NYS Music 2023

Tag: New Album

  • Westside Gunn Drops Star-Studded LP ‘And Then You Pray For Me’

    Critically-acclaimed Buffalo native, Westside Gunn, continues to push the envelope on his “underground” status with the release of his latest LP, And Then You Pray For Me. Released this past Friday, the star-studded project features a host of hip hop heavy hitters along with a mesh of styles and sub-genres. All in all, showcasing the Griselda head honcho’s status within the game.

    Westside Gunn "And Then You Pray For Me" album cover
    ‘And Then Your Pray For Me” album cover

    The Making of “And Then You Pray For Me”

    Furthermore, the self proclaimed “FlyGod” took a unique approach to the creation of And Then You Pray For Me, recording most of the album overseas. Immersing himself in inspiring locals, he laid down tracks in Paris, Athens, London, and Denmark. Subsequently, as Westside Gunn cements his place in hiphop folklore, he has begun to experiment with different sounds. After years of maintaining an air of creativity and cultural fluidity with his keen fashion sense, expressive styles and interest in art, this has begun to manifest itself in his music — which has long fed the streets with a combination of boom bap and luxury drug raps. While the new experimental sounds have been well received, it has led to questions on whether Westside Gunn’s loyalty to the boom bap sound that gained him relevance has begun to waiver.

    After all, the 21-track project boasts contributions from legendary figures such as RZA, Rick Ross, Jeezy and DJ Drama. While contemporary stars the Iikes of Ty Dolla $ign, J.I.D., EST Gee and producer Tay Keith make appearances with the addition of British rapper, Giggs, for a bit of European flair. Meanwhile, And Then You Pray For Me maintains its gritty feel with appearances from Griselda cohorts and fellow underground stars. Particularly, Benny The Butcher, Conway The Machine, Stove God Cooks, Rome Street and longtime producers Conductor Williams and Derringer grace the project. Ultimately culminating in an electric blend of trap, boom bap with remnants of R&B & soul samples.

    Virgil Abloh Tribute

    I have Virgil Abloh doing my artwork and who left on earth can say that. I cannot disrespect his legacy, he’s immortal and I feel this is his way of blessing me; even though he’s not here in the physical. 

    – Westside Gunn

    In a heartfelt tribute to the late Virgil Abloh, a close friend of Westside Gunn, the renowned Off-White creative designed the artwork for And Then You Pray For Me.  Abloh, known for his innovative and boundary-pushing designs, also created the iconic cover for Westside Gunn’s 2020 album, Pray For Paris. This latest collaboration between Abloh and Westside Gunn is a testament to their enduring friendship and creative synergy. 

  • Hearing Aide: DJ Premier ‘Beats That Collected Dust, Vol 3’

    In an ode to hip hop, DJ Premier has released the third edition of his “Beats That Collected Dust” series via his self-founded To The Top (TTT) record label imprint. “I wanted to have a label that would keep the street, gutter stuff in its own lane, one where I could release anything I wanted, how I wanted and where I wanted,” Premier revealed to HipHopDX.

    Beats That Collected Dust Vol. 3 is the first edition in 10 years, completing the trilogy of classic hip hop beats amid hip hop’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

    The legendary scratch DJ remains continues to evolve and reinvent himself. He was just nominated for a Latin Grammy Award for his collaboration on “Le Pido A Dios” with Feid. Later, he starred in a time-traveling, five-decade spanning commercial with Don Toliver which MTV used to segue-way into the recent VMA’s 50th Hip Hop Anniversary tribute performance. 

    However, despite his contemporary success, it’s apparent that ‘Preme remains dedicated to hip hop in its purest form. After all, the Grammy-winning producer has been behind the boards for some of the rap music’s historic records. And ultimately, Beats That Collected Dust became a fan favorite due to the series’ personal nature. After all, these are records that DJ Premier produced specifically for other artists that did not make album cuts.

  • Karina Rykman Delivers Compelling Debut Album ‘JOYRIDE’

    Karina Rykman has just released her debut album JOYRIDE for all to stream and enjoy. The nine-track project comes just ahead of her 2023 tour, beginning September 20 with multiple festival appearances before hand.

    In light, Rykman’s debut album has been highly anticipated since its announcement, due to the singer’s uniqueness and ability to captivate an audience. Moreover, she brings an original style to fans as the album thoroughly captures Rykman’s jubilant brand of sonic exploration. Additionally bridging an array of genres to arrive at her own take on psychedelic indie rock. With this intention, the album includes the artist’s newest single “All That You Wanted” which features vocal accompaniment from Veronica Stewart-Frommer of Melt, as well as guitars from Melt guitarist Marlo Shankweiler and Phish’s Trey Anastasio.

