If It's Too Loud...

Artist : Kae Tempest Album : Self Titled Quick Thoughts : I first tripped up on Kae Tempest a few years back, and thought his approach to music felt more like slam poetry than truly rap music. Since then, he's gone through a transition and brings a new album that puts his experience front and center, often dabbling more in the drill direction than even regular rap. It's really a step up for the artist, and this became a fast favorite of the recent few weeks because of how honest and forthright it is. Make some time for this one. Songs of Note : "I Stand on the Line," "Statue in the Square," "Breathe," "Diagnoses" Artist : The Sun Kings Album : Lovers Always Win Quick Thoughts : I did not know the Sun Kings before this week, and their approach as a sort of calypso-ska hybrid (calypska?) really piqued my interest from the start. It straddles the line between familiar and unique, and it's rare - "Hall of Mirrors" is ...

Artist : Lucius Album : Second Nature Quick Thoughts : We've been fans of Lucius around these parts for some time now, and it's continually great to see them get more and more notice. This latest album is a wonderful, polished effort with some heavy hitting guest spots and a lot of gorgeous harmonies. Longtime fans will find plenty to love here, as will folks finally getting to jump on the bandwagon. Songs of Note : "Next to Normal," "Dance Around" Artist : Wet Leg Album : Wet Leg Quick Thoughts : Wet Leg is probably the buzziest new band to hit the scene in years, and for good reason. "Chaise Longue" is a hit in every sense of the word, and the overall presence of the band is one that feels extremely natural and experienced. For me, Wet Leg is odd because this album feels like it is trying to make 25-year-old-me their new obsession, and they hit a lot of nostalgia triggers for me. Wet Leg is basically what you'd expect middle schoo...