Old favorites with a new life
You’ve probably had a listening phase with at least one of these artists. It’s time to dig that fervor back out with these new releases.
Local
Thin Truk, Mongo Burger, NIGHTMARE
Does Missoula’s hip hop darling ever sleep? “Mongo Burger” and “NIGHTMARE” were released two days apart, and you can color us impressed. None of Thin Truk’s beats sound redundant, despite the number of tracks. Plus, proceeds from “Mongo Burger” are going to bail funds. It’s everything we’ve ever dreamed of.
New Albums
Teyana Taylor, The Album
Teyana Taylor’s Juneteenth record utilizes the singer’s strengths while bringing in superstar collaborators (we’re looking at you, Missy Elliot). These extra artists bring strength to a record that doesn’t really need them, but the surprise of hearing icons makes it worth it.
Neil Young, Homegrown
This long-lost album is a joy to listen to. It’s breezier than some of Neil Young’s other records, even though it was recorded after a breakup in the 1970s. It’s deeply personal without feeling voyeuristic. Despite Young’s age difference between when this was recorded and when it was released, “Homegrown” sounds like it could have been written yesterday.
Orlando Weeks, A Quickening
This record, with its softness, vulnerability, and fear, reminds listeners of why we try to create a better world. This record is all-at-once about fatherhood and the way the world changes around us as we sit still. Dreamy vocals float over intuitive beats and gentle instrumentals.
Bob Dylan, Rough and Rowdy Ways
Although this new Bob Dylan record isn’t what we expected, it’s not bad. We get all the phases of Bob Dylan, though their largest one seems to be under-the-surface references to his spirituality. Bob Dylan is still making music that sounds like tires going over gravel at sunset, in a good way.
Phoebe Bridgers, Punisher
If you’re someone who listens to sad music when you’re already sad so you feel sadder, “Punisher” is for you. No one can accuse Phoebe Bridgers of not having depth or being one-note after listening to this record. Listening tip: only listen to this if you’re ready to sit in a state of almost crying for 40 minutes.
New Singles
Victoria Monet, Khalid, SG Lewis, Experience
Summer loving gets an update with “Experience.” This track is, for lack of a better word, a vibe. Disco-type effects and bluesy influences are as big a part of the track as Victoria Monet and Khalid’s voices. This is one of those tracks where every part is the star.
Lexi Scatena, Just A Phase
Smooth vocals combine with a sorta-sad-girl-aura to produce a track that has BIG rainy day energy. Lexi Scatena’s voice floats over R&B production and layered harmonies as “Just A Phase” mellows listeners out.
DaBaby and Roddy Ricch, Rockstar (BLM Remix)
DaBaby remixes his hit “Rockstar” to further reflect his experience as a Black man in America, including being racially profiled by police. DaBaby is a hitmaker, and it’s reflected in what he’s done to keep the ups of “Rockstar” while adding verses that matter.
Noname, Song 33
Noname comes up with a diss track that doesn’t feel petty on “Song 33.” Noname references rapper J. Cole’s track that negative comments about her involvement in politics while lifting up the names of Oluwatoyin “Toyin” Salau and George Floyd.
Assembled by music director Meghan Jonas