9 must-listen new albums: Nubya Garcia, Future, BLACKSTARKIDS & more

This week’s new releases offer a diverse palette of sounds, from jazz odysseys to hip-hop masterpieces. Nubya Garcia takes us on a genre-bending journey with “Odyssey,” while BLACKSTARKIDS delivers nostalgic indie hip-hop on “Saturn Dayz.” The Alchemist drops another producer showcase with “The Genuine Articulate,” and Blu & Exile returns with their thoughtful hip-hop on “Love (the) Ominous World.” Future revisits his roots with “Mixtape Pluto,” MC Lyte makes a triumphant return after a decade with “1 of 1,” and Marcos Valle bridges eras on “Tunel Acustico.” Dave Guy steps into the spotlight with his debut “Ruby,” Xenia Manasseh continues her exploration of R&B with “Love/Hate Pt. 2.”

Nubya Garcia – Odyssey

London-born saxophonist Nubya Garcia’s latest album “Odyssey” lives up to its ambitious title. Released via Concord Jazz, this project sees Garcia expanding her sonic palette, incorporating strings and collaborating with notable artists like esperanza spalding. The album traverses jazz, classical, R&B, and dub, showcasing Garcia’s growth as a composer and her increasing prominence in a male-dominated scene.

BLACKSTARKIDS – Saturn Dayz

The Kansas City trio BLACKSTARKIDS returns with their sixth studio album, “Saturn Dayz.” Known for their unique blend of hip-hop, indie rock, and pop, infused with 1990s nostalgia, the band continues to push boundaries. This release, their first since 2022’s “CYBERKISS*,” has been highly anticipated by fans and critics alike, especially following the success of their single “SOULMATEZ!”

The Alchemist – The Genuine Articulate

Prolific producer The Alchemist delivers his third album of 2024 with “The Genuine Articulate.” Released through his own ALC label, this eight-track project features an impressive roster of guest artists, including ScHoolboy Q, Action Bronson, and Conway the Machine. The album promises to showcase The Alchemist’s signature production style and his ability to bring out the best in his collaborators.

Blu & Exile – Love (the) Ominous World

Hip-hop duo Blu & Exile continue their creative partnership with “Love (the) Ominous World.” This 12-track album features Blu’s introspective lyricism over Exile’s soulful production. While it may not reach the heights of their most celebrated works, it stands as a solid addition to their discography, featuring guest appearances from Georgia Anne Muldrow and Fashawn.

Future – Mixtape Pluto

Atlanta rapper Future looks to his past with “Mixtape Pluto,” his third project of 2024. This 17-track release aims to capture the essence of Future’s early career, with production from heavyweights like Wheezy and Southside. The mixtape’s cover art pays homage to Future’s roots, featuring his aunt’s home where the Dungeon Family used to record.

MC Lyte – 1 of 1

Hip-hop icon MC Lyte makes a triumphant return with “1 of 1,” her first body of work in over a decade. Executive produced by Warryn Campbell, the album features collaborations with Big Daddy Kane, Salt, and Raheem DeVaughn. Lyte’s signature blend of love, braggadocio, and storytelling is expected to shine through, reaffirming her legendary status in hip-hop.

Marcos Valle – Tunel Acustico

Brazilian music legend Marcos Valle releases his twenty-third studio album, “Túnel Acústico.” This project bridges Valle’s past and present, featuring reimagined songs from his late 1970s West Coast period alongside new compositions. The album showcases Valle’s ability to blend bossa nova, samba, and jazz with contemporary sounds, featuring collaborations with Joyce Moreno, Céu, and members of Azymuth.

Dave Guy – Ruby

Renowned trumpeter Dave Guy enters the spotlight with his debut solo album, “Ruby.” Known for his work with The Roots on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” and collaborations with artists like Amy Winehouse and Lizzo, Guy blends his jazz roots with funk, soul, and hip-hop influences. Recorded at NYC’s Diamond Mine studio, “Ruby” promises to be a vibrant showcase of Guy’s distinctive musical voice.

Xenia Manasseh – Love/Hate Pt. 2

Kenyan-Ugandan songstress Xenia Manasseh follows up her 2023 debut with “Love/Hate Pt. 2.” Based in Los Angeles, Manasseh continues her exploration of R&B and Neo-Soul with deeply personal and introspective songwriting. Her latest single “Bad Side” offers a taste of the emotional depth and soulful vocals listeners can expect from this sophomore effort.