Earl Sweatshirt: “SICK!” (2022)

  Jan. 14 marked an important day in the world of rap music as Earl Sweatshirt released his fifth studio album, “SICK!” The record seems to hit the update button on the elusive rapper’s style in an impressively subtle way. The tracks that make up “SICK!” don’t feature traditional Earl Sweatshirt beats, tempos or styles, but they do allow listeners to see the artist in a new light. While Earl’s struggles with depression and a crumbling home life provide the majority of the subject matter on Sweatshirt’s 2013 debut “Doris,” the rapper’s latest release is optimistic. While dealing with the ever-looming pandemic as well as celebrating the birth of his first child, it is safe to say that Sweatshirt has his hands full in the new year. However, the 24 minutes of rhymes on “SICK!” show that the rapper has much more to show fans.

Highlights: “Lye,” “Vision,” “Tabula Rasa”
Rating: 7.8/10

Cordae “From a Bird’s Eye View” (2022)

  In just five short years, North Carolina rapper Cordae has become one of rap’s biggest up-and-coming stars. Cordae has collaborated with and impressed some of the biggest names in hip-hop, such as J. Cole and Dr. Dre, released a highly successful debut album “The Lost Boy” and maintained relevance during a time of minimal touring. On Jan. 13, Cordae released “From a Bird’s Eye View,” showcasing his growing confidence and ability across a wide variety of tunes. The record sounds modern at times, with in-your-face rhymes and hard-hitting drums on songs like “Super,” while songs like “Momma’s Hood” or “Want From Me” feel more retro and laid back. This sort of variety is what makes Cordae so versatile on “From a Bird’s Eye View.” As one of the members of the “new-school” in rap music, Cordae both pushes the genre further and pays respect to his idols.

Highlights: “Momma’s Hood,” “Jean-Michel,” “Champagne Glasses”

Rating: 7/10

The Wombats: “Fix Yourself, Not the World” (2022)

  Formed during the garage-rock revival of the early 2000s in Liverpool, The Wombats have been putting out music for nearly 20 years. The band’s fifth full-length album and latest effort, “Fix Yourself, Not the World” is a great example of how The Wombats have adapted to stick around the alternative rock scene for quite a long period of time. The band’s growing appreciation of elements of pop in their music has allowed their audience to diversify and grow, pushing the band further with each release. “Fix Yourself, Not the World” is truly a record for fans of any genre. Catchy melodies, driving basslines, and The Wombat’s usual indie slant deliver on so many levels. From the rigidity of songs like “People Don’t Change People, Time Does” to the calming piano featured on “Method to the Madness,” The Wombats’ latest record certainly has something for everyone.

Highlights: 6.8

Rating: “Flip Me Upside Down,” “If You Ever Leave, I’m Coming With You,” “Method to the Madness”

Snail Mail: “Valentine” (2021)

  While still falling somewhere in between Hayley Williams and Joni Mitchell, Lindsey Jordan’s second record under the moniker Snail Mail features production much more shimmering and pop-inspired than that of her 2018 album “Lush.” “Valentine” is most definitely still a rock album, yet it steps away at times through layers of instrumentation listeners have not yet heard paired with Jordan’s heart-wrenching vocals. The record also offers its listeners a chance to hear a young songwriter continue to hone and improve her vocal skills as well as her ability to write quality songs on a consistent basis. By all accounts, “Valentine” is a record about love, and the confidence behind it, but also the failures or barriers that prevent love from occurring. The title, lyrics, imagery and overall rhythmic character all serve a common purpose, wrapping around the recurring theme of love. 

Highlights: “Valentine,” “Forever (Sailing),” “Headlock” 

Rating: 8/10