Juno Recommends Hip Hop / R&B: February 2025

Review: REPRESS ALERT!: New York producer P-Sol has hit on a super effective formula for starting the party, stitching together a selection of familiar samples and hooks, adding some beautifully dusty breaks and adding a final sheen of shiny production skills. Both sides of this 7" have a touch of raw 'two turntables' action about them, while remaining impeccably constructed and tight, with the A-side 'This Way' proving to be the slightly speedier and slightly more funk/r&b-flavoured, while 'Breathe & Stop (Abstract Blend)' is the one for the pure hip-hop heads. Both, however, are dynamite in the box, needless to say.

Review: To bear a name like Breakbeat Lou, you'd have to have earned it. And Louis Flores is indeed arch-digger numero uno: mainly having cut his teeth as a co-creator of the Ultimate Break And Beats compilations on New York's Streetbeat Records, Lou was born anew as a DJ as way back as 1974 (!), amassing a boss pile of vinyl and thus music intel, largely as to where and how to source the best breakbeats out there. With elite producers like DJ Premier, Large Professor, The Bomb Squad, Pete Rock, Dr Dre and Marley Marl all having sampled Lou's wholesale procurements over the years, the man himself now steps back up to flaunt his very own pump-action breaks works. From KRS-One to Loose Ends, the samples on this are electric, and the original beats bombastic.

Review: Perhaps the most striking moment on Kendrick Lamar's GNX comes early, with 'Squabble Up.' Opening on a sparse beat laced with an almost claustrophobic bassline, the track bursts into intricate lyricism, with Lamar delivering rapid-fire verses that bristle with urgency. It's an audacious statement that sets the tone for the album: introspection wrapped in cinematic production. Then there's 'Heart Pt. 6,' a deeply layered piece where ghostly synths and rolling drums frame Lamar's contemplations on legacy, loss, and identity. The interplay of Lamar's voice, alternately tender and defiant, with the productionicourtesy of Sounwave and Kamasi Washingtoniis nothing short of riveting. GNX doesn't provide easy answers; instead, it invites you to sit with its questions, its moments of chaos and its flashes of hard-won clarity.

Review: This 45 delivers a perfect mix of late 80s hip-hop with a touch of fresh insight. Side-1 features an upbeat track that captures the energy and clever lyricism of vintage hip-hop. Its catchy hook and sharp delivery make it a standout in the golden era of rap. Side-2 shifts gears with a more laid-back, jazzy vibe paired with conscious lyrics. The track's introspective message adds depth and contrast to the more energetic side. Together, these tracks make for a cool, well-rounded 45, blending classic hip-hop sounds with a meaningful message that's sure to resonate with fans of the genre.

Review: Dusty Donut's Naughty NMX returns with a double helping of irresistible grooves to make you move. On the A-side, he reimagines a timeless summer funk classic with a vibrant, Nubian-inspired twist that instantly brightens up any space. On the B-side, he teams up with label mate Runex to deliver a deeper, soulful vibe, featuring smooth production, punchy rhythms, and slick drums. The result is a track that's impossible not to move to, bringing both energy and joy and the perfect way to get the spirit of summer alive and well, even as the darker months remain here.

Review: A track per year is said to have gone into the making of Quasimoto's 2013 hip-hop 12-tracker. The long haul is documented across a quirky, frequency-surfing selection, which at times veer from the usual wonky, tongue-in-cheek, nasally prod-rap flows and into subvertised sound collage. 'Seasons Change', for example, detours into a bolshy sample tapestry about alcoholism and the substitution of natural highs for synthetic high. Even so, it's the irreverent, conversational miasmas of 'Youngblood', 'Planned Attack' and 'LAX to JFK' that really define this mixtape slash compilation from the yellow Madlib alter-ego.

