HYFIN’s 8 must-listen new albums: Shaboozey, Myaap, and more

Welcome to this week’s edition of HYFIN’s must-listen new albums, where we spotlight the freshest and most exciting releases out today (5/31/24). We delve into the latest projects from a diverse array of talented artists: Milwaukee’s Myaap with her energetic “YOP!” EP, Crystal Murray’s genre-melting “Sad Lovers and Giants,” Shaboozey’s groundbreaking “Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going” featuring Beyoncé, Suzi Analogue’s innovative “ONEZ,” Mxshi Mo’s distinctive “Nkanyiso,” The Brkn Record’s socially conscious “The Architecture of Oppression Part 2,” Oddisee’s thought-provoking “And Yet Still,” and the comprehensive jazz collection “J Jazz: Free and Modern Jazz Albums From Japan 1954-1988.”

HYFIN’s 8 Must-Listen New Albums

Myaap – “YOP!” EP

Milwaukee’s rising star, Myaap, returns with her latest EP, “YOP!” produced by Nedarb. Building on the success of her previous release, “BIG MYAAP, NOT THE LIL ONE,” Myaap continues to push the boundaries of Milwaukee’s music scene. Nedarb, known for his collaborations with Black Kray, Lil Peep, and $uicideboy$, provides a dynamic backdrop for Myaap’s energetic style. The six-track EP seamlessly blends local influences with broader musical trends, showcasing Myaap’s versatility and solidifying her role as a trailblazer in her regional scene.

Crystal Murray – “Sad Lovers and Giants”

Crystal Murray, the Franco-American singer-songwriter, presents her debut album “Sad Lovers and Giants.” Growing up in a musically rich environment in Paris, Crystal’s eclectic blend of soul, jazz, house, and R&B shines through in this album. With influences ranging from Jeff Buckley to Massive Attack, Crystal creates a genre-melting experience. Produced by Kyu Steed and Benjiflow, the album features a variety of electronic beats, demonstrating Crystal’s deep musical growth and her journey from a fashion icon in Paris to a burgeoning pop sensation.

Shaboozey – “Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going”

Shaboozey, known for his genre-blending style, is set to release his third studio album, “Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going.” Featuring collaborations with Noah Cyrus, Paul Cauthen, BigXthaPlug, and Beyoncé, the album includes the hit single “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which has topped various charts. Shaboozey and Beyoncé have made history as the first two Black artists to lead the Billboard Hot Country Songs Chart with back-to-back #1 songs. Tracks like “Horses & Hellcats” and “Drink Don’t Need No Mix” continue to push musical boundaries and cement Shaboozey’s place in the mainstream music scene.

Suzi Analogue – “ONEZ”

Suzi Analogue, the Miami-based producer and beatmaker, releases her latest mixtape “ONEZ.” This project features new tracks, collaborations, exclusive remixes, and special DJ edits, with contributions from artists like JLIN, NAPPYNAPPA, and King Britt. Suzi’s innovative sound, influenced by her synesthesia, creates a unique auditory experience that continues to evolve and captivate audiences.

Mxshi Mo – “Nkanyiso”

South African music producer Mxshi Mo debuts his self-titled album “Nkanyiso,” featuring collaborations with Skream, Moonchild Sanelly, and others. Despite his visual impairment, Mxshi Mo’s distinctive sound blends modern RnB, hip-hop, and experimental electronic music. This album, dedicated to his late grandparents, is accompanied by a short film documenting his creative process, funded by The British Arts Council.

The Brkn Record – “The Architecture of Oppression Part 2”

Jake Ferguson, known for his work with The Heliocentrics, presents “The Architecture of Oppression Part 2” under The Brkn Record. This album continues to merge music and activism, addressing systemic racism through captivating soundscapes. Featuring artists discovered through Ferguson’s activism work, the album is a powerful statement on social justice and the importance of genuine expression.

Oddisee – “And Yet Still”

Oddisee’s “And Yet Still” EP showcases his ability to blend soulful beats with thought-provoking lyrics. Tracks like “World On Fire” and “Thankful For” highlight his versatility, incorporating influences from jazz, hip-hop, and global rhythms. Oddisee’s commitment to authenticity and self-expression makes this EP a compelling addition to his discography.

J Jazz – “Free and Modern Jazz Albums From Japan 1954 – 1988”

BBE Music’s “J Jazz: Free and Modern Jazz Albums From Japan 1954-1988” is a comprehensive collection of over 500 albums, documenting the evolution of jazz in Japan. Compiled by Tony Higgins and Mike Peden, this book offers a deep dive into the innovative and transformative jazz scene in Japan from the post-war era to the late 1980s. The book is accompanied by a digital download of the album, providing a rich auditory experience to complement the detailed visual and historical documentation. This collection is a must-have for jazz enthusiasts and historians alike.