6 must-listen new albums: Toro Y Moi, LL Cool J, Laila!, G Herbo & More

HYFIN’s must-listen new albums for the week of September 6, 2024, offer an eclectic mix of sounds from veteran artists and fresh voices alike. From Toro y Moi’s genre-bending experiment to LL Cool J’s star-studded comeback, Amadou & Mariam’s career retrospective, G Herbo’s lighter turn, Laila!’s debut, and James Bangura’s electronic EP, there’s something for every music enthusiast this week.

Toro y Moi – “Hole Erth”

Chaz Bear’s eighth studio album as Toro y Moi is a bold departure from his previous work. “Hole Erth” sees Bear dive into rap-rock, Soundcloud rap, and Y2K emo, blending genres with his signature electronic production. With an impressive list of features, including Don Toliver, Kevin Abstract, and even Death Cab for Cutie’s Benjamin Gibbard, this album showcases Bear’s versatility and production prowess.

LL Cool J – “The FORCE”

Hip-hop legend LL Cool J returns triumphantly with his first album in over a decade. Entirely produced by Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest, “The FORCE” boasts an all-star lineup of guests, including Eminem, Nas, and Snoop Dogg. This highly anticipated release promises to blend LL’s iconic style with contemporary production, marking a significant moment in hip-hop.

Amadou & Mariam – “La Vie Est Belle”

The Malian musical duo celebrates their illustrious career with this retrospective album. Featuring their greatest hits since 1998 alongside new tracks, “La Vie Est Belle” showcases Amadou & Mariam’s influential Afro-pop sound. With collaborations from Manu Chao and fresh production from Busy Twist, this album is a testament to their enduring legacy.

G Herbo – “Big Swerv”

Chicago’s G Herbo returns with a project that shifts towards more lighthearted themes. “Big Swerv” features collaborations with Chief Keef, Sexyy Red, and potentially 21 Savage, promising a blend of Herbo’s raw lyricism with a more celebratory tone.

Laila! – “GAP YEAR!”

Emerging artist Laila!, daughter of hip-hop legend Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def), drops her debut album. “GAP YEAR!” is a self-produced 17-track journey through 90s-inspired hip-hop and R&B. This release marks the arrival of a promising new voice in the industry with Laila! carving out her own identity while nodding to her impressive musical lineage.

James Bangura – “The Heights” EP

Washington, D.C.’s electronic music scene gets boosted with James Bangura’s debut EP on the Numbers label. “The Heights” showcases Bangura’s ability to blend intense beatdown styles with refined production, featuring a collaboration with NAPPYNAPPA. This release solidifies Bangura’s position as a torchbearer for D.C.’s electronic music scene.