Music Reviews: IDK, Roc Marciano, Lucinda Williams and more artists reviewed
This week saw various exciting music releases, including the return of Arctic Monkeys after four years and album announcements from artists like Courtney Barnett, James Blake, and more. The A$AP Rocky album from the previous week was also discussed on a recent episode of BV Weekly, alongside Pitchfork’s new user reviews and other music news.
Among this week’s notable album releases, IDK’s “E.T.D.S.” stands out. The self-released mixtape features collaborations with artists like Pusha T, Black Thought, RZA, Madlib, Goldie, and more. IDK draws inspiration from ’90s and 2000s mixtape culture to shed light on America’s flawed criminal justice system. The mixtape, while ambitious, carries an immediacy reminiscent of past eras, with contributions from iconic figures like RZA, No I.D., and Madlib.
Roc Marciano’s “656” presents a self-produced album that showcases his unique style within the boom bap revival genre. Roc Marci’s haunting delivery pairs seamlessly with his devilish production, creating a transportive listening experience devoid of any distractions or fillers. The album stands out for its distinctiveness and immersive quality.
Alt-country veteran Lucinda Williams explores themes of a world in distress on her latest bluesy album, “World’s Gone Wrong.” The melancholic record reflects on the current state of affairs, offering a somber perspective on societal issues. Williams’ emotive vocals and introspective lyrics resonate deeply with the listener, capturing the heaviness of the times. The album also features a poignant cover of Bob Marley’s “So Much Trouble in the World,” with a powerful guest appearance from Mavis Staples.
Overall, this week’s music releases offer a diverse array of sounds and themes, from the gritty realism of IDK’s mixtape to the haunting production of Roc Marciano and the introspective blues of Lucinda Williams. Each album provides a unique listening experience that resonates with the current social landscape, showcasing the depth and creativity of contemporary music in 2026.