POP PERFECTION! Need I say more? Alright, I guess I'll let you know that I was heavily anticipating Rose's first single for her full length album to come. I knew it would eventually happen with her moving to the Black Label, but I had no clue it would be such an upbeat pop rock jam! Bruno Mars was a fantastic addition to the track and provides the exuberance that the game supposedly brings in Korea. I'm ecstatic to discover what else she brings with this album to come, if we get more stellar music at this level!
Favorite Rap Album
Chromokopia - Tyler, the Creator
Tyler, the Creator has risen up my list of artists to always check out. This project definitely solidified that spot to not be removed for some time. The album I feel gets even more personal and vulnerable than before, all while exploring the many different styles of production he's done over the years. The features all add something cool to the tracklist and I don't have a single song that I would remove from the experience. I highly suggest giving this a listen if you like hip hop that's left of center.
Favorite Kpop Album
Performante - tripleS Visionary Vision
I can swear by any tripleS project at this point. The consistency of quality is something that I can rely on without fail! The title track, Hit the Floor, brings a cool, old school hip hop feel that makes you want to dance along. Then the rest of the project continues to jump to the many genres that much of the tripleS units have hopped into before, but it never ceases to entertain. In fact, some genres they elevate like with Choom that has them touch the pop rock style, but lends itself to be compared to an anime opening. TripleS continue to prove true to their tagline: Idol of All Possibilities!
People who have been visiting Muddy Cult frequently shouldn't be surprised by my love of RUSSELL! This song was one of my favorites from the album Dearly Loved. There's also a deluxe version out now, btw. Yet Diamond Ring is now here with a video and the song has been in rotation since it dropped. RUSSELL! fully in his R&B bag has been a wonder for my playlists and I think it's only right I try to get him on yours. This is just a taste of what he has to offer.
Favorite Music Interview
Idea Generation: Tinashe - Complex
Tinashe is one of the creatives that I've enjoyed since her major label debut, Aquarius. Over the years, she's dealt with multiple ups and downs with the music industry. This interview chronicles her journey and perseverance. It's quite inspiring to witness her resilience in real time and hear her reflections on the path she's on. Her music continues to be amazing and it's great that she gets to see her hard work starting to break through once again, but on her own terms. Hope you'll enjoy checking her perspective.
Favorite Kpop Single
Pinball - Rescene
This is a group that has risen up my list of promising rookies. Their debut that included "YoYo" as a b-side made me keep tabs on them. Once "Love Attack", their latest title track dropped, I looked forward to what the rest of the EP would bring and "Pinball" is what left the biggest impression. The music throughout was all very enjoyable, but whenever Rescene comes through with the R&B influences, I think they bring out amusement that is unmatched. I think they recognized that since they decided to promote this as a second title track now with a music video and music show performances, as well. Therefore, I implore you to give this joint a chance.
Full September 2024 Favorites playlist: click here
Keeping with new tradition of 2020, 2021, and 2022, I'm excited to present to you my last.fm music stats for 2023! While 2022's stats were greatly influenced by my "research" for Miko's Music Connection, last year was dominated by my thirst for Korean hip-hop as there was quite an uptick of Korean rappers touring America.
When I heard the long-awaited album, Ultra 85, was coming, I was full of anticipation! The songs that were released to usher in the era were great, but still had me looking for the true banger of the album. If you aren't aware, I've been a Logic fan for many years and close to his start. Therefore, getting this project and its entirely reflective perspective on his life and career was extremely gratifying. On the body of work is a few songs that encapsulate it well, but none better than this powerful, concise, and entertaining single. That's why I wanted to share this particular song with you this month!
Favorite Music Interview
Tyler, the Creator on Mavericks with Mav Carter
Tyler, the Creator, has truly grown into an artist that I can get behind. Early in his career, I've been appreciative of his production and quirky videos from time to time. Though, once he pivoted the content a bit and truly let his love of the art of music and video shine through, I saw it as the green light to finally jump on the Tyler train. This interview takes a look at his career and his view on the industry as someone who's always gone against the grain. I like quite a few of his takes and was intrigued at his look back at the trail he has blazed so far. Maybe you'll get a kick out it, too.
Favorite TV Interview
Bel-Air Roundtable
At the time of writing this, Bel-Air season 3 will be wrapping up this week. It has been a crazy, fun ride through summertime with the cast. There has been drama, laughs, and awesome cameos. The show continued to keep me entertained and happy that Peacock continues to give it a chance. I truly believe more people should do the same, since even when Will Smith looks at this new dramatized version that he produced in this reboot, he's proud of the new lessons and themes the series is able to present. I highly recommend the show and this interview about the third season, if you were unaware of this phenomenal reimagination of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
