NEW MUSIC MONDAYS. Sensational new albums from AZ Chike, Chaka Khan, Rakim, Kurupt & Masta Killa, Rhiannon Giddens, Thee Sinseers, Seyi Vibes, Branford Marsalis Quartet, Liv East and Ayanna Witter-Johnson

AZ Chike – No Rest for the Wicked

(Warner Records)

AZ Chike expands his presence with No Rest for the Wicked, delivering a well-crafted project that demonstrates his technical versatility and undeniable momentum. Built on robust West Coast production, crisp percussion, and sharp cadences, the album maintains a dynamic pace throughout its tracklist while giving the South Central artist ample room to showcase his distinct lyrical presence.

The project features high-profile guest appearances and stellar production value. Tyler, The Creator delivers a memorable verse and production on “Look Like My Mama” (as well as appearing on “The World Is Ours”), while additional contributions from producers like Pharrell Williams, Hit-Boy, and Sounwave elevate tracks like “Lamb Truck Keys” and “Negative”. It stands as a confident, engaging body of work from an artist stepping into a much larger spotlight.

Chaka Khan – Chakzilla 

(EarthSong Records / BMG)

The iconic Queen of Funk returns with Chakzilla, a vibrant ten-track collection that effortlessly fuses classic soul sensibilities with polished modern dance and pop production. Chaka Khan remains in top vocal form, delivering powerful, commanding performances over driving basslines, rich horn charts, and infectious grooves.

Co-written with Sia and produced by Greg Kurstin, the album balances celebratory energy with sophisticated musicianship. Snoop Dogg lends his signature smooth cadence to the single “Boogie’s in My Soul,” while rock legend Lenny Kravitz adds guitar flair to “Bring the Party”. Tracks like “Curious Subject” and “Cool U Down” highlight the album’s rich arrangements, making Chakzilla a triumphant and uplifting addition to her legendary catalog.

Rakim, Kurupt & Masta Killa – The Godbody 

(Holy Toledo Productions / DMG Publishing)

Three respected figures in hip-hop history align on The Godbody, combining East Coast lyricism with West Coast grit for an impressive collaborative effort. Rakim, Kurupt, and Masta Killa trade intricate verses over classic boom-bap drumming, soulful sample selections, and neck-snapping tempos that honor the foundational elements of the genre.

The album features a celebrated roster of guest lyricists that enhance its classic appeal. “Rock Ya Body” brings together Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, and Daz Dillinger for a seamless cross-coastal track, while “Still Ill!” features formidable appearances from KRS-One and Kool G Rap. The result is a refined, articulate showcase of veteran craftsmanship.

Rhiannon Giddens – Hope Is the Thing With Feathers

 (Nonesuch Records)

Pulitzer Prize and Grammy winner Rhiannon Giddens presents a deeply resonant collection of roots, folk, and Americana arrangements on Hope Is the Thing With Feathers. Captured with pristine acoustic clarity, the record highlights her virtuosic banjo and fiddle instrumentation alongside a voice capable of extraordinary emotional depth.

Selections like “Carolina Rain” display her mastery of traditional storytelling and melody, while the soulful, gospel-infused arrangement of “Angel Fire Rise” brings a warm, grounded energy to the album. It is a thoughtful, elegant project that honors musical history while feeling timeless in its execution.

Thee Sinseers – Love Stories 

(Colemine Records)

Southern California soul ensemble Thee Sinseers deliver an exceptional project with Love Stories, capturing the warmth and intimacy of classic sweet soul and lowrider oldies. Featuring rich brass arrangements, smooth vocal harmonies, and steady mid-tempo grooves, the group builds a lush sonic landscape that feels nostalgic yet thoroughly refreshed.

Bandleader Joey Quinones guides the album with heartfelt vocal arrangements across key tracks such as “Love Stories,” “Hold On,” and “Did Ya Know?” The production remains organic and soulful throughout, offering a deeply rewarding listening experience for fans of timeless R&B.

Seyi Vibez – Swaguu 

(Vibez Inc / Bina Music)

Nigerian music sensation Seyi Vibez delivers high-energy expression on Swaguu, a project that blends Afrobeats, Amapiano rhythms, and traditional Fuji musical elements. His distinct vocal delivery and rhythmic phrasing create an engaging tempo that propels the album from start to finish.

With executive production contributions involving Burna Boy, the album features expansive percussion and memorable melodic hooks. Key tracks like “GTA” and the title cut “Swaguu” highlight his ability to craft infectious, dance-floor-ready compositions that resonate globally.

Branford Marsalis Quartet – Dedicated to You 

(Marsalis Music / Blue Note Records)

Celebrating the historical legacy of John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman, the Branford Marsalis Quartet delivers a breathtaking jazz recording on Dedicated to You. Marsalis’s saxophone performance is lyrical and deeply expressive, supported by the stellar rhythm section of Joey Calderazzo on piano, Eric Revis on bass, and Justin Faulkner on drums.

Vocalist Dianne Reeves appears on several centerpiece tracks, delivering stunning interpretations of the title track “Dedicated to You” and “They Say It’s Wonderful.” Instrumental offerings like “Central Park West” display the quartet’s precise group intuition, making this project an exemplary jazz tribute.

Liv East – Funksoulsex 

(EMK Records)

London singer-songwriter Liv East presents a smooth fusion of modern R&B, UK soul, and funk on her debut album Funksoulsex. Built on subtle basslines, warm synthesizer textures, and relaxed vocal arrangements, the record creates a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout.

Songs like “How Many Nights?,” “I’m Yours,” and “So Good” highlight her fluid phrasing and understated vocal elegance. It is a well-crafted debut that marks her as an exciting talent in modern soul music.

Ayanna Witter-Johnson – New Roots

(Hill and Gully Records)

Cellist, vocalist, and composer Ayanna Witter-Johnson offers a genre-defying collection on New Roots. Effortlessly bridging classical chamber instrumentation with reggae, jazz, and soul traditions, her pizzicato cello technique and resonant singing voice create a uniquely rich sonic identity.

Selections such as “Blue” and “Pioneers” serve as centerpiece moments on the album, featuring driving rhythmic patterns and uplifting lyricism. The album stands as a sophisticated, inspiring body of work that celebrates musical heritage and innovation.