    About the Album

    Equally important is that JOYRIDE features Trey Anastasio as co-producer and featured musician, contributing guitar on five of the album’s nine tracks. In turn, Anastasio has taken a profound interest in being a part of Rykman’s debut album, since encountering each other at 2021’s Peach Music Festival in Scranton, PA. As well as the Phish frontman offering the use of his storied Vermont studio, The Barn, along with the suggestion to work with renowned mixer Bryce Goggin, the collaboration was set right from the start.

    Moreover, in celebration of the release, Rykman will finish up her summer schedule and head out on her largest headlined tour yet, visiting New York nooks with a sold out show in Brooklyn and a performance in Lake George.

    Although her headline tour truly begins September 20th, the artist will perform in select music festivals all over the states including Thornville, OH’s Secret Dreams Music & Arts Festival, Cockeysville, MD’s Hot August Music Festival, Lake George, NY’s Adirondack Independence Music Festival, and many more. Meanwhile fans can catch the artist at the shows shown below or can simply meander to any streaming service to listen to JOYRIDE.

    JOYRIDE TOUR 2023

    August 18th – Thornville, OH – Secret Dreams Music & Arts Festival *

    August 19th – Cockeysville, MD – Hot August Music Festival *

    September 1st -3rd – Lake George, NY – Adirondack Independence Music Festival *

    September 9th – Indianapolis, IN – All In Music & Arts Festival *

    September 10th – Mundelein, IL – The Miracle In Mundelein *

    September 15th – Fredericton, NB – Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival *

    September 16th – Greenfield, MA – Wormtown Music Festival

    September 17th – East Aurora, NY – Borderland Music Festival *

    September 20th – Brooklyn, NY – Baby’s All Right (SOLD OUT)

    September 21st – Asbury Park, NJ – Wonder Bar †

    September 22nd – Baltimore, MD – The 8×10 †

    September 23rd – Richmond, VA – The Camel †

    September 25th – Raleigh, NC – The Pour House Music Hall †

    September 26th – Asheville, NC – Asheville Music Hall †

    September 28th – Charleston, SC – The Charleston Pour House †

    September 29th – Atlanta, GA – Aisle 5 †

    September 30th – Nashville, TN – The Blue Room at Third Man Records †

    October 27th – San Diego, CA – Winstons Beach Club †

    October 28th – Los Angeles, CA – Venice West †

    October 29th – San Francisco, CA – The Chapel †

    November 1st – Cave Junction, OR – Bruno’s Cavern †

    November 2nd – Bend, OR – Volcanic Theatre Pub †

    November 3rd – Portland, OR – Polaris Hall †

    November 4th – Seattle, WA – High Dive †

    December 1st – Burlington, VT – Nectar’s

    December 2nd – Burlington, VT – Nectar’s

    December 3rd – Portland, ME – Portland House of Music and Events

    December 15th – Philadelphia, PA – MilkBoy

    December 16th – Boston, MA – Sonia

    * Festival Appearance

    † w/ Special Guests Guerilla Toss

  • Brooklyn Duo Hunter & Wolfe Release New Full-Length Album ‘I Deserve This’

    Brooklyn-based indie-rock duo hunter & wolfe released their new full-length album, I deserve this. The group, made up of Michael Maffei and Sundeep Kapur, previously released singles in anticipation of the album release, such as “Last Time,” “Famous Friends,” and “When I Wake Up,” each of which has a sound reminiscent of indie-rockers like Elliot Smith and St. Vincent.

    To further celebrate the release of their new album, hunter & wolfe have also shared a lyric video for the album’s focus track, “Go For It.” As Maffei wrote on the track: “‘Go For It’ is a song about the phase of denial and loneliness that can come from loss. I’d recently lost a friend and wrote about the thread between those feelings and those I’d experienced from previous losses in my life.”

    About hunter & wolfe

    The Brooklyn-based indie duo has a unique way of conveying complicated emotions, often pairing them with sarcasm and loud indie-rock stylings. The group draws inspiration from notable artists of the indie genre, including Elliot Smith, St. Vincent, Phoebe Bridgers, and more.