Review: John Glacier, a rising star in the UK music scene, finally unveils her highly anticipated debut album, a captivating exploration of modern life through a uniquely personal lens, weaving together threads of relationships, responsibilities and the complexities of navigating a rapidly changing world, her poetic lyricism and distinctive phrasing shining throughout. Tracks like 'Satellites' and 'Don't Cover Me' offer an intimate glimpse into Glacier's journey, while 'Money Shows (feat. Eartheater)' and 'Emotions' explore the complexities of human connection and self-discovery. The album's sonic landscape is as diverse as its themes, with introspective moments like 'Nevasure' and 'Steady As I Am' interwoven with bursts of raw energy in tracks like 'Grands!' and 'Cows Come Home'. 'Ocean Stepping (feat. Sampha)' and 'Dancing In The Rain' showcase Glacier's collaborative spirit, while 'Heaven's Sent' provides a poignant and reflective conclusion to an enthralling debut.

Review: A fascinating piece of hip-hop history, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind one of the genre's most celebrated albums. These demos, originally leaked in 2002, capture the raw energy and unfiltered brilliance of Madvillain's early sessions. MF DOOM's vocals, recorded and mixed at Madlib's Bomb Shelter studio, showcase his signature wordplay and off-kilter flow, while Madlib's beats provide a captivating backdrop of dusty samples and head-nodding grooves. Tracks like 'Do Not Fire!', 'Bistro', and 'America's Most Blunted' offer a fascinating glimpse into the album's evolution, with alternate versions and early arrangements showcasing the duo's creative process. While these demos may be unfinished, they still possess an undeniable magic, capturing the raw energy and unbridled creativity that would eventually make Madvillainy a hip-hop masterpiece.

Review: DJ Deviant and Swamburger join forces for a double-sided serving of feel-good hip-hop and r&b on this 7" release. 'Get On The Floor' is a surefire party starter, its infectious beat and catchy hooks practically demanding movement and setting the tone for a night of good times. The track is a vibrant blend of classic hip-hop elements and contemporary production, with DJ Deviant's cuts and scratches adding a layer of turntablist flair. On the flip, 'Where's The Party' sees DJ Deviant flying solo, keeping the energy high with a smooth groove and feelgood vibes that are reminiscent of 90s r&b classics. The ever enduring appeal of hip-hop and r&b in full effect.

Review: Innersoul's The Theory, originally released in 1996, has long been revered in the underground hip-hop community, and now it's getting a well-deserved reissue on limited edition vinyl with a Japanese obi-strip. The standout track, 'It's The Right Time', which was also released as a 12" single, captures the essence of the era, with its jazz and soul samples evoking the unmistakable East Coast underground vibe of the 90s. The album is full of lighthearted rap exchanges and soulful beats that are quintessential of the time. This reissue also includes bonus tracks, making it an essential pickup for both longtime fans and newcomers to this classic slice of hip-hop history.

Review: Dusty Donut's Naughty NMX has been busy laying down some killer joints but also working on releasing them in several different formats including this one which arrives on a limited edition blue vinyl 7". First up he brings a classic summer funk anthem up to date with a vibrant twist that hits hard with instant warmth. The B-side sees him join forces with label mate Runex for a deeper, more soulful track that features smooth production, punchy rhythms and slick drums that are perfect for any summery setting when the good vibes are flowing.

Review: The Weeknd's latest project continues to push boundaries, but it's the quieter moments that really leave a mark. Take 'Dancing in the Flames'iit starts with muted synths, almost tentative, like something trying to find its footing, before blossoming into a dense, emotionally charged soundscape. Tesfaye's falsetto feels particularly vulnerable here, a perfect match for lyrics that seem to teeter between hope and resignation. On 'Timeless (feat Playboi Carti),' the mood shifts entirely. Carti's jagged verses cut through the lush production, creating a tension that makes the track feel alive and unpredictable. And then there's 'Sao Paulo (feat Anitta),' which bursts out with a vibrancy that feels like a releaseia rare moment of pure celebration. Overall, the album's impact lies in its restraint, in the contrasts and the spaces between moods where it truly resonates.

