Meshell Ndegeocello’s latest album, “The Omnichord Real Book,” showcases a constantly evolving collection of songs. In the track “ASR,” which spans over seven minutes, elements of fusion jazz, Funkadelic, Ethiopian pop, reggae, and psychedelia intertwine, guided by the skillful guitar work of Jeff Parker from Tortoise. As the song progresses, Ndegeocello’s captivating vocals touch on themes of pain, heartbreak, healing, and perseverance, declaring, “We’re here to set the clock to here and now.”
Peggy Gou, a South Korean-born, Berlin-based DJ and producer, presents her latest single “(It Goes Like) Nanana,” which exudes dreamy house beats accompanied by her velvety touch. The track carries a reminiscent vibe of ATC’s popular 2000 hit “All Around the World,” but with Gou’s unique kinetic energy. As she sings, “I can’t explain,” over an energetic beat and light piano melody, Gou finds solace in expressing her feelings through nonsensical words, proclaiming, “I guess it goes like na na na na na na.”
Doja Cat’s return is marked by the menacing and assertive track “Attention,” showcasing her prowess as an MC. Deviating from her usual pop sensibilities, Doja Cat commands attention with her charismatic grit. The song’s chorus, reminiscent of ’90s R&B, engages listeners with the catchy line, “Baby, if you like it, just reach out and pet it.” However, the verses take a venomous turn as she addresses conflicts with others, boldly stating, “Y’all fall into beef, but that’s another conversation. I’m sorry, but we all find it really entertaining.”
Killer Mike’s “Scientists & Engineers” from his solo album “Michael,” features notable producers including James Blake and No I.D. The track explores ambition and achievement, juxtaposing electronics with exaltation. Outkast’s André 3000 delivers elusive verses, expressing his belief that “rebelling is like an itch.” Future’s silky vocals juxtapose with trap drums and blipping synthesizers, emphasizing the theme of being an outcast in an envious world. Killer Mike enters with a boastful flow, stating, “I’m never chillin’, I gotta make millions,” while Eryn Allen Kane’s melodic harmonies soar in the background, proclaiming, “I’mma live forever,” as the rappers redefine themselves.
Fiona Apple collaborates with Nashville avant-pop group Flesh Eater on the mercurial seven-minute track “Komfortzone.” Over a low, sputtering programmed beat and bursts of noise and electronics, Flesh Eater’s lead singer, Zwil AR, delivers hopscotching melodies akin to Dirty Projectors. Fiona Apple adds her own touch with sprinkles of piano and vocal harmonies, painting a vivid picture with refrains like “A field of sunflowers with their backs toward me; I’m on the train.” The song remains intentionally artistic and willful.
“Evening Star Supercharger” by Sparklehorse is a posthumous release, completed by Mark Linkous’ family and collaborators. The song combines unhurried folk-rock with the delicate sound of a toy piano. Linkous reflects on mortality and depression while observing a star’s dying process in a calm manner. Even in its bleakness, the track maintains a sense of beauty and intrigue.
Nigerian singer Omah Lay explores both partying and self-doubt in his songs, with his collaboration with Justin Bieber garnering attention. “Reason,” featured on the expanded version of his album “Boy Alone,” incorporates minor chords and grim scenarios. The buoyant beat contrasts with the fraught tone as Omah Lay expresses uncertainty and the weight of the world, singing, “I don’t know who to run to right now; Army is opening heavy fire.”
Cuban-born pianist, composer, and folklorist David Virelles ventures into new territory with his album “Carta.” The track “Uncommon Sense” sees Virelles in a standard jazz trio format. As the piano solo leads into the song, Eric McPherson’s shuffle beat kicks in, creating tension as Virelles explores different keys. McPherson’s innovative drumming style provides solid support while Virelles experiments with contemporary influences, resulting in a blend of past and present jazz elements.
Bandleader Ben van Gelder’s album “Manifold” celebrates the voice in its various forms. The saxophone, pipe organ, human voice, and the collective voice of an eight-piece band all contribute their unique qualities. Drawing inspiration from contemporary classical composers like Arvo Pärt and György Ligeti, van Gelder’s music incorporates dissonance and space. On the track “Spectrum,” vocalist Fuensanta joins the horns, seamlessly blending in as another melodic instrument. Kit Downes adds depth and texture with his manipulation of the pipe organ.
Elliott Sharp, a composer known for his innovative approach to pitch and structure, presents “Rosette” from his album “Steppe.” This piece explores texture and resonance, with six overdubbed vintage electric steel guitars creating quick, cascading runs. The composition is simultaneously bell-toned and spiky, crumbling and reassembling, showcasing Sharp’s unique style.
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