Sons of Kemet - Your Queen Is a Reptile

Your Queen Is a Reptile should go down as one of the most exhilarating and revolutionary jazz records of 2018.

Kali Uchis - Isolation

Thanks to its strong melodies and aesthetic, Isolation is a great and promising full-length debut from the Colombian soul singer.

Flatbush Zombies - Vacation in Hell

Vacation in Hell has its share of great songs, but many of the deep cuts find the Zombies punching below their weight.

Cardi B - Invasion of Privacy

While the quality of Invasion of Privacy drops off a bit in the second half, it's overall a promising commercial debut for Cardi B.

Lil Xan - Total Xanarchy

Total Xanarchy is way too drab to be even dumb fun.

Ruin - Plague Transmissions Vol. 1

Plague Transmissions Vol. 1 is one of the ugliest and most standout death metal projects I've heard in a while.

Drake - "Nice for What"

Before the hype from “God’s Plan” dies down, Drake has changed pace with his new single “Nice for What.” The track features a prominent Lauryn Hill sample, and is clearly made for the dancefloor. The Canadian crooner blends his pop rap sound with a dusty old school vibe, making “Nice for What” engaging and refreshing.

In addition to his recent singles, Drake was prominently featured on BlocBoy JB’s “Look Alive," as well as his remix of N.E.R.D.’s “Lemon.” As always, Drake has been generating a massive amount of buzz and anticipation for his new album, which he says will be for the city of Toronto.

-Owen Murray

Aminé - "Campfire"

Portland rapper Aminé has teamed up with Phoenix rap trio Injury Reserve for a smooth, low-key single titled “Campfire.” It's Aminé’s second single since his debut album Good for You, which came out last year.

This unexpected combo pairs well on the short but catchy track. Aminé handles the hook, going on about his love for his red Mercedes – a familiar topic for Aminé – and trades verses with Injury Reseve’s Ritchie with a T. However, Groggs is nowhere to be found. 

Though "Campfire” was apparently produced by Asa Taccone rather than Injury Reserve’s Parker Corey, its tight instrumental and rocking bass is reminiscent of one of the trio's best tracks like “See You Sweat.” The difference being this track is significantly more skeletal. 

Aminé has not announced any plans for a new album yet, but Injury Reserve teased a new project on Instagram before kicking off their North American tour.

-Owen Murray