2023 Album Roundup: January

I think we can all agree that 2023 kicked off with a bang in the music world, and I've been eagerly listening to all the releases to bring you my top picks for the year starting with January. These albums have something for everyone, from sultry R&B to infectious dancehall beats to thought-provoking hip hop.

SZA - SOS

Let's talk about SZA's long-awaited sophomore album, SOS. I mean, it's everything we've been waiting for. She's got that unique mix of sultry vocals and deep, introspective lyrics that grab you by the heartstrings. This album takes you on a real journey through love, loss, and finding yourself. Of course, we can't ignore the fan favorites like "Kill Bill" and "Good Days." Those tracks are pure gold and have been stuck in our heads non-stop. But you know what? It's the deep cuts on this album that really make you appreciate SZA's artistry. She's not afraid to bare her soul and dig deep into her emotions, and it shines through in these hidden gems. Now, let's talk about the production. It's sultry, smooth, and sets the perfect mood for SZA's captivating vocals. The whole album oozes sensuality and emotion. And the lyrics? They're raw, honest, and deeply personal. SZA isn't holding anything back, and we love her for it. The critics are raving about SOS too. Pitchfork called it "a triumph of modern R&B," while Rolling Stone praised its "raw, honest, and deeply personal" lyrics. And you know what? We couldn't agree more. In fact, we're ready to give it the title of “Album of the Year.” Yeah, it's that good. So, if you haven't listened to SZA's SOS yet, do yourself a favor and press play. You won't regret it. It's a masterpiece that will make you feel all the feels and leave you wanting more. SZA, you've knocked it out of the park with this one.

Popcaan - Great Is He

Popcaan is a force to be reckoned with in the Dancehall scene. This man doesn't need to prove a thing to anyone at this point. He's got a track record that speaks volumes and on his third album, which dropped under Drake's OVO Sound label, it's clear that he knows exactly where he stands. Now, let's talk about the music itself. Across the 17 tracks on Great Is He, Popcaan dives into some familiar themes. You'll find heartfelt lyrics about overcoming hardship, discussions of self-perseverance, and, of course, love. But here's the thing: the production on this album seems a bit subdued. It's lacking that spark of inspiration that we've come to expect from Popcaan's earlier work. Don't get me wrong, though. It's not all bad. His innate talent for creating catchy melodies is still there, and that alone keeps you engaged throughout the album. While Great Is He might not be Popcaan's absolute best project to date, it's still a solid listen, especially if you're a fan of the genre. With standout singles and some satisfying deep cuts, it's clear that he's delivering what his fans want. So, even though the production feels a bit repetitive at times, you can count on Popcaan to give you some guaranteed hits.

Kota the Friend - Lyrics to Go, Vol. 4

Let's talk about Kota the Friend's Lyrics to Go, Vol. 4 because it's something special. This album is a true showcase of Kota's incredible talent when it comes to lyrics and storytelling. He dives deep into topics like personal growth, self-reflection, and the complexities of life, and man, does he do it well. What really stands out about this album is how Kota's lyrical skills shine through. I mean, his words paint such vivid pictures and evoke such raw emotions. You can feel the sincerity and authenticity in every line, and it's like he's inviting you into his world. The stripped-down production really puts the spotlight on his wordplay, and it's just mesmerizing. The beats on this album are minimalist, but they serve their purpose perfectly. They provide a solid foundation for Kota's intricate verses to shine. It's all about letting the lyrics take center stage, and boy, do they deserve it. You can't help but be captivated by the power of his words. Lyrics to Go, Vol. 4 is a testament to Kota the Friend's growth as an artist. He's honed his skills and refined his storytelling, and it really shows. In a world where superficiality often takes the spotlight, Kota brings substance and depth to the table. This album demands your attention and deserves all the recognition it can get. If you haven't listened to this album yet, do yourself a favor and give it a spin. You won't be disappointed..

Lil Yachty - Let's Start Here

Lil Yachty's Let's Start Here is a major departure from his previous work, and it shows how much he's grown as an artist. The album dives deep into introspective themes like self-reflection, personal growth, and the ups and downs of fame. The production on this album, however, is seriously impressive. The way they blend melodic beats with atmospheric textures creates this immersive experience when you listen. And Lil Yachty's vocals? Smooth as butter, effortlessly gliding over the instrumentals and adding that extra layer of depth. It's clear that a lot of thought and care went into crafting the overall sound. What I love about "Let's Start Here" is that Lil Yachty takes risks and stays true to his unique style at the same time. He's not afraid to explore new territory, and it pays off. This album really showcases his growth as an artist and cements his place in the rap scene.

Byron Messia - No Love

No Love by Byron Messia is a solid debut album that showcases his talent for crafting catchy and soulful Dancehall tracks. While it doesn't necessarily break new ground in terms of pushing boundaries, it's a well-executed effort that sets a strong foundation for Messia's future in the industry. "Talibans” however, is the track that really caught the attention of fans; it's got this infectious beat that hooks you from the start, and Messia's smooth vocals add that extra layer of charm. It's no surprise that it even got a remix from none other than Burna Boy himself. That's some serious recognition right there. Throughout the album, Messia's songwriting skills shine bright. He delves into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, and while the lyrics may not be groundbreaking, they're well-crafted and relatable. They give the songs that extra depth and meaning, making them more than just catchy tunes. When you take it all in, No Love is a promising debut from Byron Messia. It may not be the absolute pinnacle of greatness, but it's a strong effort that showcases his potential as an artist. With more time, experience, and maybe even some experimentation, Messia could easily become a prominent figure in the music scene. I'm excited to see where his journey takes him next.

These are just a few of the January releases that have captured our attention and earned a spot on our regular playlist. I'm excited to hear what other albums were the soundtrack for your year. Share your favorites in the comments below, and continue the conversation.