NTTR - No Time to Review

"The Breeze Grew a Fire" is a deeply introspective album where Mereba refines her fusion of R&B, soul, and folk. The record features hushed, atmospheric production and poetic storytelling, with highlights such as "Ever Needed" and "Out of the Blue" . The album’s themes explore love, freedom, and self-reflection, with subtle nods to her Ethiopian heritage. While its calm, meditative sound is appreciated, some critics feel it lacks dynamic variation. Genre : Alternative R&B Country : US Final Verdict : 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 23th / 165 Highlight : Ever Needed Made me think of: Ravyn Lenae Amber Mark Lianne La Havas #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AlternativeR&B #Mereba #US #LP #Album #release  

Charlotte Day Wilson's sophomore album, Cyan Blue , released on May 3, 2024, showcases her growth as a multifaceted artist, seamlessly blending soulful melodies with introspective lyricism. Self-produced alongside Jack Rochon, the album features collaborations with artists like Snoh Aalegra on the track "Forever," adding depth to its rich soundscapes. Critics praise Wilson's sultry vocals and the album's cohesive exploration of love and personal growth, noting its entrancing melodies and rhythmic grooves. Overall, Cyan Blue is considered a testament to Wilson's refined artistry, offering a captivating listening experience that resonates with emotional authenticity. Sources: Northern Transmissions RANGE The Spill Magazine Genre : Alternative R&B Country : Canada Final Verdict : 56% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 927th / 1018 Highlight : Forever Made me think of: Arlo Parks Jamila Woods Amber Mark #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albu...

Tinashe's seventh studio album, Quantum Baby , released on August 16, 2024, serves as the second installment in her planned trilogy, following 2023's BB/Ang3l . The album comprises eight tracks, including the viral hit single "Nasty," which gained popularity on TikTok and became her highest-charting solo single since 2014's "2 On." Critics praise Quantum Baby for its concise yet impactful composition, highlighting Tinashe's dynamic vocal performances and seamless blend of sensual slow jams with pop-infused dance tracks. However, some reviewers note that the album's brevity leaves listeners wanting more, suggesting that while it showcases Tinashe's versatility, it may benefit from a more extended exploration of its themes. Overall, Quantum Baby reinforces Tinashe's position as a multifaceted independent artist, adept at navigating the complexities of modern R&B and pop music. Sources: Pitchfork Slant Magazine Resident Advisor Genre...

Fousheé's third studio album, Pointy Heights , released on September 13, 2024, via RCA Records, marks a significant evolution in her musical journey. Drawing deeply from her Jamaican heritage, the album blends alternative R&B, indie rock, and reggae influences, creating a distinctive sound that pays homage to her roots. The title references a plot of land in Jamaica owned by her grandfather, symbolizing a personal connection that permeates the project. Critics have praised the album's rich instrumentation and off-kilter melodies, noting its reference to 70s ska and reggae with a gritty, new wave twist. Tracks like "birds, bees" and "war" showcase Fousheé's versatility, seamlessly integrating elements of her cultural background into contemporary music. Collaborations with producers such as Steve Lacy, Carter Lang, and Solomonophonic contribute to the album's eclectic sound, enhancing its appeal across diverse audiences. Overall, Pointy Heights is...

Ruthven's debut album, Rough & Ready , released on October 25, 2024, via Paul Institute and XL Recordings, showcases his unique blend of alternative R&B and neo-soul. The album features 12 tracks, including singles like "I Can't Go There" and "Don't Keep It to Yourself," highlighting Ruthven's soulful vocals and intricate production. Critics praise the album's fusion of sharp synths and drum machines, reminiscent of early Prince B-sides, with the smokiness of Voodoo-era D'Angelo. The production, notably by A.K. Paul, adds a luxurious and playful '80s/'90s R&B soul aesthetic to the project. Overall, Rough & Ready is considered a testament to Ruthven's commitment to creating deeply personal and relatable music, marking a significant entry into the contemporary R&B scene. Sources: musicOMH Bandcamp Album of The Year Genre : Alternative R&B Country : UK Final Verdict: 59% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 7...

skaiwater's #gigi is a dynamic fusion of genres, blending elements of alternative R&B, pop rap, and Jersey club to craft a distinctive sound. Primarily self-produced, the album showcases skaiwater's versatility, with tracks like "real feel" and "richest girl alive" highlighting innovative production and emotive vocals. Collaborations with artists such as Lil Nas X on "light!" add depth and mainstream appeal to the project. Critics have noted the album's ability to amalgamate diverse influences into a cohesive and engaging listening experience. Overall, #gigi positions skaiwater as a promising artist pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. Pitchfork Genre : Alternative R&B Country : UK Final Verdict : 56% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 897th / 968 Highlight : Real Feel Made me think of: Lil Uzi Vert Playboi Carti Don Toliver #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscove...

