A Punk A$AP Rocky or a Dancing Jordan Ward? Check Out These 5 Must-Hear Albums from Last Month

A$AP Rocky – Don’t Be Dumb

A$AP Rocky is back with a new album after almost eight years. It's a personal record about fame, pressure, and family. He mixes rap with melancholy and introspection, even dabbling in neo-soul and punk rock. This conceptual double album is a strong statement. Rocky confirms his status as one of the most influential rappers of the moment. And by the way, he brought along friends like Tyler, The Creator and Doechi. The album cover of Don't Be Dumb was created by Tim Burton!

SAULT – Chapter 1

SAULT is an enigmatic British collective that still keeps its identity a mystery. But we know the frontwoman is the amazing singer Cleo Sol. Their new release, Chapter 1, is a calm and deeply emotive record blending soul, R&B, and gospel. Just strike a match from the album cover, light a candle, and listen. SAULT won't disappoint.

Don Toliver – OCTANE

Don Toliver is part of the Cactus Jack label, and we saw him live in Prague last year. His new album OCTANE is inspired by speed and cruising around LA. And that's exactly how you should listen to it—loud and on the move, like in a car. Full of confidence, fresh rap sounds, and hypnotic hooks. Sometimes Toliver goes wild—like in his collab with the eccentric Teezo Touchdown. Expect strong features from personalities you might expect more, like Travis Scott and Yeat.

Lexa Gates – I Am

Looking for fresh female vocals in music? Here you go. Lexa Gates has the advantage of being a great singer and rapper simultaneously. With her new album I Am, the Queens artist nailed it. Straightforward lyrics, confident flow, vibe. Instead of a classic listening party, she locked herself in a giant wheel in a New York gallery, marching while her new release played in the background. And even if the lyrics sometimes repeat clichés, Lexa is definitely not monotonous. Her work has a super pleasant atmosphere.

Jordan Ward - BACKWARD

If Jordan Ward's name doesn't ring a bell, check out his Tiny Desk performance first. He brings his extremely likable energy to his new album BACKWARD, a follow-up to FORWARD. Positive R&B tracks with a slightly melancholic twist are held together by his great vocals and a tight jazz-influenced band. Jordan also played at Tyler, The Creator's festival, but here you'll find features from rapper Smino, for example. So far, the most charming album of the year!