9 must-listen new albums: Megan thee stallion, hiatus kaiyote & more

Here are HYFIN’s nine must-listen new albums of the week. From Megan Thee Stallion’s transformative rebirth to Lucky Daye’s algorithmic artistry, this diverse lineup promises to captivate and inspire. Join us as we explore Omar Apollo’s emotional journey, Channel Tres’ electronic mastery, Lupe Fiasco’s conceptual tribute, Lil Yachty & James Blake’s genre-defying collaboration, Hiatus Kaiyote’s playful exuberance, Amaarae’s dazzling EP, and CupcakKe’s fearless manifesto.

Megan Thee Stallion – “Megan”

Megan Thee Stallion’s third studio album, “Megan,” marks a significant milestone in her career. Released on June 28, 2024, this 18-track project is her first independent release under Hot Girl Productions. The album symbolizes rebirth and transformation, reflected in its striking cover art featuring Megan emerging from a butterfly chrysalis. Collaborations with Houston icons like GK, Rilla, Monet, and K.R.I.T. pay homage to her roots, while an unreleased verse from the late Pimp C adds depth to the album’s connection to Houston’s hip-hop legacy. Standout tracks include the snake-themed singles “Cobra,” “Hiss,” and “Boa,” showcasing Megan’s evolving sound while maintaining her signature style. This deeply personal album explores a range of emotions and experiences, marking a new chapter in Megan’s career following recent personal challenges.

Lucky Daye – “Algorithm”

Lucky Daye’s highly anticipated third studio album, “Algorithm,” set for release in June 2024 via Keep Cool/RCA Records, promises to push the boundaries of R&B, soul, and funk. The album’s first single, “HERicane,” offers a taste of Daye’s genre-bending talents and innovative sound. Critics are praising “Algorithm” for its ambition and pop sensibilities while noting that Daye remains true to his soulful roots. The album is described as thrilling and marks what some are calling Daye’s “rockstar era,” suggesting a bolder, more adventurous sound than his previous work. To support the release, Lucky Daye has announced “The Algorithm Tour,” a headlining North American tour that will showcase his dynamic artistry at prestigious venues across the United States and Canada.

Omar Apollo – “God Said No”

Omar Apollo’s sophomore album, “God Said No,” set to release on June 28, 2024, is a deeply personal exploration of love, heartbreak, and personal growth. The 14-track album, largely written in London’s Abbey Road Studios, features collaborations with Mustafa and a surprise appearance by actor Pedro Pascal. Apollo draws inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Kate Bush, Giorgio Moroder, and Beyoncé, creating a cohesive sequence meant to be listened to from start to finish. The album’s title, inspired by a friend’s comment during Apollo’s processing of a relationship’s end, reflects the project’s themes of romantic struggles and personal reflection. With its rich and varied sonic experience, “God Said No” promises to showcase Apollo’s evolving artistry and his unique blend of genres in the alt-R&B scene.

Channel Tres – “Head Rush”

Channel Tres’ latest album, “Head Rush,” released in 2024, continues to showcase his signature blend of West Coast rap with Detroit techno and Chicago house influences. The album builds on the success of his previous work, further cementing his position as an innovative force in electronic music. “Head Rush” features Channel Tres’ characteristic deep vocals layered over pulsating house beats, with lyrics touching on personal experiences and social commentary. The album includes collaborations with several notable artists, expanding on Channel Tres’ reputation for working with diverse talents across the music industry. To support the release, Channel Tres has embarked on a global tour, performing at major festivals and sold-out venues, further solidifying his status as a rising star in the electronic music world.

Lupe Fiasco – “Samurai”

Lupe Fiasco’s ninth studio album, “Samurai,” set to release on June 28, 2024, is a concept album dedicated to the life, work, and career of neo-soul singer Amy Winehouse. Exclusively produced by longtime collaborator Soundtrakk, the 8-track project showcases Lupe’s signature lyrical prowess and conceptual wordplay. The album is described as smooth yet cerebral, blending jazzy, soulful beats with Lupe’s unmatched lyricism. The narrative follows a battle rapper through various moments in their career, touching on personal experiences and industry challenges. “Samurai” also marks a significant reunion, being the first time Lupe, Soundtrakk, and his manager Charles “Chill” Patton have worked together since Patton’s release from prison in 2023. With this deeply personal album, Lupe Fiasco continues to prove his innovative approach to hip-hop, even after two decades in the industry.

Lil Yachty & James Blake – “Bad Cameo”

“Bad Cameo,” the collaborative album from Lil Yachty and James Blake released on June 28, 2024, is a unique and genre-defying project. The 10-track album, running approximately 45 minutes, fuses Blake’s ambient music sensibilities with Yachty’s ethereal vocals, creating a sound far from traditional hip-hop. The unconventional creation process involved Blake starting songs with beatless ambient pieces, to which Yachty would spontaneously write lyrics and melodies. Musically, “Bad Cameo” blends ambient, alt-R&B reminiscent of Sampha, and elements of cloud rap, featuring intricate synth work and impeccable mixing. Standout tracks like “Missing Man” and “Midnight” have garnered particular praise from listeners. This bold collaboration pushes both artists into new creative territories, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment.

Hiatus Kaiyote – “Love Heart Cheat Code”

Hiatus Kaiyote’s highly awaited album “Love Heart Cheat Code,” released via Brainfeeder Records / Ninja Tune, offers 11 playful, exuberant tracks that showcase the band’s creative harmony. The album features previously shared singles “Everything’s Beautiful,” “Make Friends,” “Telescope,” “Cinnamon Temple,” and the title track “Love Heart Cheat Code.” Collaborations with Melbourne-based musicians and producer Mario Caldato add depth to the album’s sound. The band approached the album as a complete ecosystem, creating a strong visual world to coincide with the music. They worked with multimedia artist Rajni Perera for the album artwork and developed an entire conceptual world around the album, including custom products and an imagined “Love Heart Cheat Code” supermarket. This innovative approach results in a cohesive yet relaxed body of work that reflects the band’s deeper understanding of themselves and their music.

Amaarae – “roses are red, tears are blue”

Ghanaian-American singer-songwriter Amaarae has released her latest EP, “roses are red, tears are blue,” on June 28, 2024. Described as “A Fountain Baby Extended Play,” this project showcases Amaarae’s unique blend of Afropop, R&B, and alternative sounds that have garnered her international attention. While the exact number of tracks is not specified, the EP is being praised as a “dazzling new extended play,” maintaining the high quality and innovative sound that Amaarae has become known for. The EP’s title suggests themes of love, heartbreak, and emotional complexity, likely explored throughout the tracks. One standout track, “this!,” has been released with an official audio on YouTube, giving fans a taste of the project’s sound. This release marks a significant moment in Amaarae’s career, showcasing her evolving artistry and potentially expanding her global fanbase.

CupcakKe – “Dauntless Manifesto”

CupcakKe’s new album “Dauntless Manifesto,” released on June 28, 2024, features 16 tracks and runs for 44 minutes. True to her bold and unapologetic style, the album’s title suggests themes of fearlessness and self-expression. While specific details about the album’s content are not provided, fans can expect CupcakKe’s signature blend of raw, honest, and often humorous lyrics over hard-hitting beats. As with her previous work, “Dauntless Manifesto” is generating significant buzz online, with fans and critics eager to dive into her latest material. This release is likely to further solidify CupcakKe’s position in the rap industry, providing her audience with the fresh, bold content she’s known for. The album is available on various streaming platforms, including Apple Music, allowing fans worldwide to experience CupcakKe’s fearless new offering.

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