2023 Album Roundup: May

If you're looking for some great tracks to add to your playlist, rejoice, because May 2023 turned out to be an incredible month for album releases. In this piece, we're about to break down our top picks of the month, sharing the nitty-gritty details on why these albums deserve a spot in your ears. Get ready to discover the musical highlights that made May 2023 one for the books.

KAYTRAMINÉ - KAYTRAMINÉ

Imagine the feeling of sunshine warming your skin, the scent of saltwater in the air, and the rhythm of your feet beating against the pavement. Now, take that feeling and translate it into music. That's KAYTRAMINÉ, a sonic kaleidoscope that explodes with the vibrant energy of a perfect summer day. This collaboration between Kaytranada and Aminé packs a punch across genres, leaving traditional boundaries gasping for air, blending hip-hop, R&B silk, and funky grooves, all seasoned with electronic beats that dance on the edge of the future.

Kaytranada's production is a masterclass in layering, meticulously building tracks with vintage whispers and modern fire, crafting sonic landscapes that feel both nostalgic and fresh. Aminé, a lyrical chameleon, spits rhymes smooth as velvet and punches lines sharp enough to etch diamonds. One moment he's boasting like a kingpin on "letstalkaboutit," the next he's laying down introspective bars on "Rebuke."

The Duo's musical chemistry serves as the adhesive holding this entire project together. Tracks like "FUBU" resonate with an Outkast-inspired vibe, while "4EVA" delves into the realm of late-night R&B, with Pharrell's vocals smoothly gliding over the top. It's a genre-hopping buffet, and Kaytranada and Aminé showcase their prowess as skilled conductors orchestrating this diverse musical symphony.

Forget your algorithmic playlists and pre-conceived notions. KAYTRAMINÉ is a mind-bending adventure, a musical passport to a world where boundaries are suggestions and innovation is the name of the game. It might leave you slightly in awe by the time the final track fades, wondering how they crammed so much musical magic into just 11 songs. But one thing's for sure: you'll hit repeat before you even catch your breath.

In simpler terms: KAYTRAMINÉ is fire. It's a genre-bending party, and every music lover's invited. Ditch the predictable and jump in. You won't regret it.

Kesha - Gag Order

Now I know calling albums an experience has become a bit of a cliche, but Gag Order truly fits that bill. Forget dissecting it track by track; it's a symphony, an immersive encounter that demands to be embraced in its entirety. The album unfolds as a cohesive sonic journey, placing a premium on immersion and emotional depth. It seems as though every moment, sound design choice, and vocal inflection has been meticulously crafted to weave a tapestry of raw vulnerability and defiant resilience.

Delving into the aftermath of Kesha's legal battle with her former producer, Dr. Luke, the album's title, "Gag Order," itself becomes a powerful statement symbolizing the silencing and control she endured for years. However, Kesha refuses to be silenced any longer.

In a departure from the typical lead single strategy, Gag Order, while featuring a standout single in "Eat The Acid," makes no compromises for radio play or easy chart success. The sonic consistency prevails throughout, with each song seamlessly flowing into the next, akin to a folk message whispered through generations. The stripped-bare and organic production eschews conventional pop constructs, leaving ample space for Kesha's raw emotions to take center stage.

This album boldly gives a middle finger to expectations, prioritizing truth over commercial success. Gag Order is an assertion of speaking one's truth, no matter how raw or uncomfortable, and embracing the power of vulnerability. It underlines the transformative capability of music, illustrating how it can stitch together the broken pieces of our stories into a cohesive and powerful whole.

Not tailored for the faint of heart, Gag Order offers a challenging listen, inviting listeners on a journey into the depths of human emotion. Yet, for those willing to surrender and let the music wash over them, the experience promises transformation. Gag Order emerges as more than just an album; it stands as an immersive testament to the enduring power of music to heal, liberate, and remind us that even in the darkest times, there is always a light to be found.

IDK - F65

Buckle up, music lovers, because IDK's new album, F65, is taking you on a wild ride across genres, fueled by his boundless creativity and love for all things Black. It's like that feeling when you're blasting down the highway, windows down, hair whipping in the wind – exhilarating, unpredictable, and oh-so-satisfying. Think of it as the sequel to his 2022, Simple. This time, IDK expands his sonic toolbox (and track length), throwing in funky jazz chords alongside his usual hip-hop beats. It's like he invited Miles Davis to a trap party, and the result is pure fire. Just imagine the smoky cool of "Champs-Élysées" melting into the head-bobbing groove of "Télé Couleur." Genre boundaries? What boundaries?

