While Jazz is probably the genre I listen to most, I also listen to many others, including Hip-Hop, Soul, R&B, Alternative, Electronic, etc…so after two posts dedicated to my favorite Jazz albums of 2017, I would like to share my favorites from all the other Genres! Let me know some of your favorites by posting them in the comments section!
Nai Palm-Needlepaw
Nai Palm, lead singer of the future-soul quartet Hiatus Kaiyote, released this debut solo project late in the year, and since i’m a big fan of hers, I couldn’t wait to get my hand on this one…The raw, stripped down acoustic arrangements are a perfect device to showcase her vocal prowess, as well as her funky guitar. Be sure to check out “Crossfire/So Into You”
Lana Del Rey-Lust For Life
This album, with its breathy vocals, and grand soundscapes, truly captivates the listener, whisking you away to some alternate universe. This is a beautiful effort, a welcome reprieve from the usual radio-friendly formulas. Check out the title track “Lust for Life”
Mr. Jukes-God First
Pop, Funk, Soul, Rock, Electronica, & Hip-Hop all join forces on this rousing collection of gems. The song “Grant Green” featuring the late Charles Bradley was featured on the commercial for Google’s Pixel 2 smartphone, and for good reason, because it, like the rest of the songs on this album, gets you excited!
Jidenna-Boomerang (EP)
Rapper/Singer Jidenna dropped this surprise EP in November, paying homage to his Nigerian roots with several collabs featuring some of the hottest African pop stars. With its hot tropical beats and pumped up afro-beat rhythms, this short but sweet project is infectious. Be sure to check out the title track “Boomerang”
Chicano Batman-“Freedom is Free”
Chicano Batman is a Latino band which rides the wave of soul-blues-funk revival popularized by groups such as Alabama Shakes and Sharon Jones, but with a psychedelic rock twist. They lift you up on a wave of guitar riffs just to lay you back down gently on a bed of lovely background vocals. Their vocals and instrumentation are so exquisite, I can’t believe these guys are not a household name yet. Be sure to check out “Friendship (Is a Small Boat In a Storm)”
I’m an audio writer who started as a young audio salesman/consumer electronics professional back in the late 90s. That’s where I discovered the magic of 2-Channel sound. My thirst for great sound has led me on a delightful music quest that continues today.
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