070 Shake's third studio album, Petrichor , released on November 15, 2024, delves into the complexities of love and self-discovery through a genre-blending soundscape. Collaborating with producer Dave Hamelin and composer Johan Lenox, Shake departs from her previous foggy synths and heavy vocal processing, embracing guitars, piano, and raw, emotive lyrics. The album features notable collaborations, including "Song to the Siren," a cover of Tim Buckley's classic, featuring Courtney Love. Critics praise Petrichor for its expansive vision and Shake's fearless exploration of emotional depths, solidifying her position as a boundary-pushing artist in contemporary music. [ https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/070-shake-petrichor/ ] [ https://www.nme.com/reviews/album/070-shake-petrichor-review-3813042 ] [ https://music.apple.com/us/album/petrichor/1770831839 ] Genre : Alternative R&B Country : US Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 547th / 960 Highligh...

Laila!'s debut album, Gap Year! , released on September 6, 2024, showcases her multifaceted talent as a vocalist, songwriter, and producer. The 18-year-old artist, daughter of Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def), delivers a collection that blends alternative R&B with neo-soul, capturing the essence of youthful introspection and emotional depth. Tracks like "Talent Show" and "R U Down?" highlight her vocal versatility and candid lyricism, exploring themes of love, self-discovery, and vulnerability. Critics commend the album's sincerity and Laila!'s ability to convey complex emotions with authenticity. While some note that the 17-track length may lead to occasional repetitiveness, the album's heartfelt narratives and innovative production establish Laila! as a promising new voice in contemporary R&B. ( Pitchfork Uproxx KCOU ) Genre : Alternative R&B Country : US Final Verdict: 59% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 737th / 936 Highlight : Not...

KAYTRANADA's third studio album,  Timeless , released on June 7, 2024, showcases his signature fusion of electronic, R&B, and hip-hop elements, further refining the sound established in his previous works,  99.9%  and  Bubba . The album features collaborations with artists such as Childish Gambino, Anderson .Paak, Thundercat, and Tinashe, each bringing their unique flair to the project. Tracks like "Spit It Out," featuring Rochelle Jordan, and "Call U Up," with Lou Phelps, highlight KAYTRANADA's ability to craft danceable rhythms infused with groovy keys and compelling beats. Critics have noted that while the album maintains a cohesive and engaging flow, some tracks may feel repetitive. Overall,  Timeless  stands as a testament to KAYTRANADA's evolving artistry, offering a vibrant and enjoyable listening experience that bridges multiple genres. ( pitchfork .com   nme .com   exclaim .ca ) Genre : Alternative R&B Country : Canada Final Verdi...

Lover, Other marks Rosie Lowe's most experimental and cohesive work to date, blending her love for choral music, intricate electronic production, and R&B. The album, featuring standout tracks like “Mood to Make Love” and “Bezerk,” offers a sonic exploration of love’s complexities—from intimacy to doubt, wrapped in cinematic and jazzy layers. Lowe's precise production showcases her range, seamlessly mixing live energy with textured, sample-based sounds. A deeply introspective record, Lover, Other highlights Lowe’s growth as both a singer and producer​ ( The Arts Desk , The Upcoming , Worldwide FM ) . Genre : Alternative R&B Country : UK Final Verdict: 55% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 610th / 641 Highlight : Walk in the Park Made me think of: Jorja Smith FKA Twigs Tirzah #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AlternativeR&B #RosieLowe #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Alternative R&B Country : South Korea Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 292th / 434 Highlight : Back to One Made me think of: Jamie xx Kelela FKA Twigs #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AlternativeR&B #PeggyGou #SouthKorea #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Alternative R&B Country : US Final Verdict: 57% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 99th / 116 Highlight : Spades Made me think of: Frank Ocean Moses Sumney Sampha #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AlternativeRnB #serpentwithfeet #US #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Alternative R&B Country : US Final Verdict: 67% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 203th / 1026 Highlight : Graceland Made me think of: Kevin Abstract Tyler, The Creator Smino #newalbum #newalbum2023 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AlternativeR&B #PortraitsOfTracy #US #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Alternative R&B Country : UK Final Verdict: 54% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 738th / 834 Highlight : Jonathan L. Seagull Made me think of: James Blake Frank Ocean Moses Sumney