6 new Albums out Apr 12 include tributes to Sun Ra & Alice Randall

HYFIN remains committed to celebrating the diversity of Black music where no box can contain it. This week’s must-listen new albums exemplify the remarkable range of talent and ingenuity within the Black music community. From the pioneering electronic soundscapes of Nia Archives to the poignant tributes honoring iconic artists like Sun Ra and Alice Randall, these releases showcase Black musicians’ enduring impact across a broad spectrum of genres. New albums from artists include Nia Archives, Shabaka, Meshell Ndegeocello, various artists paying homage to Alice Randall, Leyla McCalla, and the dynamic duo of Future and Metro Boomin.

HYFIN Verified artist Nia Archives’ debut album, “Silence Is Loud,” blends classic jungle and breakbeat elements with a modern, pop-infused twist. The rising UK electronic music star explores themes of loneliness, relationships, family, and the challenges of navigating one’s 20s, creating a cohesive and captivating body of work that showcases her skills as a producer and singer-songwriter.

Shabaka, known for his work with Sons of Kemet and The Comet Is Coming, delivers a reflective and contemplative solo debut with “Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace.” Released on the legendary Impulse! label, the album channels new age and spiritual jazz, offering a thoughtful and immersive listening experience that rewards deep attention.

Meshell Ndegeocello joins forces with the Red Hot Organization to pay tribute to the legendary jazz composer and bandleader Sun Ra on “Red Hot & Ra: The Magic City.” Produced by Ndegeocello and Hector Castillo, the album brings together a diverse array of artists to reinterpret Sun Ra’s avant-garde compositions, celebrating his legacy while raising awareness and funds for important causes.

“My Black Country—The Songs of Alice Randall” features various artists reinterpreting Randall’s remarkable work, celebrating the Black female experience in country, blues, and Americana. The album and Randall’s recently released book of the same name offers a powerful testament to the enduring influence of Black artists in shaping the country music landscape. Milwaukee’s own SistaStrings has a song titlted “Girls Ride Horses Too” on the tribute album!

Leyla McCalla’s “Sun Without the Heat” showcases the multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter’s unique ability to blend various musical styles, including tropical Brazilian sounds, afrobeat, and her signature folk and roots influences. The album navigates the ups and downs of the human experience with grace and authenticity, delivering a compelling and enriching listening experience. Leyla iw known for her work with the Carolina Chocolate Drops and Our Native Daughter.

Finally, Future and Metro Boomin join forces once again on their second collaborative album, “We Still Don’t Trust You.” The album showcases the undeniable artistic chemistry between the two artists as they continue to push the boundaries of hip-hop and trap music, incorporating new influences and delivering an impressive lineup of guest appearances.