album reviews
Reviews of albums old and new from iconic artists and up and coming musicians alike.
Harry Styles: Fine Line & Why It Impacted My Life.
I still remember listening to Fine Line for the first time, lying in my bed with my eyes closed as the first notes of Golden started to play ... my whole face lighting up as it really did feel Golden. The "da da da's" filling my chest with warmth, as I bent over my laptop screen, religiously going back and forth with the lyrics, trying to understand -- trying to connect even just a little bit.
meg ivy brunningPublished 3 years ago in BeatBecause The Internet: A Compilation of Genius
Donald Glover’s (formerly known as Childish Gambino with the release of his last album) artistic reach has extended beyond just music. This actor/producer/director/musician hybrid has created enticing work in every field he has worked in. For example, hit TV show Atlanta, which is recording its next two seasons as I write this. Because the Internet is (probably; definitely in my opinion) Glover’s best work musically as it has been critically acclaimed by many music critics.
Josh HerringPublished 3 years ago in BeatA Freudian Love Story
Daniel Caesar is the epitome of “baby-making” music. Every song is a reminder of the unrequited love we all ultimately seek in our plight for “the one”. In his debut album Freudian, Caesar created one of the best love albums I’ve ever heard and continue to be enamored by. Read further to see how this album turned out to be a classic in the modern soul/R&B genre.
Josh HerringPublished 3 years ago in BeatBuy Your Ticket to Kissland: An Euphoric Ride
From here, you are entering Kissland, an album filled to the brim with excitement and amusement (like a theme park) combined with a sense of 80’s euphoria. In the debut studio album by The Weeknd, we travel through the psyche of drug riddled lover along with a paid dancer/prostitute as they acid trip their way through love and sex. Set to the dystopian tune of Blade Runner, the pop superstar keeps us on our toes the entire way. Keep your hands and feet inside at all times and enjoy the read!
Josh HerringPublished 3 years ago in BeatWelcome to CROOKLAND
Consider this an exclusive look at the newest album by up-and-coming artists Tireek and Lonely Leonard. In Modern Music Analysis first collaboration with an artist, we break down CROOKLAND — an album that tackles the heaviest and, unfortunately, common topics among black America.
Josh HerringPublished 3 years ago in BeatCordae: The Lost Boy Is Found
In staunch opposition to his peers, Cordae skillfully showcases his lyricism and rapping repertoire in his debut album, The Lost Boy. He looks to be the kind of artist that will set himself apart in his generation much like J.Cole and Kendrick Lamar did. Despite having to leave his former label and name sake, YBN, it was absolutely the best choice, as Cordae is lightyears ahead in skill of anyone else affiliated with YBN. From here, we discover who Cordae is and why he is here to stay.
Josh HerringPublished 3 years ago in BeatSonder Son: An Analysis
Brent Faiyaz, a multi-genre blending phenom, has dropped a classic in his first studio album. How many artist can you say that for? Faiyaz blends beautiful melody, harmonies, and vocals with simple (but addicting) beats and production that creates a minimalist’s dream. While singing about his origins, the artist creates an album with no skips — every song is close to a 10 and vital in creating the narrative of the album.
Josh HerringPublished 3 years ago in BeatUnderstanding Kids on Drugs
As mentioned on the vinyl cover of the album, this selection is in no way meant to promote the consumption of alcohol and/or drugs. The concept of this album is the examination of coping mechanisms such as drugs, alcohol, and lust. At the same time, Cole examines larger societal issues including social media, taxes, love, and most the obvious — drugs. From here, we examine these themes in Cole’s penultimate album.
Josh HerringPublished 3 years ago in BeatLimbo: A Review
Limbo, was admittedly, my first in-depth introduction to Aminé. We’ve all heard the radio hits like “Caroline”, but this was the first project of his that I’ve indulged in. From here, we review the sophomore album from the Portland native.
Josh HerringPublished 3 years ago in BeatERRA: Album Review
It may only be June, but I’m already declaring Erra’s new self-titled album as the album of the year. Released on March 19th, this is their 5th full-length studio album, and their first album under their new label, UNFD. And it’s arguably their best one yet. This album is powerful, and it hits hard in the best possible way. Everything about it, from the vocals, to the guitar work, to the songwriting, is next level. It’s clear that everyone involved gave it their all, because the authenticity is strong with this one.
Jaye Ruggiero-CashPublished 3 years ago in BeatOne Touch: the album that stood the test of time
One Touch (2000) Line-up: Mutya Buena, Keisha Buchanan & Siobhan Donaghy Label: London Records Singles: Overload, New Year, Run For Cover & Soul Sound
Chloe GilholyPublished 3 years ago in BeatA Musical Journey Into The Past
The start of any new project marks the start of a new life. And the start of the album 'Lost and Found' was, recorded between 2015 and 2018 in the United Kingdom, was certainly a purging experience. It's a semi- biographical collection of songs which spans my early years as a child right up to the present day.
Adam EvansonPublished 3 years ago in Beat