8 must-listen new albums: Yasmin Williams, Leon bridges, Jazz Is Dead & more

As we kick off October, HYFIN brings you a diverse lineup of must-hear new releases for the week of October 4, 2024. This week’s selection spans genres and showcases both established artists and rising stars. From Yasmin Williams’ innovative acoustic guitar work on “Acadia” to Tee Grizzley’s introspective hip-hop on “Post Traumatic,” and from Leon Bridges’ soulful confessions on “Leon” to Victoria Monét’s expanded R&B offerings on “JAGUAR II: Deluxe,” there’s something for every musical taste. Let’s dive into these exciting new albums.

Yasmin Williams – “Acadia”

Innovative acoustic fingerstyle guitarist Yasmin Williams returns with her highly anticipated album “Acadia,” released through Nonesuch Records. This album marks a significant evolution in Williams’ musical journey, expanding beyond her renowned percussive and lap-tapping guitar techniques to embrace a broader range of folk traditions. “Acadia” features an impressive lineup of 19 guest artists, including folk-blues mainstay Dom Flemons and jazz luminaries Immanuel Wilkins and Marcus Gilmore. The album’s nine tracks, composed over a four-year period, reflect Williams’ diverse influences and experiences, particularly her time performing at folk and bluegrass festivals.

Darius Jones – “Legend of e’Boi (The Hypervigilant Eye)”

Saxophonist Darius Jones explores themes of Black mental health and the healing of personal and collective trauma in his latest release, “Legend of e’Boi (The Hypervigilant Eye).” This deeply personal album draws from Jones’s own emotional experiences to create a resonant and authentic musical journey. Backed by bassist Chris Tordini, Jones delivers a concise yet impactful set of six tracks spanning approximately 17 minutes. The album’s focus on hypervigilance and the need for affirmation and healing makes it not just a musical achievement but also a potential source of solace for listeners grappling with similar issues.

Dawn Richard & Spencer Zahn – “Quiet in a World Full of Noise”

Indie R&B singer-songwriter Dawn Richard and multi-instrumentalist Spencer Zahn collaborate on their second album, “Quiet in a World Full of Noise.” This project showcases the duo’s common collaborative ethos and eagerness to escape genre conventions. The album began with Zahn’s eerie, spacious piano tracks recorded on an unconventionally tuned instrument. Richard’s raw, unprocessed vocals channel the emotional impact of traumatic experiences into her lyrics and performances. The result is an intimate, soul-baring, and startling work that expands the definitions of progressive, avant-garde R&B.

Leon Bridges – “Leon”

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Leon Bridges releases his fourth studio album, “Leon,” described as his most confessional and autobiographical work to date. Known for his soulful voice and vintage-inspired sound, Bridges delves into childhood memories and personal experiences, showcasing a new level of vulnerability in his songwriting. The album expands Bridges’ sonic palette, incorporating elements of jazz, pop, and rootsy rock while maintaining his signature soulful approach. “Leon” represents a significant milestone in Bridges’ career, potentially solidifying his position as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary soul and R&B music.

Tee Grizzley – “Post Traumatic”

Detroit rapper Tee Grizzley delivers his most ambitious and expansive album to date with “Post Traumatic.” The 24-track project showcases Grizzley’s versatility and growth as an artist, blending his signature gritty storytelling with more introspective and vulnerable moments. Featuring collaborations with J. Cole, Future, G Herbo, and Mariah the Scientist, among others, the album explores themes of trauma, resilience, and personal growth. Grizzley navigates between hard-hitting anthems and deeply emotional tracks, offering listeners a complex portrait of his life and artistry.

Victoria Monét – “JAGUAR II: Deluxe”

Grammy-winning artist Victoria Monét expands on her critically acclaimed debut studio album with “JAGUAR II: Deluxe.” This edition features the original 11 tracks along with 10 additional songs, bringing the total to 21. New collaborations include Usher on “SOS (Sex On Sight),” Bryson Tiller on “We Might Even Be Falling In Love (Duet),” and Thundercat on “Don’t Sleep.” The deluxe album showcases Monét’s growth as an artist, blending R&B with various influences and continuing the sensual, empowering themes present in her work.

Thee Sacred Souls – “Got A Story To Tell”

San Diego-based band Thee Sacred Souls follow up their breakout 2022 self-titled debut with “Got A Story To Tell.” The album features 12 original new songs that showcase the band’s growth and maturity following extensive touring. The challenges of life on the road have resulted in a darker, more emotionally rich record that blends truth and imagination in its songwriting. Lead single “Lucid Girl” sets the tone for an album filled with immortal grooves, classic vocal harmonies, and sincere, heartfelt lyrics about love and loss.

Various Artists – “Jazz Is Dead 021”

“Jazz Is Dead 021” is a compilation album featuring new analog recordings from living legends across various genres. Produced by label founders Adrian Younge and Ali Shaheed Muhammad, the album takes listeners on a journey from the funky sounds of Ghana to the psychedelic soul and samba of Brazil. Featured artists include Ghanaian highlife pioneer Ebo Taylor, Brazilian jazz master Dom Salvador, and samba-soul duo Antonio Carlos e Jocafi. This limited release offers a diverse and vibrant collection of music that celebrates the enduring legacy of jazz and its global influences.