true gem from the past is brought back into the limelight. But how often does such a revival occur while the original band is still active? That’s exactly what’s fascinating about the Staples Jr. Singers and their eagerly anticipated second album, Searching. You probably recognize the Staples Jr. Singers—the family group hailing from Aberdeen, Mississippi—from their debut and sole album, When Do We Get Paid, initially self-recorded in 1975 and reissued by Luaka Bop in 2022. They crafted that album in their teenage years. At long last, in a moment they have eagerly awaited for most of their lives, they are returning with their much-anticipated follow-up album.

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