6 must-listen new albums: Kehlani, Your Old Droog, Catpack & more

Here is this week’s HYFIN’s must-listen new album releases. Kehlani returns with Crash, their fourth studio album that blends various musical styles and showcases collaborations with Jill Scott, Young Miko, and Omah Lay, marking a vibrant shift from their previous work. The collaborative effort A Dog’s Chance brings together the talents of Polo Perks <3 <3 <3, AyooLii, and Feardorian, offering a dynamic mix of rap and hip-hop. Swim Surreal and Zero 7 present In The Half Light, combining Swim Surreal’s soulful vocals with Zero 7’s sophisticated production.

Your Old Droog’s Movie is an 18-track album featuring contributions from industry giants like Madlib, Harry Fraud, and Just Blaze, blending personal storytelling with cinematic themes. Catpack’s self-titled debut album showcases the Los Angeles trio’s jazz-influenced R&B sound, highlighting the creative synergy among Amber Navran, Jacob Mann, and Phil Beaudreau. Finally, No Be Today by Bosq and Kaleta explores the intersections of Afro-Latin music with Disco, Funk, Reggae, House, and Hip-Hop, blending live instrumentation with electronic elements. These releases exemplify the richness and diversity of contemporary music, each offering a unique auditory experience that reflects the evolving musical landscape.

Kehlani – Crash

Kehlani’s fourth studio album, Crash, represents a transformative phase in their career. After a two-year hiatus following Blue Water Road, Kehlani returns with a vibrant collection of tracks that blend various musical styles. The album includes notable collaborations with Jill Scott, Young Miko, and Omah Lay, contributing to its eclectic sound. The themes of resilience and transformation are reflected in the music and the album’s striking cover art, depicting Kehlani atop a demolished red car. Fans can expect a joyful and energetic album that moves away from the pain-driven themes of their earlier work, promising a refreshing addition to Kehlani’s discography.

Polo Perks <3 <3 <3, AyooLii, and Feardorian – A Dog’s Chance

The collaborative album A Dog’s Chance by Polo Perks <3 <3 <3, AyooLii, and Feardorian is a testament to the power of creative synergy. Combining the lyrical prowess of Polo Perks, Milwaukee’s AyooLii’s distinctive style, and Feardorian’s production expertise, this 16-track project offers a dynamic blend of rap and hip-hop. The album, available in lossless digital format, has already generated buzz within the music community, promising a diverse and engaging listening experience highlighting each artist’s strengths.

Swim Surreal & Zero 7 – In The Half Light

In The Half Light is a unique collaboration between California-based artist Swim Surreal and London’s renowned duo Zero 7. This nine-track album features the standout single “Don’t Call It Love,” accompanied by a visually captivating video directed by Lauren Luxenberg. The album showcases Swim Surreal’s soulful vocals against Zero 7’s sophisticated production, blending sun-dappled melodies and electronic textures. This project is poised to resonate with fans of both artists, offering a fresh and innovative sound.

Your Old Droog – Movie

Brooklyn-based emcee Your Old Droog’s latest album, Movie, invites listeners on a cinematic journey through 18 meticulously crafted tracks. Collaborations with industry titans such as Madlib, Harry Fraud, and Just Blaze enrich the album’s soundscape. Inspired by a childhood memory of extraordinary moments in films being referred to as “Kino” or “Movie,” Droog’s album combines personal storytelling with broader, relatable themes. Standout tracks include the Method Man and Denzel Curry-assisted “DBZ” and the Yasiin Bey-featured “Care Plan,” showcasing Droog’s lyrical depth and creative vision.

Catpack – Catpack

The debut album Catpack by Los Angeles trio Amber Navran, Jacob Mann, and Phil Beaudreau is a delightful fusion of jazz-influenced R&B, neo-soul, and electronic motifs. Featuring ten tracks, including the whimsical single “Next To Me,” the album is a testament to the trio’s genuine camaraderie and mutual admiration. Each member brings their unique talents to the project, creating an authentic and joyful exploration of musical expression. With its playful synth sounds and rich harmonies, Catpack is set to captivate listeners with its light-hearted yet sophisticated approach.

Bosq & Kaleta – No Be Today

No Be Today marks the first full-length collaboration between Bosq and Kaleta, blending Afro-Latin music with Disco, Funk, Reggae, House, and Hip-Hop. The album’s intricate arrangements feature live horn sections, layered percussion, and Kaleta’s virtuoso guitar and melody writing. The title, derived from a Nigerian saying, underscores the deep musical histories and lifetimes of work behind this project. Bosq and Kaleta’s seamless melding of styles and socially conscious lyrics create a rich, danceable sound that honors their musical roots while pushing creative boundaries.