Speaking of fast, the whole album is themed around Formula 1 racing. But here's the twist: IDK uses F65 as a canvas to paint a vibrant picture of his Black identity. He dips his toes in every pool of Black music imaginable, from Afrobeats to Jersey club, even sprinkling in samples of classics like Michael Jackson's "Can't Help It." It's like a musical history lesson, reminding us of the power and diversity of Black voices. Sure, F65 might be a bit long – 22 tracks, no joke – but each one feels like a genuine adventure. It's like IDK's inviting you to hop on his mental rollercoaster, hurtling through self-doubt, ambition, and love for the craft. It's a journey with ups and downs, smooth corners and sharp turns, but you'll be grinning like a fool by the end of it.

So, if you're looking for an album that's gonna challenge your ears, touch your soul, and maybe even make you learn a thing or two about Black music, F65 is your jam. It's IDK at his best, pushing boundaries and proving that hip-hop ain't just about beats and rhymes, it's about the whole black experience. Crank it up, let it wash over you, and prepare to be amazed.

Armani White - Road to CASABLANCO.

Armani White's EP, Road to Casablanco, is like a sweet escape to summer. This 9-track collection is a mix of classic hip-hop production with modern pop sensibilities, creating a sound that's as refreshing as sipping on a piña colada on the beach during a warm summer’s day. White commands attention with his sharp lyricism on tracks like "GOATED" and "BIG BET," his delivery polished and confident like a seasoned veteran.  But the EP isn't just about flexing; it dives into his vulnerable side too, especially on "PROUD OF YOU." And his flow? It's like he effortlessly glides through the diverse sounds in each track.

Sure, hits like "BILLIE EILISH" and "GOATED" put him on the map, but Road to Casablanco proves he's more than just catchy tunes. If you've been following Armani White from his Philly days, you know he's got strong songwriting and deep lyrical chops. Tracks like "No Mistakes" and "Rob Your Ex" showcase his ability to create dynamic vibes without relying on big features or viral beats. What's cool is that this EP has something for everyone. If you're into thoughtful lyrics, he's got you covered. If you're more about upbeat anthems, those are in there too. And the collabs? Denzel Curry, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, and Fivio Foreign bring unexpected twists, while N.O.R.E.'s appearance on the "Billie Eilish Legends Mix" feels like passing the torch from one hip-hop legend to a rising star.

Road to Casablanco ends up playing out like a short summer vacation for your ears. Picture blasting it with the windows down and sharing the vibe with your crew. Armani White's talent and charisma on full display here are a clear sign he's headed towards something truly special in the music scene.

(G)-IDLE - I feel

In an era where K-pop is claiming a significant chunk of the music industry, (G)-IDLE consistently stands out as a group to watch. Their latest Korean EP, I Feel, not only solidifies their position but propels them into new heights of creative exploration.

The lead single, "Queencard," is like this burst of confident fun. Those glittering synths, the sassy raps, and the cheeky lyrics are classic (G)-IDLE. And in a world where K-pop is evolving like crazy, they're standing out by pushing boundaries and trying new sounds. It's refreshing, you know?

The pre-release single, "Allergy," delves into a sultry R&B groove, showcasing the group's vocal prowess and lyrical depth. (G)-IDLE's ability to seamlessly navigate through various genres not only speaks to their versatility but also reinforces their status as a standout force in the dynamic world of K-pop.

I feel presents a diverse collection of tracks, each with a distinct identity that showcases the members' songwriting talents leading to a musical journey that mirrors (G)-IDLE's growth and fearless creativity. As K-pop continues to captivate global audiences, (G)-IDLE emerges as a group that not only follows trends but sets them.

In an industry where innovation is key, (G)-IDLE's I feel solidifies their standing as one of the most exciting and influential acts to emerge from the K-pop scene. With a willingness to experiment, a commitment to artistic evolution, and an undeniable flair for delivering compelling music, (G)-IDLE stands at the forefront of K-pop's evolution, leaving us eager to see what groundbreaking moves they'll make next.

These are just a few of the May releases that have captured our attention and earned a spot on our regular playlist. I'm excited to hear what other albums were the soundtrack for your year. Share your favorites in the comments below, and continue the conversation.