Whether you want to feel as light as a butterfly or get pumped to hit the gym like never before, music is one of the best ways to get in the zone. You can describe literally everything in this world and more through songs — from serenading that special someone in your life to using food as a metaphor for the socio-political environment of the country (Hello, Mr. McLean). If you want to know what our earphones are buzzing with while we go about this trip called life, check out some of the albums we’re listening to right now.
‘Damn.’ – Kendrick Lamar
Touted to be the greatest rapper of this generation — and ever, to some — Kendrick released the much-awaited ‘Damn.’ early this year. The album overflows with Kendrick’s sick skills, breaking out with dabs of 90s rap but with feet firmly in 2017. Songs like ‘Humble.’ and ‘DNA.’ are sure to pump you up when you’re trying to hit that last lap while running, or finishing your ultimate set on the bench. As a testament to Lamar’s musical ambitions, ‘Damn.’ has been praised for not being as pretentious in its experimentation compared to ‘To Pimp A Butterfly’, without losing any of that brilliant technique.
‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ – The Beatles
Celebrated and hated in equal parts, this Beatles classic hits its 50th anniversary this year. The LP is considered a milestone in modern sound technology and innovative cover art. Designed by Jann Haworth, the cover was integral in paving the way for more commercial artwork on album covers. ‘SPLHCB’ gets tons of hate for its alleged drug references and is credited for being one of the major influences of the ‘67 Summer Of Love. Gems such as ‘Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds’, ‘With A little Help From My Friends’, and ‘A Day In The Life’ are great companions while sauntering through daily activities. The album is sure to leave you with a feeling of hope, childish wonder, and melancholy.
‘Cashmere’ – Swet Shop Boys
MC Riz and Heems, two rappers from across the pond, come together to form the hip-hop group Swet Shop Boys. Their first studio album ‘Cashmere’ is heavily influenced by Riz’s Pakistani and Heems’ Indian ethnicities. The lyrics are complex — underlaid with metaphors by the millions — without being too long-winded. Songs like ‘Ajaa’ and ‘Tiger Hologram’ also have undertones of love and other hormones, laced with the duo’s wicked sense of humour. If you’re looking for a great album that is equal parts woke and OG, be sure to add ‘Cashmere’ to your playlist.
‘Ocean’ – Parekh & Singh
Do you love Wes Anderson? Does your soul yearn for The Grand Budapest Hotel, Stanley-Kubrick-esque cinematography, and pastel shades? If it does, you’re sure to love what Parekh & Singh have to offer. ‘Ocean’, their first studio album, is making waves for its sensitive but bold writing, which is great when you’re spending a quiet evening. Dressed in their muted suits, these boys from Kolkata are the latest addition to a growing art trend — the tactful, compassionate man (think Newt Scamander).
‘The Chief’ – Jidenna
If you’re looking for something more high-octane to play in the background while you go about grabbing life by the scruff, Jidenna’s ‘The Chief’ may just be your fix. The lyrics are straight from the heart and are inspired by incidents from Jidenna’s past. The tracks masterfully sample trap, retro-contemporary, and tropical pop-house elements. and are finished with a flourish of Jidenna’s lyrical brilliance. Listen to ‘Chief Don’t Run’ and ‘Long Live The Chief’ when you need to get your adrenaline going.
The next time you’re trawling through your playlist while sweating it in the gym, driving back from work, or just lounging at home, give some of these albums a listen. There might just be a whole other world waiting for you to discover.
P.S.: Keep watching this space for more exciting music every month!
Whether you want to feel as light as a butterfly or get pumped to hit the gym like never before, music is one of the best ways to get in the zone. You can describe literally everything in this world