Review: Wonderfully lackadaisical is the latest LP by Apollo Brown and Crimeapple, whose conscious hip-hop stylings and threadbare productions peg a distinct era in sound, all while rendering said sound entirely their own. The New Jersey natives distil poetry and philosophy between lines, summoning utter bars of poetic justice; Brown's dusty productions mar Crimeapple's verses in cloggy, soft-clipped haziness, as in-out gospel samples and jazzy ride cymbals draw on a chromic influential palette. "Lawdahmercy" goes the refrain on 'Mercy', as 'Apple antiphonates: "you'd better pray, 'cos I don't...". Elsewhere, 'The Problem' and 'Wonderful Feelin' (with Willie The Kid) flaunt the best of NJ's softest-footed hip-hop productions, where hard beats are further foregone in favour of experimental soundscapes.

Review: American neo-soul pin-up D'Angelo has released a couple of the smoothest records of the last 30 years. He even made a welcome comeback in the mid 2010s and added some more magic to his cannon. Here Kero Uno remixes a couple of his tunes and ups their funky quotient to make them more suitable to dancefloors. First, he flips 'Spanish Joint' into a key-laced and funky workout with low-slung, hip-swinging grooves sure to seduce next to the zippy synth leads. On the flip is his hot take on 'Feel Like Makin' Love', another bona-fide gem full of heart and soul.

Review: Steve Spacek's early-2000s group Spacek was a hidden gem of the neo-soul movement that was known for futuristic production and soulful vocals. Among their rarities was a sought-after remix by J Dilla which became a prized collector's item. Now, after its initial release a few years ago, it is back with another fresh reissue that reminds of the original's tight production and deep groove. On the flip is an instrumental version that dials things back to the dusty, low-slung beats. A real dozy, this.

Review: Victoria Port, one half of the acclaimed electronic soul duo Anushka, steps into the spotlight with her debut solo EP, an accomplished exploration of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyricism delivered via powerful vocals and introspective songwriting. The EP features a diverse range of sounds, from the soulful grooves of 'Cigarette' and 'Haunting' to the more intimate balladry of 'Keep Love For Me' and the title track, 'Did It Again'. Port's lyrics delve into themes of vulnerability, resilience and the transformative power of motherhood, drawing inspiration from the legacy of her Dominican grandmother and the powerful women in her life. A very promising debut.

Review: The king of west coast hip-hop is back better than ever, with a massive sounding album blending cinematic production with nostalgic nods to funk, slow jams and new jack swing, creating a rich tapestry of different styles. At its core is a narrative of resilience and responsibility, exploring themes of artistry, sacrifice, and the pressures of being a role model. Opening with sharp reflections on personal and public controversies, the record sets a tone of wisdom tempered by humor. Tracks like 'Heart Pt. 6' showcase vulnerability and growth, while others revel in pure bravado, bolstered by thunderous beats and infectious hooks. Collaborations with seasoned producers and emerging talent add depth, creating a sense of community and mentorship that underscores the artist's commitment to nurturing the next generation. Lyrically, the album examines fame, familial bonds and self-acceptance with a sense of duty and truth. It's a powerful statement of intention, offering both anthems for celebration and moments of introspection.

Review: The Weeknd's upcoming release marks the final chapter in the trilogy that began with After Hours and Dawn FM, bringing his signature fusion of nocturnal R&B and cinematic synthwave to new emotional depths. Highlights include 'Timeless', a brooding collaboration with Playboi Carti, and 'Sao Paulo', a sultry track featuring Anitta, blending Latin rhythms with atmospheric production. Thematically, the album explores redemption and self-reflection, with Abel Tesfaye's haunting falsetto weaving through stories of loss and longing. Fans can experience this new chapter live at a one-night-only show at Pasadena's Rose Bowl, a fittingly grand stage for what promises to be an unforgettable closing act.

Review: Kero Uno has been kicking for almost two decades, credited with reviving jazz sensibilities in hip-hop almost three decades since it, unfortunately, fell out of fashion around the turn of the century. K1 introduces city-pop and jazz-hop to two of Kdots biggest tracks, 'Bitch Don't Kill My Vibe' and 'Love', the former of which was put on SoundCloud almost a decade ago now and created nothing but buzz. K1 skyrocketed to fame, having his album crowdfunded by excited fans and catching the attention of Kendrick's own mix engineer Derek Ali. The 'Don't Kill My Vibes' mix flips the 2012 hit into a vibraphone-led synthy jazz slice of heaven, while the 'Love' flip, 'Vinyl Love', is a chill, wavey city-pop banger, with subtle brass and airtight percussion coming together in perfect matrimony.

