Roc Marciano
76
Moody, monotone gangster rap that uses a sample of 10cc's "I'm Not in Love" to glorious effect. Marciano understands that New York rap is always best when done simply.
Will.i.am
Reach for the Stars (Mars edition)
The first song in the history of mankind to be broadcast from another planet. For such a momentous event, Will.i.am's overly-autotuned hip-hop may feel a little lightweight. Still, it's suitably otherworldly.
How To Dress Well
Cold Nights (Koreless Remix)
Red Bull Music Academy inductee Koreless turns "Cold Nights" into a warm, haunting track by building it around a soft xylophone hook.
Method Man/Freddie Gibbs/StreetLife
Built For This
The rap heavyweights team up for this track from RZA's directorial debut "The Man With the Iron Fists". Kanye West and Wu Tang also appear on the film's OST.
Becoming Real ft. Alice Sunless 97
Slow Memory
Alice's aloof voice works perfectly on BR's lush, east-Asian influenced new single.
The Music Tapes
Playing 'Evening'
This ambitious new project from former Neutral Milk Hotel bassist and banjo player Julian Koster sits somewhere between late-period Beatles and Daniel Johnston.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies