6 NEW MUST-LISTEN ALBUMS: Kamasi Washington, Willow, & more

Check out these six must-listen albums hand-picked by HYFIN for Friday, April 26, 2024. This week’s hand-picked selection includes Kamasi Washington’s dance-inspired jazz album “Fearless Movement,” Ibibio Sound Machine’s kaleidoscopic “Pull The Rope,” Charlotte Day Wilson’s soulful sophomore album “Cyan Blue,” Nubiyan Twist’s collaborative 4th album “Find Your Flame,” Slum Village’s disco-inspired hip-hop revival “F.U.N.,” and Willow’s introspective indie album “Empathogen.”

Kamasi Washington – Fearless Movement

Kamasi Washington, the acclaimed saxophonist and composer, is set to release his album “Fearless Movement.” The album embodies the idea of expressing one’s spirit through movement and music. It features an impressive lineup of guest artists and showcases Washington and his ensemble infusing their rhythms with funk, reminiscent of a time when jazz was dance music.

Ibibio Sound Machine – “Pull The Rope”

Ibibio Sound Machine’s “Pull The Rope” casts the Eno Williams and Max Grunhard–led outfit in a new light, further honing the edge of their acclaimed 2022 album “Electricity.” The album is a nimble, sleek machine that drives through a kaleidoscopic array of house, post-punk, funk, Afrobeat, and disco, making an argument for unity that begins on the dancefloor.

Charlotte Day Wilson – “Cyan Blue”

Charlotte Day Wilson’s sophomore album, “Cyan Blue,” finds the Toronto-born singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist crafting a smoothly woven tapestry of gospel, soul, electronic, and R&B influences. The album is colored by themes of love, loss, hope, and gratitude as Wilson reflects on her past and present with wistfulness and wisdom.

Nubiyan Twist – “Find Your Flame”

Nubiyan Twist, the Leeds-based collective, announces their 4th album, “Find Your Flame,” accompanied by the vibrant single “Lights Out,” featuring the iconic Nile Rodgers. The album enlists talented artists from across the globe, including Seun Kuti and Mamani Keita, as well as homegrown UK talent Corto Alta, Ria Moran, KOG & NEone the Wonderer.

Slum Village – “F.U.N”

Slum Village, the legendary hip-hop group from Detroit, returns with “F.U.N.,” their first full-length project since 2015. The album represents a departure from their signature slower-paced, jazz, and soul-influenced sound, inspired by disco and a desire to experiment. With “F.U.N.,” Slum Village aims to deliver a joyous revival of hip-hop while paying tribute to their legacy.

Willow – “Empathogen”

Willow’s sixth studio album, “Empathogen,” marks a significant evolution in her sound and creative process. Venturing into a slower, dreamy indie genre with introspective and poetic lyricism, the album reflects Willow’s growth as an artist and her willingness to express her authentic self.