Top Releases of the Week (8/8) – BrooklynVegan
What a whirlwind of activity in the music world this week! From Twitter drama involving Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros to discussions on the resurgence of rock music, the scene has been buzzing with excitement. Throw in the news of Algernon Cadwallader’s upcoming album after a 14-year hiatus, and music lovers have had plenty to digest.
As for new releases hitting shelves, there are some notable gems to check out. Bill covers four albums in Indie Basement, including No Joy, OSEES, Wombo, and For Those I Love. Also, Phil Elverum & Arrington de Dionyso, The Black Keys, Babymetal, Big Freedia, and Anamanaguchi’s debut rock album are among this week’s highlights. The diverse range of music available includes Machine Gun Kelly, Good Charlotte, Young Nudy, Mozzy, and many more, offering something for every taste.
Among the standout releases of the week is Blackbraid’s “Blackbraid III.” Representing the sounds of the Adirondack Mountains, this indigenous artist delivers an intense blend of melodic black metal on this third LP in four years. The album opens with the evocative track “Dusk (Eulogy),” setting a vivid scene of the sun setting over the mountains. The lead single, “Wardrums at Dawn on the Day of my Death,” showcases Blackbraid’s ferocious yet melodious black metal style, followed by a journey through towering compositions interspersed with acoustic interludes and hypnotic flute motifs.
Ethel Cain’s latest album, “Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You,” marks a shift for the alt-pop artist who gained fame with her debut album “Preacher’s Daughter” in 2022. Known for her outspoken nature, Cain takes a unique approach to her music. Her previous ambient/drone-inspired album, “Perverts,” served as a precursor to her sophomore release, striking a balance between experimentation and accessibility. Drawing influences from a range of artists, Cain’s music is a blend of goth, ambient pop, and dramatic storytelling that sets her apart in the music landscape.
Atlanta rapper JID makes a grand return with “God Does Like Ugly,” his first album in three years. Known for his intricate lyricism and storytelling, JID crafts a concept album that showcases his love for the art of rap. With a star-studded lineup of features including Clipse, Westside Gunn, Vince Staples, and Ciara, among others, the album is a testament to JID’s ambition and talent. Blending elements of trap, boom bap, and soul, JID’s album is a sonic journey that aims for greatness.
In a week filled with exciting music releases, these albums stand out for their innovation, creativity, and raw talent. Whether you’re a fan of black metal, alt-pop, or rap, there’s something for everyone in this diverse array of new music. Which release will be your favorite of the week?