Review: A total departure from her last album Magdalene, Grammy-nominated British multidisciplinary artist FKA Twigs is firing on all cylinders on Eusexua. The slogan "Eusexua is a practice. Eusexua is a state of being. Eusexua is the pinnacle of human existence" can be found everywhere online and in London right now, even sprayed onto the pavement in places - what Eusexua actually is though is anyone's guess, which is half the fun I suppose. While 2019's Magdalene was a heartwrenching collection of string-led ballads covering extremely morbid topics, with the sensational and fun 'Caprisongs' in 2022 bridging the five year gap, Eusexua is going all in on techno sensibilities, helmed by Koreless, Two Shell and a host of other high-class beatmakers. The title track, released in tandem with a teaser for 'Drums of Death', is an Opus III style trance/techno slow-burn that erupts into a thumping bassline towards the hindlegs of the song. Twigs seems to be styling herself predominantly after Kirsty Hawkshaw during the 'Mind Fruit' era, both in the bold choices of hair and going so far as to cover 'It's A Fine Day' at a Vogue Word event. Garnering a cultlike status, Eusexua is a blend of eclectic influences with the finest talent at hand working on it, tied together with Twigs' personal experiences living in Prague and falling in love with an underground techno scene without borders. The only question remaining, really, is what does Eusexua mean to you?

Review: Michi Guerrero aka Michi sets upon unleashing her debut album Dirty Talk unto the world. The LA-based singer-songwriter begun in pop before finding her truer feet in making warm neo-soul, in which discipline she has remained. Backing up a recent throng of exquisite Knxwledge flips of her earliest singles, the new record documents productions of a near-equal calibre from Blake Rhein (Durand Jones & The Indications) and Paul Cherry. Retroistic, channelling a Motown-reminiscent sound, the lyrics deal in interpersonal dilemmas unique to the modern day; hear the a-romantic de-subjectvations of 'If You Want Me' and the existentialisms of 'There's No Heaven', the latter being a prize house music cut, not to be missed by DJs.

Review: This two-disc compilation serves as both a tribute and a comprehensive dive into the legacy of one of hip-hop's most influential groups. A Tribe Called Quest were instrumental at the start of the 90s for helping the hip-hop genre move into more conscious lyrics that thanks to the members, took storytelling to a new level. Creating some of the most catchy tracks in hip-hop history, the group continue to grow in respect as one of the best acts in the genre of all time. With a mix of career-defining hits, rare B-sides and fresh remixes, this package is a rich exploration of their artistry. Tracks like 'Can I Kick It?', 'Electric Relaxation' and 'Scenario' stand as monuments to their enduring impact, racking up millions of streams and inspiring new generations of listeners. Previously unreleased gems 'Mr. Incognito' and 'The Night He Got Caught' feel right at home alongside anthems like 'Award Tour' and 'Bonita Applebum', highlighting the group's versatility and storytelling prowess. The inclusion of remixes, such as 'Lyrics To Go (Tumblin Dice Remix)' and 'Oh My God (Remix)', adds layers of freshness to timeless classics. The attention to detail in this collection is remarkable. Tracks like 'Jazz (We've Got)' and 'Check The Rhyme' sound revitalised, with crisp production showing their intricate melodies and sharp lyricism. From the playful narrative of 'I Left My Wallet in El Segundo' to the bold swagger of 'Buggin' Out,' every track contributes to the story of a group widely considered to be one rap's all time greats.

Review: The hip-hop legends' fourth album, released in 1996, marked a pivotal shift in their musical journey. The production, led by The Ummahia collective including Q-Tip and the late J Dillaiintroduced a more minimalist and darker tone compared to their earlier, jazz-infused works. Tracks like '1nce Again' and 'Stressed Out' exemplify this evolution, blending introspective lyrics with innovative beats. The reissue offers a renewed appreciation for the group's willingness to experiment and evolve, highlighting a significant chapter in their discography.