    Hunter & wolfe released their first album back in 2011, a self-titled EP, and a full-length album, Days and Works. Their most recent album, Late Then Never, has been recognized on several platforms, and featured in Spotify’s Fresh Finds, Impose Magazine, and The Deli Magazine among others.

    The group’s most recent album, I deserve this., was written through sleepless nights about sleepless nights. The album is truly about the self-importance to think you deserve something, paired with the self-loathing to think that what you deserve is nothing good. Vocalist Michael Maffei and guitarist Sundeep Kapur’s message of ennui, lost love, and the paradox of choice in the modern era reflect both seriousness and the self-awareness to not take themselves too seriously.

    The songs were written by Michael Maffei, and the record was co-produced by Asher Kurtz, Sundeep Kapur, and Michael Maffei. The record features Michael Maffei (vocals, guitar, piano), Sundeep Kapur (lead guitar), Anders Kapur (bass), Sean Mullins (drums, percussion), Chris Baum (violin), and Asher Kurtz (guitar). It also features vocals from Asher Kurtz (Anyone) and Gabbi Coenen of RVBY MY DEAR (Laugh Lines).

    Listen to I deserve this. here, and view the lyric video to “Go For It” below.

  • Hearing Aide: Micky James ‘Loner of the Year’ EP

    On July 21, 2023, NYC by way of Philadelphia artist Micky James released his new EP, Loner of the Year. The album features Micky’s signature sound – a mix of glam and grit, paired with glittery guitars and themes of nostalgia throughout. As indicated by the title, Micky dedicates his five-track EP to the loners.

    “I want people to know that it’s important to embrace all of the things that make each and everyone of us unique,” states Micky in a recent interview with PEOPLE. “It can be frightening sometimes to free our most authentic selves, only by carving our own path can we feel truly liberated.”

    The album opens with “New York Minute,” an upbeat, nostalgic tune, reminiscent of 2000s pop-rock. The catchy, somewhat gritty melody establishes a summertime feel to the album. The song serves as a celebration of misfits and their individuality, all while reminding listeners that life moves fast, so enjoy the dysfunction that comes with being young.

    The album’s title track, “Loner of the Year,” further captures the complicated emotions that come with accepting our authentic selves. Despite the melody’s upbeat feel, the lyrics tell a story of a hopeless sort of loneliness, a narration of difficulties experienced by many. The song’s message, paired with its pop tune, is reminiscent of a coming-of-age movie soundtrack, with an optimistic twist at the end, reminding all of us that life goes on, and such loneliness can pass.

    “James Brown,” the third track on the album, has an edgy, raw feel, but still brings out the nostalgic sound of 2010s pop-rock. In contrast to “Loner of the Year,” “James Brown” shows an embrace of uniqueness rather than disdain.

    Of all the tracks on Loner of the Year, “Girl Talk” best showcases Micky James’ strong vocals. The flirtatious pop anthem compels attention from the listener through a range of James’ well-rounded, broad, captivating vocals. The song’s catchy melody conveys a sense of confidence through lyrics like “keep my name on your lips now honey,” in comparison to the anxiety in “Loner of the Year,” unveiling an emotional journey throughout the album.

    “Losing You” concludes the album with an engaging summer breakup anthem, capturing the complicated emotions associated with it. James conveys the struggle between understanding a relationship must come to an end, all while reminiscing on the good times and memories, making it “never a good time to say goodbye.”

    The album maintains its nostalgic ambiance and consistently upbeat 2000s/2010s pop-rock vibe from start to finish. Whether seeking a track to unpack intricate emotions, or a catchy melody just for summer ambiance, Loner of the Year offers a brief yet enjoyable musical experience.

    About Micky James

    Born and raised in the shadows of Philadelphia and NYC, Micky James developed a passion for music and the theatrical at a young age and aspired to become a performer. His music and personal style embody a sound and aesthetic that is nostalgic for a bygone era in rock-n-roll music, all while conveying a contemporary pop ambition.

    His vocals are reminiscent of notable voices like David Bowie and Julian Casablancas, referencing the uniquely dark, enigmatic, and romantic attributes associated with those artists. While James’ flamboyant fashions are reminiscent of the glamour and swagger of past rock icons, his work is both equal parts style and substance.

    Inspired by the energy of iconic ’60s and ’70s rock bands, he creates a modern, fresh approach to a timeless genre. “I wanted to take pieces of nostalgia and give it a contemporary twist,” he explains, successfully taking his vision and turning it into reality. In July 2020, Micky James released “Kings,” which garnered critical acclaim, with one critic calling it “a defiant uprising of the generationally damned and distinguished, as well as the most authentic rock n roll you’ve heard in years.”

