In an effort to keep things fresh here, I’ll be listing new releases to buy or enjoy on the music service of your choice (Rdio, Spotify, etc).
Albert Hammond Jr. – AHJ
Albert Hammond Jr. continues to showcase his own talent as an individual musician/writer. This is just an EP but fans should be pleased to hear this production doesn’t deviate too much from Yours to Keep and Como Te Llama.
Dale Earnheardt Jr. Jr. – The Speed of Things
I only recently learned about Dale Earnheardt Jr. Jr. but recommend this album for those trying to relax or drive to the tune their dreamy sound.
The Fratellis – We Need Medicine
The Fratellis have been gone for awhile but haven’t lost their way. I wasn’t able to find a track that reminded me of
Icona Pop – This Is… Icona Pop
Remember when we saw Hannah dancing to “I Love It”? It’s truly fascinating that 2Pac’s “Girlfriend” was given an Icona Pop rendition.
Miley Cyrus – Bangerz (Deluxe Edition)
Miley brought twerking to the mainstream and now her new album is out. Be sure to turn your system way up for these bass thumping tracks (or your headphones down before indulging in a personal consumption experience). Most of the tracks are produced by Mike Will Made-It (We Can’t Stop), so if you enjoyed that track, you’ll probably enjoy the album.
She recently showed off her comic chops on Saturday Night Live. Do check that episode out if you haven’t.
Panic at the Disco – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die!
Panic at the Disco releases their second album since the departure of Jon Walker and Ryan Ross. Check out the Las Vegas band’s effort as they expand their arsenal of synthetic sounds. The general sound of the album is eclectic: some of the tracks like Girls/Girls/Boys and Nicotine have the sound of past decades, while others like Far Too Young to Die have the stamp of an electronic future.
The End Of All Things finishes the album. While it initially plays like a ballad, one can’t help but wonder if the Imogen Heap “Head and Seek” autotune was necessary.
Pusha T – My Name Is My Name
Clipse’s Pusha T hooks up with Kanye West production for a valiant debut album. His hungry lyrics combined with Kanye’s conceptual artistic style is a noteworthy effort for fans of this genre.
Check out Let Me Love You. Doesn’t Pusha T sound just like Mase?
Sleigh Bells – Bitter Rivals
Curious how loud your headphones/speakers can go? Check this album out. This release probably should have came out at the start of summer, but really, each track could probably work well in your workout mix every day of the year.
Noteworthy tracks: You Don’t Get Me Twice, To Hell with You, 24