October has been a pretty great month for new releases so far. Here are some of my favorites that may be worth your time.
Mobb Deep – Infinite
The infamous, pioneering hip-hop duo return for one of their most thorough and intricate outings since their glory days.
While it’s their first album since Prodigy’s sudden passing in 2017, Havoc, working with frequent collaborator and legendary producer The Alchemist, really took their time to perfect and shape this record to make it a defining work of Mobb Deep’s later career.
These old, reworked verses show that Prodigy still had a lot to say and shine a light on his true influence and legacy throughout the hip-hop landscape.
A thoughtful and confident record that’s a must-listen for any hip-hop head.
8.1/10
Sudan Archives – The BPM
Art pop diva Sudan Archives continues to carve her own unique lane with possibly her best and most cohesive effort yet.
The BPM mixes everything from pop, R&B, hip-hop, EDM, and more to create a fruitful and invigorating experience, along with some fantastic vocals and sticky melodies for good measure.
It’s truly unlike anything I’ve heard this year. Even if you don’t click with the whole thing, you’re bound to find a song you like.
8.6/10
The Last Dinner Party – From the Pyre
Glam rock is alive and well with one of the most promising girl groups of the past few years.
From the Pyre continues the band’s streak, but with even more fiery performances and spacious, gritty production. The theatrics are all on full display.
While I was a little late to The Last Dinner Party, I’m glad I finally arrived.
8.3/10
Tame Impala – Deadbeat
Kevin Parker’s return as the one-man band, Tame Impala, was a highly anticipated release for many this year, myself included. However, I’m disappointed to report that the wait wasn’t really worth it.
While Deadbeat starts quite strong, it soon ventures into a monotonous, uninspired hole of soulless electronic detours and rather cringey songwriting.
I do respect Parker for continuing to experiment with his sound, but his past works have been much more interesting, rewarding, and gratifying than this.
If anything, I would re-listen to 2020’s The Slow Rush before tackling this, as I’ve always felt it to be Parker’s most underrated record and has aged surprisingly well. Maybe I’ll warm up to Deadbeat one day, but I can’t say for sure.
6.8/10
For more of my thoughts on this one, check out my Tame-centric podcast episode here: Recorded Memories 4 – Spotify / Substack
Not for Radio – Melt
The Marías frontwoman, María Zardoya, returns with a new solo project and pseudonym, Not for Radio. Though the name may be misleading.
While Melt can definitely be more calming and hypnotizing in comparison to some of The Marías’ more fun, pop-leaning cuts, it’s also still a sound you may come to expect from Zardoya.
Yet, the album is still full of lush production and intriguing songwriting, easily making for one of the most soothing listening experiences of the year so far.
7.9/10
PARTYOF2 – AMERIKA’S NEXT TOP PARTY!
Beloved hip-hop duo SWIM and Jadagrace are back and as thrilling as ever.
After a whirlwind of a year and a half, PARTYOF2 is letting you know that they’re here to stay.
AMERIKA’S NEXT TOP PARTY! makes that abundantly clear with boom-bap bangers, club anthems, and angelic, introspective moments. A pop-rap parade you won’t want to miss.
8.1/10
