The best new music from the week of August 7th!
It’s New Music Friday! Contrary to expectations, this New Music Friday has been filled with some surprise drops from our beloved favs. Taking that into consideration, there’s certainly something for everyone to enjoy making this a weekly roundup you don’t want to miss out on. This week’s edition features standout releases from Lil Uzi Vert, Beyoncé/JAY-Z, and Brent Faiyaz.
New Music Friday Picks
Lil Uzi Vert – ‘Maverick “Almost Forever”’ (EP)
Based on the evidence and one initial listen, it’s safe to say Uzi has returned to form. Most importantly, he sounds confident again and is back to having fun with his music like the old days. Under this framework, we get a taste of every Uzi era and each song never outstays it’s welcome.
Brent Faiyaz – ‘Icon’ (Deluxe Album)
On account of this being the “director’s cut,” you can expect that Brent brought out his most cinematic songs yet. In practical reality, he could’ve originally released them, but as you listen it’ll instantly make sense why he didn’t as they can stand on their own. Upon closer review of his subject matter, it definitely feels like we are on the brink of a new era for Brent.
Pooh Shiesty – ‘All Eyes on Shiest’ (Album)
As it stands, it’s been a while since we’ve had a rapper who truly embodies all of their lyrics on the level of Pooh Shiesty. To put this into perspective, every track of ‘All Eyes on Shiest’ is an explicit yet vivid observation of his reckless lifestyle, while once again displaying pure lyricism. Taking that into consideration, it’s rather tragic that someone so young and talented most likely just put out their last project for the foreseeable future.
FLO – ‘THERAPY AT THE CLUB’ (Album)
Without a doubt, we haven’t had an impactful female R&B group since Destiny Child’s, and FLO has finally come to reclaim that title with their new album. In support of this view, this feels like a breakthrough album in how they delivered utilizing their incredible voices to full capacity. In a broader sense, if you want to forecast what the future of R&B sounds like, it’s them as they are fearless when it comes to experimenting.
Beyoncé – ‘MORNING DEW’ ft JAY-Z (Single/Remix)
Shifting our attention toward Beyoncé, she wanted to remind the world how to do a proper remix with “MORNING DEW,” now featuring JAY-Z. For that reason, you can expect some “Drunk In Love” natural chemistry from the Carter’s with a boatload of hype samples. Without a doubt, it’s obvious that this single is built for a stadium environment and even perfectly timed for football season due to its lit energy.
Cardi B – “AH HA” (Single)
From an objective standpoint, it’s rather puzzling that Cardi B would wait til the end of summertime to drop a fun single like “AH HA.” Beyond the obvious, her infectious energy completes this song and makes you want to keep coming back. Given the current landscape of rap, it’s even more impressive how well she sounds over a Detroit-style beat,further validating her versatility.
Ari Lennox – “Hookah Baby” (Single)
As it seems, Ari Lennox is seemingly in the midst of a career rebirth as she seems to be freer with what she drops. As a result, we are able to get light-hearted records like “Hookah Baby” where she doesn’t take herself too seriously lyrically. Following this approach, she could easily dominate as she is cognizant of her audience and being able to grow up with them.
Malaya – “Knees” (Single)
Finally, our last spot of New Music Friday goes to Detroit singer-songwriter, Malaya’s vibrant single, “Knees.” On the surface, it feels like she’s on the highway by herself as its almost impossible to find another artist making similar indie R&B that almost defies any genre. In totality, this short and sweet single makes up for the short run-time with some hypnotizing vocals that likely only scratch the surface of her full music arsenal.
We hope you enjoyed this week’s edition of New Music Friday!
