7 must-listen new albums of the week from Madison McFerrin, Lizzo, Pi’erre Bourne and more

This week’s selection showcases a solid range of contemporary sounds across multiple genres. Madison McFerrin explores her soul-a-cappella approach on Scorpio, while Durand Jones & The Indications deliver refined Philadelphia soul on Flowers. Lizzo shifts toward Southern rap territory with the surprise release My Face Hurts From Smiling, and Kevin Abstract reassembles former BROCKHAMPTON collaborators for the experimental Blush. Meanwhile, Pi’erre Bourne presents his most focused solo work with Made in Paris, Oregon duo Dana & Alden continue their instrumental fusion explorations on Speedo, and Chicago’s Willynova examines diasporic themes on the conceptual TIBET ASANTE.

Madison McFerrin – Scorpio

The Brooklyn-based vocalist and producer, daughter of jazz artist Bobby McFerrin, presents her second full-length album with characteristic independence and restraint. Recorded primarily in her home studio and released via Bandcamp, Scorpio balances uptempo tracks like “Run It Back” with quieter moments such as “blue.” McFerrin’s layered approach combines synth-bass, drum programming, and vocal harmonies while maintaining the intimate quality that marked her earlier work. The album’s emotional range reflects the complexity suggested by its astrological title.

Durand Jones & The Indications – Flowers

The Indiana soul group’s fourth album finds them incorporating Philadelphia soul influences and emphasizing co-leader Aaron Frazer’s falsetto alongside Durand Jones’s established baritone. Flowers demonstrates a more contemplative songwriting approach compared to their earlier releases, reflecting the band’s evolution since their 2016 debut. The arrangements feature string sections that complement rather than overshadow the group’s fundamental soul sensibilities. This represents a measured step forward for a band that has steadily developed their sound over nearly a decade.

Lizzo – My Face Hurts From Smiling

Released with minimal advance notice, this 13-track collection marks a departure from Lizzo’s 2022 album Special toward more aggressive rap styles. The Detroit artist works with producers Zaytoven and Tay Keith while incorporating her signature flute playing and humor throughout. Guest appearances from Doja Cat and SZA provide additional variety to the project. Tracks like “CRASHOUT” recall Lizzo’s earlier Minneapolis underground work, demonstrating her versatility beyond her mainstream pop success.

Kevin Abstract – Blush

Following BROCKHAMPTON’s conclusion, the group’s founder assembles former members and collaborators including JPEGMafia, Dominic Fike, and Ameer Vann for this Houston-centered project. Abstract’s approach alternates between art-rap and guitar-influenced indie-pop, maintaining the personal perspective that characterized his 2019 solo album Arizona Baby. The record functions as both individual statement and collective effort, suggesting potential future collaborations within this expanded creative network. The production incorporates varied influences while remaining cohesive throughout.

Pi’erre Bourne – Made in Paris

The producer, known for his work on Playboi Carti’s “Magnolia,” presents his most unified solo album across 17 tracks that blend French disco, Atlanta trap, and video game-inspired synthesizer sounds. Bourne handles most production duties himself, with occasional contributions from SossHouse associates. The album features bilingual elements on songs like “Bleu” and “Bon Appétit,” supporting Bourne’s artistic ambitions beyond production work. This represents his most complete vision as a solo artist to date.

Dana & Alden – Speedo

The Oregon brothers Dana (drums) and Alden McWayne (saxophone) continue their instrumental approach on their third release, incorporating breakbeats, synthesizer textures, and jazz horn arrangements. Their concise compositions include humorous titles like “Wyckoff Deli Chicken Over Rice” while maintaining musical substance. The duo’s festival appearances and online presence have gradually expanded their audience beyond jazz circles. Speedo suggests their growing confidence in bridging different instrumental traditions.

Willynova – TIBET ASANTE

The Chicago rapper’s self-released concept album combines sample-based production with Afrofuturist themes and Ghanaian musical influences. Willynova, who has released five albums in four years, uses the project to explore questions of identity and heritage within contemporary hip-hop frameworks. His rapid delivery and dense lyrical approach build on the foundation established with 2023’s Pardon My Sleeze. While operating outside mainstream attention, the album demonstrates consistent artistic development and thematic focus.