MUSIC TO DOWNLOAD THIS WEEK
TRACKS Tyler, The Creator — OKRA
One of the edgiest and most interesting guys in rap (even though he dresses like a golfing dad) follows his spectacular 2017 album Flower Boy with what he refers to as a “throwaway” song. OKRA is Tyler doing what he does best: a sinister vibe, an infectious, bass-heavy beat and trademark “I’m not even trying right now” flow. This could have fit in easily on Flower Boy.
Locnville x AirDee — Better With Silence
Another catchy and laid-back jam from the Cape Town twin brothers. It’s rather interesting how the duo has barely changed their sound in nearly a decade, yet they don’t sound stale or tired. This track features rapper YoungstaCPT.
Tinashe feat Ty Dolla $ign & French Montana — Me So Bad
In the four years since her somewhat promising debut album, Tinashe has struggled to find her feet both musically and commercially. She can’t decide what her identity or sound is, which is probably because she’s trying to get a major hit. Unfortunately, this track isn’t it. Co-signs from Ty Dolla and Montana won’t do much to cement her star power because this song isn’t one you’ll remember.
ALBUMS Kacey Musgraves — Golden Hour
Remember when Taylor Swift was country? Well, if you miss those days, Musgraves (above) is the artist for you. It’s unfair, of course, to compare Kacey to T-Swizzle/ Tay-Tay, especially because she’s so much better (yeah I said it). Her new album of 13 gorgeous tracks is definitely loop-worthy.
Hayley Kiyoko — Expectations
Apparently Kiyoko is a former Disney star (some of us are too old to know this), but that shouldn’t put you off. Her debut album is a catchy, dreamy pop record. She doesn’t have a particularly outstanding voice, but the tunes would be perfect background bops for a lazy Saturday pool party.
Jack White — Boarding House Reach
White hasn’t dazzled or surprised us in a long time. His new album feels so much longer than its 45-minute running time. It’s selfindulgent (okay, fine, this is Jack White), it’s colourless and it’s uninteresting. Part of it sounds like a bad Led Zeppelin tribute album. White may be one of the great guitarists of our time, but even the guitar licks sound boring.