10 must-listen new albums: Adrian Younge, Flo, Cordae and more

HYFIN’s weekly roundup brings you ten essential new releases that span the musical spectrum. 070 Shake explores new sonic territory with “Petrichor,” while Mary J. Blige returns with “Gratitude.” Adrian Younge presents “Linear Labs: São Paulo,” FLO debuts with “Access All Areas,” and Cordae shares “The Crossroads.” The week’s offerings include Jon Batiste’s “Beethoven Blues,” Pa Salieu’s “Afrikan Alien,” Cavalier & Child Actor’s “Cine,” a 20th-anniversary edition of MF DOOM’s “Mm…Food,” and Brother Ali’s “Satisfied Soul EP.” From hip-hop to R&B, classical fusion to soul, each release brings its perspective to this week’s musical conversation.

070 Shake – Petrichor

Fresh off her successful collaboration with RAYE and touring with Coldplay, 070 Shake returns with her third studio album. Drawing inspiration from film noir and works by Wong Kar-wai and Ingmar Bergman, “Petrichor” represents her most immersive experience yet. The project features impressive collaborations with JT of City Girls and Courtney Love. At the same time, executive production from Dave Hamelin helps create a cinematic collection that seamlessly blends genres from folk to gothic rock.

Adrian Younge – Linear Labs: São Paulo

The self-taught musician and recording engineer returns with a groundbreaking compilation spaning cultural boundaries. This nine-track project showcases Younge’s exceptional ability to unite diverse artists, featuring an all-star lineup including Snoop Dogg, Bilal, and Laetitia Sadier. The album demonstrates his commitment to pushing the boundaries of soul music while maintaining his signature sophisticated sound.

Flo – Access All Areas

This debut studio album from the English girl group marks a triumphant arrival, opening with ethereal narration from Cynthia Erivo. The 16-track collection, primarily produced by MNEK, masterfully revives the classic R&B girl group sound while incorporating contemporary elements. With standout tracks like “AAA” and “Nocturnal,” FLO proves they’re worthy successors to the girl group legacy.

Cordae – The Crossroads

Cordae’s third studio album showcases his evolution as an artist with 16 tracks of carefully crafted hip-hop. The project features notable collaborations, including two tracks with Lil Wayne, and takes a classic approach with soulful, boom-bap production. His dedication to craft shows in the aggressive deliveries and clever punchlines, sometimes rewriting verses up to eight times to achieve perfection.

Jon Batiste – Beethoven Blues (Batiste Piano Series, Vol. 1)

The Grammy winner innovates the fusion of classical and blues traditions in this first volume of his piano series. Using his “spontaneous composition” technique, Batiste transforms Beethoven’s iconic works through a blues lens, creating something new. His Juilliard training and New Orleans heritage combine to create a unique cross-cultural dialogue across 11 remarkable tracks.

Pa Salieu – Afrikan Alien

Following his release from prison, the British rapper returns with an eleven-track mixtape that speaks to resilience and freedom. Featuring collaborations with Byron Messiah, ODUMODUBLVCK, and Black Sherif, the project addresses African politics and development challenges. The artwork, incorporating the Marcus Garvey flag, symbolizes Pan-African unity.

Cavalier & Child Actor – Cine

This highly anticipated collaboration brings together Brooklyn-born, New Orleans-based rapper Cavalier with the innovative production of Child Actor. Following Cavalier’s acclaimed “Different Type Time,” this project features appearances from Quelle Chris and showcases the creative chemistry between these underground talents.

Mary J. Blige – Gratitude

The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul’s 15th studio album arrives as she celebrates her Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. The 12-track project, including collaborating with Fabolous on “Breathing,” reflects Blige’s current state of mind and success. The album precedes her upcoming For My Fans Tour with Ne-Yo and Mario.

MF DOOM – Mm…Food (20th Anniversary Edition)

This special reissue of DOOM’s classic album features exciting additions, including a new Madlib remix of “One Beer” and fresh takes on “Hoe Cakes” by Jake One and Atmosphere’s Ant. The release celebrates two decades since the original album’s debut and includes previously unreleased interview clips discussing DOOM’s artistic evolution.

Brother Ali – Satisfied Soul EP

Teaming up with legendary producer Ant, Brother Ali delivers a powerful 5-song EP combining political insight and personal revelation. The debut Mello Music Group release features dusty drums and warm vinyl crackle, creating a perfect backdrop for Ali’s preacher-like cadence and thoughtful lyrics about hope and defiance.