Posted in: Articles | Playlists
Our top picks of the latest albums to listen to every month, from pop to rap to rock. Our top choices this month will be a great addition to anyone’s record collection.
We have picked out our favourite songs from the albums below. Check out our February Songs of the Month playlist.
What Now
Brittany Howard | Brittany Howard PS - Island
Following her debut album, American musician Brittany Howard introduces What Now. Inspired by Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder, Howard found herself slowly putting together her second solo album during the pandemic. Howard said “at the time, I didn’t know I was writing an album. I just needed an outlet and I just needed a way to get all these feelings out”. A true virtuoso, Howard wonderfully traverses genres, with a mix of soul, R&B, and metal. Utterly joyful, Howard dazzles and doesn’t put a foot wrong.
Listen on: Spotify Tidal Apple Music Qobuz
Hole In My Head
Laura Jane Grace | Polyvinyl
On her second studio album, American musician Laura Jane Grace writes a bold new chapter. As one of the 21st century’s most prominent voices of Punk rock, Grace opts for a folk-punk style on Hole In My Head. Discussing whether punk is dead, Grace says “At its best, punk is rad people doing radical things, and that’s when punk can become a revolutionary force. It's self-determined.” Across eleven brisk, but emotionally gripping tracks, Grace plays guitar and drums, and gives us a deeper look into her fascinating journey.
Listen on: Spotify Tidal Apple Music Qobuz
What Happened to the Beach?
Declan McKenna | Columbia
English singer-songwriter Declan McKenna introduces the unique What Happened to the Beach?. Inspired by Unknown Mortal Orchestra and St. Vincent, it’s a stylistic departure from his previous album Zeroes. Talking about the creative process, McKenna said “I was putting a lot of pressure on myself in the past when I just needed to drop the intensity a bit and have some fun”. Creative and incredibly bright, McKenna feels free on his third studio album, which is unmistakable and stunningly ambitious.
Listen on: Spotify Tidal Apple Music Qobuz
Prelude To Ecstasy
The Last Dinner Party | Universal-Island Records Ltd.
British indie rock band the Last Dinner Party are razor-sharp on their epic debut album, Prelude To Ecstasy. With their distinct sound and style, the quintet from London are a well oiled machine, delivering infectious melodies and exciting orchestral arrangements. Recipients of both the Brits Rising Star and the BBC Sound of 2024 awards, their debut record is well crafted and produced, captivating from start to finish. Judging from this, fans will be thrilled to find out what’s next.
Listen on: Spotify Tidal Apple Music Qobuz
Compassion
Vijay Iyer, Linda May Han Oh & Tyshawn Sorey | ECM Records
Following on from 2021’s Uneasy, the Vijay Iyer Trio return for their highly anticipated album Compassion. All accomplished composers, pianist Vijay Iyer, bassist Linda May Han Oh, and drummer Tyshawn Sorey work together in perfect unity. Following their album release, they sold out a five-night residency at New York’s Village Vanguard. Making music with Linda and Tyshawn revealed to Iyer that "even the unity of consciousness is an illusion". Agile, exhilarating and delicate, it’s an irresistible listen.
Listen on: Spotify Tidal Apple Music Qobuz
Check out more of our favourites
