harry styles - 'harry styles'
I have never really been a huge One Direction fan if I am completely honest, but I have to give Harry a pat on the back when it comes his solo album, Harry Styles. Becoming a solo artist was probably one of the best moves that Harry Styles could possibly have done, as it has really given him the chance to put his own raw style of singing onto his own songs. The album consists of 10 tracks which are seemingly inspired by Harry’s idols, each with classic twists. If you like classics such as the Beatles, then you’re surely going to fall in love with Harry’s new solo album.
STORMZY - 'gANG SIGNS AND PRAYER'
The past couple of years are known as Stormzy’s rise to fame, basically. From being on stage for Kanye West’s performance of ‘All Day’ alongside Skepta, JME, Krept&Konan etc, to performing for Anthony Joshua’s ring walk last year. His debut album did not disappoint, starting immediately with furious beats in “First Things First” which he intended to be a ‘punch in the face’ to rival, lesser known rappers coming for his thrown. But in “Blinded by Your Grace pt 1” he goes fully gospel, using autotune to allow his voice to flow like silk in prayer. In Velvet, Stormzy allows shows his gentle side declaring his love for his “princess.” It is remarkably well balanced and progressive for a debut album for the 23 year old MC.
kendrick lamar - 'damn.'
Kendrick Lamar has proven once again that he is the master storyteller, with all albums prior to DAMN. being a narrative of his life in Compton, growing up as he did, it seems Lamar has been saving his biggest plot twist specifically for this. Full of merciless lyrics and thunderous beats, DAMN. proves to be one of his best pieces of art yet.
HUMBLE is undeniably a visual masterpiece, Lamar demands furiously that African American women should be accurately represented in the media “Show me something natural / Like afro on Richard Pryor / Show me something natural / Like ass with some stretchmarks” once again Lamar shows solidarity and alliance with the struggles women face, like in TPAB’s ‘Complexion.’ In FEAR, he reflects on the fear from his mother, “That homework better be finished, I beat yo’ ass” but his flow and recitation is honestly so flawless, you’re left wondering if he even took a breath. His distinct, piercing stretches up and down in pitch in PRIDE but even when he tries to imitate other rappers, he is still undeniably recognisable. Lamar remains a voice for the people and staying, ironically, humble to his beginnings.
MUSIC