    Listen to Loner of the Year here.

  • Nas Releases 5th Hit-boy Collab With ‘Magic 2’

    Nas continues his prolific run with his 16th studio album, Magic 2. Since the release of Nasir in 2018 — his first under his Mass Appeal label — the legendary rapper has been on a resurgent run. That’s to say nothing of Nas’ status within hip hop. However, the last few years have seen the fabled rapper get the mainstream acknowledgment his career deserves, winning his first grammy-award in 2021 for King’s Disease.

    Nas releases his 16th studio album Magic
    Magic 2 is Nas’ 5th collaborative project with Hit-Boy in the last 3 years

    Magic 2: Nas and Hit-Boy Continue to Create

    In like manner, Magic 2 sees Nas’ continue his career victory lap. The 11-track album is another collaborative effort with now-frequent cohort Hit-Boy. This latest release is the duo’s fifth combined effort in the last 3 years, beginning with King’s Disease. Short and succinct, the album’s only two features — 50 Cent and 21 Savage — showcase Nas’ range in the current hip hop landscape.

    Notably, burying the hatchet with a former rival and fellow Queens native in 50 Cent on “Office Hours.” The two rap legends last worked together in 2002, with Nas featuring on two songs on 50 Cent’s mixtape Guess Who’s Back? In like manner, Nas exchanges bars with one of contemporary rap’s hottest stars in 21 Savage on the album outro “One Mic, One Gun.” In effect demonstrating the versatility in cadences and flows during this latest Hit-Boy run.

    All in all, the grammy-winning producer has been instrumental in Nas fortifying his legacy. Despite his icon status and classic albums, the Queensbridge native has maintained a reputation for not picking the best beats. Together with Hit-Boy Nas has gone a long way towards shedding the skin of being another older rapper. With a healthy mix of contemporary sounds and boom bap records Magic 2 sees Nas and Hit-Boy continue to create more well… Magic.

  • Rick Hyde Tabs Benny The Butcher for ‘Streets Ain’t The Same’ With New Album Set for August 4

    Benny The Butcher‘s Black Soprano Family imprint continues to flood the streets. This time, Buffalo native Rick Hyde takes aim with his latest single “Streets Ain’t The Same” in anticipation of his new album, LUPARA. Featuring Benny The Butcher and El Camino on the chorus, the record sees Rick & Benny go-back-and forth while recounting their rise and grind as hustlers. “‘Streets Ain’t The Same’ is self-explanatory in a sense,” explains Rick Hyde. “After the trials and tribulations and losses, it’s just difficult for things to return to normalcy. That’s where we were at on this record,” he continues. “I asked Benny to go back and forth with me and he agreed. We just started speaking our perspectives, no pens, or paper, just pure lyricism. That’s the joy of this record. Long live DJ Shay!”

    Rick Hyde, Benny The Butcher and EL Camino team up for "Streets Ain't The Same."

    Slated for an August 4 release, LUPARA will be Rick Hyde’s second BSF project. His 2021 debut, Plates 2, featured a mix of contemporary stars and underground legends the likes of Benny The Butcher, Westside Gunn, A$AP Ferg, G Herbo, Meyhem Lauren and Skyzoo with production from The Alchemist, Harry Fraud, Daringer and the late DJ Shay. Quickly following that up with 2022’s STIMA, Rick Hyde now prepares for the release of his third project in as many years. 

    Meanwhile, LUPARA will continue the run of a Black Soprano Family release every month of 2023. All in all, Benny and the BSF team continue to make their names heard. In like manner Head Honcho and Griselda mainstay Benny The Butcher continues to take helm of his own label imprint. Much like the blueprint set by Griselda, Benny’s artists are all of a similar street ilk, making for seamless transition into the BSF fold sonically, with Benny featuring in many of his artists songs and projects.

  • MVW and Valee Release ‘Could Be’ and ‘Pistachio’ in Anticipation of New Album

    Suis generis producer MVW continues to flood the streets with a run of ear-catching singles. Coupled with vocals from frequent collaborator Valee, MVW delivered fans the Groovy sounding “Pistachio” and “Could Be,” a straightfoward take on the two artists musical philosophy. The two records offer a taste into how MVW plans to build on his sound, or add to what’s working. Namely, “Could Be” is a piano and Hi Hat laced track that sees Valee chime in with his laidback delivery. In a 2-minute loop MVW’s ominous piano riffs set the tone as Valee illustrate through various luxury items on the grand lifestyle that “Could Be” for his romantic partners.

