Kait Connaughton – Beach House – Bloom
[itunes link=”https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/myth/id509665145?uo=4″ title=”Itunes”]
By no means is Bloom a new release, but it is by far one of my most listened to albums in recent memory. Boasting the emerging ethereal/dream pop genre, Baltimore’s very own Beach House transcend the musical experience via their use of synthesized instruments and deep, emotion-fueled, whispering female vocals. Pick up this album and change your music listening experience; you won’t regret it.
Brandon Newby – Vic Mensa– INNANETAPE
20 year old Chicago native, Vic Mensa, has been making the “innanet” go crazy ever since he took on his solo hip-hop career after his band, Kids These Days, disbanded early last year. His sophomore release is a refreshing take on hip-hop as he takes his unique flow and weaves it with the beat which makes it seem like he’s been at this for much longer than he’s been alive for. If you’re a hip-hop head like I am, you need to take a listen to/download INNANETAPE.
Billy Dries – Blood Orange – Cupid Deluxe
[itunes link=”https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/youre-not-good-enough/id716767448?uo=4″ title=”Itunes”]
Blood Orange is a genius. His debut LP Costal Grooves had me turnt up over a year ago, and with his sophomore release, Cupid Deluxe, he delivered a perfect balance of Chillwave, R&B, and Soft Rock. The album flows like melted butter and just makes you want to get up and dance. With upbeat percussion and guitar riffs Blood Orange gets you on your feet just in time to hear his true to life, beautiful, and melancholy lyrics. The album can make you laugh, cry, dance, and everything in between, so give it a listen!
Phil Dayao – Daft Punk – Random Access Memories
[itunes link=”https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/get-lucky-feat.-pharrell-williams/id617154241?uo=4″ title=”Itunes”]
The iconic OG’s of electronic music, Daft Punk, are back with their fourth studio album Random Access Memories and I can honestly say that I think this is the album of the year. This album has all types of tracks, from slow jams, to funky disco grooves, and everything in between. Daft Punk really did an outstanding job on this album, and it definitely gives the listener a break from the current condition of electronic music, and the whole “EDM” scene.
Joelle Hernendez – Sevyn Streeter – Call Me Crazy, But…
[itunes link=”https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/it-wont-stop-feat.-chris-brown/id733143718?uo=4″ title=”Itunes”]
This album is fire! Sevyn Streeter is a new R&B/ Pop artist. She is the combination of Rihanna and Kelly Rowlana…definitely a bad girl, but with great vocals! Her first single It Won’t Stop featuring Chris Brown is hitting the top of major music charts. Be sure to pre-order the album on iTunes or buy it on its release date December 3!
Joe Lomuti – Ray LaMontagne & Pariah Dogs – God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise
[itunes link=”https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/beg-steal-or-borrow/id381971352?uo=4″ title=”Itunes”]
The soulful voice of Ray LaMontagne is nothing less than an auditory phenomena. Joined with his Pariah Dogs, he skillfully weaves a sound rich with blues, folk, bluegrass, and most importantly heart. If you have never listened to ol’ Ray, this album is a great place to start. Perfect for a sleepy Sunday morning or quiet chill out sesh.
Kathleen McKeveny – Cass McCombs – Big Wheel And Others
[itunes link=”https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/there-can-be-only-one/id697177447?uo=4″ title=”Itunes”]
Cass McCombs is the divine amalgam of the creative contrariness of Tom Waits with the melodic inclinations and songwriting-savvy of Paul Simon. Think Ryan Adams soft-spoken alter-ego. That is a really bold comparison but I’ma make it anyway. Simply put, this album rocks and with 22 tracks, it’s likely there’s something for everyone. Yaaaarrrr \m/
Kat O’Brien – Karyn Oliver – Magdalene
[itunes link=”https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/magdalene/id649812382?uo=4″ title=”Itunes”]
My pick is the recently relocated to NYC, but formerly local artist Karyn Oliver. Her 2013 album, Magdalene, is perfect for any occasion when you just need to slow down, relax and enjoy some good tunes. She is also a WLOY alum, which is pretty cool.