    MVW and Vale continue their run of ear-catching singles.
    MVW (right) and Valee (left) embark on their latest musical journey

    In a similar vein, the Zelooperz assisted “Pistachio” brings a lively twist to MVW’s classic-trap blend. Likewise, Valee brings his colorful idioms, characterizations and laid-back delivery in toasting to the pistachio-colored seats of their luxury car, with each emcee bringing a whimsical confidence in their verses. The sonics, courtesy of MVW, sway with an addictive nocturnal funk. His classical roots at play, adding gorgeous hum of woodwinds giving the record a grand feel.

    “‘Pistachio’ was a special track that was made together with Valee, Zelooperz, and I one night in LA all together, last summer, MVW reveals. “As soon as Valee began laying the hook, there was a particular feeling in the air, the rest was history. I can’t really put my finger on it, but I’ll never look at Pistachios the same.”

    VALEEDATION will see MVW and Valee continue to grow into one of the best duos in hip hop

    Valee and MVW’s VALEEDATION

    These records are a continuation of MVW’s musical journey. Beginning as a classical composer and building himself up as a respected hip hop producer. In doing so, MVW has since worked alongside some of the industry’s best up-and-coming and established artists alike. His steady collaborative efforts with Valee have been a defining staple throughout this time.

    Fittingly, the former Classical composer will release his third hip hop album in as many years this July. However, this installation of classical-trap symphonies will come alongside frequent collaborator Valee, as the duo embark on a full-album journey that their musical synergy demands. Slated for a September release date, VALEEDATION will be a chance for a MVW and Valee to establish themselves as a preeminent duo with unrivaled chemistry.

  • Fivio Foreign Releases Surprise EP ‘Without Warning’ With Ye as Sole Feature

    Fivio Foreign surprised fans with an unannounced 8-track EP titled, Without Warning. The unplanned mid-week release features Ye — formerly Kanye West — as the only guest on the song “Concussion.” Executive produced by managers Elliott Hardaman & Kahran Reefer, this latest project seems to have been strictly for his die-hard fans. In like manner, the free EP is only available on Soundcloud and Youtube and no other DSPs.

    Along with the EP, Fivio and his team released a 15-minute “Without Warning” documentary where the “City of Gods” rapper shared the thought-process behind this surprise release. In addition, Fivio pays ode to his fallen friend TDott Woo, who was fatally shot in the Brooklyn neighborhood both artists frequented. The album’s opening track is titled “T DOT BACC,” sees him pay tribute to his friend by angrily rapping “how many opps I got to kill? I’m trying to bring TDott back.”

    All in all, Without Warning sees Fivio return to his roots of sorts. Consequently, the catchy samples and expensive features that littered throughout his debut are not there. Rather, the project is laced with the fast-paced drill beats that have become synonymous with Fivio. Additionally, Fivio maintains his charisma, flow and contagious dialect that has made him the preeminent representative of New York hip hop culture.

  • Post Malone Returns to the States for ‘If Ya’ll Weren’t Here I’d Be Crying’ Tour

    Diamond-selling, pop superstar Post Malone will return to the United States with another leg of the “If Y’all Weren’t Here, I’d Be Crying” Tour. This announcement follows his highly successful trek across the U.S. and Canada last year and another stop in Europe for his long-awaited “Twelve Carat Tour.” However, the 10-time Grammy nominee returns to America to give fans his signature exhilarating performance, along with music from his upcoming album as well as fan-favorites in a completely reimagined show.  

    Produced by Live Nation, the 24-date run kicks off in Noblesville, IN, on July 8, and includes a stop at Darien Lake Amphitheater in Darien Center, NY, on Monday, July 17, 2023.

    “I love y’all so very much and I’m so excited to get out and do some more shows for y’all. Help me put a baby through college and come on out. Some cool new production, new songs, and a very very handsome man up on stage. Sending love to you and yours.” Says Post Malone.

    Along with the tour announcement, Post has revealed the released date for his long-awaited fifth full-length album. Titled, Austin, the project will arrive on July 28, with Post releasing the single “Mourning,” in anticipation.

    Tickets for the tour can be found on the Live Nation’s website, although the tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, access to the World Pong League VIP Lounge, exclusive VIP gift items and more. For more information, visit vipnation.com.