REVIEW: BABYMETAL - METAL FORTH

4/5

New Metal 

About a year ago, I was meant to see BABYMETAL live at the Tokyo Garden Theatre in support of American rock act Incubus. But I missed their set (deep bow). I'll level with you, I was on a date. And when lunch turns into more conversation, it's not exactly like you can be like, "well, this is great and all, but I really got to catch my train before I miss seeing three other Japanese girls. They're kawaii, you know." Well, needless to say, a calendar and change later, I regret not doing just that. And not just because here I sit typing away in a shoebox of an apartment, built for one minus one, as single as the last dollar bill in your wallet, firmly in the social media friend zone with said could have been. But also because of hearing 'from me to you'. The opening track of the Tokyo band's fifth album, 'Metal Forth', featuring Poppy. "I've had enough from your mouth/You can shove it/'Cause you know you don't stand a chance." These are the lyrics, not what I would say to my now friend. The one who never stood a chance, was me.

I missed the train (in more ways than one) when Su-metal, Moametal and Yuimetal (now replaced by Momometal) arrived on the scene a decade and a half ago, supporting the legendary likes of the Red Hot Chili Peppers on tour across the world and back home in the UK before their self-tilted debut in 2014). If I knew more of the metal 'Resistance' and 'Galaxy' than I would have certainly showed up on time for their show (I'll let it go now, I promise). Especially as I'm getting more into Japanese music after my Scandal-ous start, with everyone from the amazing Aimyon to the legendary Sakanaction. Now the heavy metal outfit's, with even better costumes in concert, first album since 'The Other One' (that's the name, I'm not being a lazy writer) in 2023, features a who's who of the rocking industry. Poppy, Electric Callboy ('RATATATA'), Slaughter To Prevail ('Song 3', take that, Blur!), Bloodywood ('Kon! Kon!'), Polyphia (the beautiful 'Sunset Kiss'), Spiritbox ('My Queen') and the Nightwatchmen Tom Morello of the great Rage Against The Machine on 'メタり！！(METALI!!)'. Not that these superstars themselves need any help.

Shining like the diamond encrusted cover of this legacy logo album artwork, looking like the now Instagram famous glass escalator entrance to the Tokyu Plaza mall in Harajuku (which has the best Starbucks with a view, a train away from the world's biggest, may I add?!) The red lantern of 'METAL!' introduces Morello perfectly ("踊る阿保に見える阿保/同じ阿保なら踊れでしかし/ここで踊らにゃいつ踊る/メタり！メタり！") before he rages and rips on the guitar like he did with The Boss, when Springsteen had 'High Hopes' after their 'Magic Tour Highlights' reawakening of 'The Ghost Of Tom Joad'. There are so many 'KxAxWxAxIxI' anthems from the Japanese kawaii metal band, that could go spiky toe-to-toe with all the maidens and their iron, burning bright until the 'White Flame -白炎-' reduces everything else to ash. This somewhat long delayed album, produced by Kobametal on their new Capitol Records home, is well worth the wait. Rocking for just over a half-hour, like The Black Keys return with 'No Rain, No Flowers', also out this New Music Friday.

All the collabos are singles, save the best of the set, 'Sunset Kiss' (not yet, anyway). But the real collaboration is with new member Momoko Okazaki for this "beyond metal" album that pops in all sort of genre places. The US, Canada, Germany, India and Russia all come into play, as does the UK as Bring Me The Horizon's Jordan Fish produces alongside Kobametal, following Babymetal's appearance on the band's song 'Kingslayer'. Suzuka Nakamoto, Moa Kikuchi and Okazaki don't normally feature many guest appearances, but this is no departure for the band. However, as soon as you hear their signature sound and the social media algorithm ready rhythms of 'Algorism', you'll realize nobody is quite like them. Singing, "Don't break it now, don’t turn away/Don't break it now, don't leave me now/Don’t break it now, don't turn away/Don't break it now, no pain, no gain, no pain, no gain", in a brutal and beautiful breakdown. Going forth with what's actually their fourth album (they don't count the 'Other' concept one as mainline), Baby still has the mettle. I might have not been (here I go again), but this big-three stays ready to rock. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'KxAxWxAxIxI', 'メタり！！(METALI!!) (Feat. Tom Morello)', 'White Flame -白炎-'

Spin This: BABYMETAL - 'The Other One'

REVIEW: THE BLACK KEYS - NO RAIN, NO FLOWERS

4/5

Songs In The Keys Of Life

Sinatra has a sound that is so signature you could just let his whole playlist play for hours, days maybe, and it would blend so seamlessly and beautifully together. Getting richer, like wine, as it ages. That's just the great American songbook for you. Like rock and roll. And now that one of our generation greats, The Black Keys, have hit more than a dozen albums, you can say the same for these Ohio bandsmen and kids from Akron. They've never left it that long between albums, since their 'Big Come Up' in 2002 (one year before their fellow Akron native, LeBron James, own dynamic debut). Maybe a calendar, or a couple. Only really since their big-three of 'Brothers' (2010), 'El Camino' (2011) and 2014's 'Turn Blue'. But four years after that, it's been an onslaught, like an 'Everlasting Love'. 'Let's Rock' (2019), 'Delta Kream' (2021), 'Dropout Boogie' (2022), all getting us through COVID, before last year's bowler-rama of the 'Ohio Players'.

Now just a calendar and change after that Big Lebowski with the likes of Beck, Black Keys are back. 'No Rain, No Flowers' waters their thirteenth album that is luck for us this New Music Friday. Yet, you would have forgiven the iconic duo of Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney if they perhaps wanted to take a brief break. Like the greatest rollers of this rock generation could. "We got f####d. I'll let you all know how so it doesn't happen to you," Carney claimed in a now deleted tweet after the Keys fired their management last year. Now, this Warner Record recorded in Nashville's Easy Eye Sound studio marks changes in more ways than one. Marking their first collaboration with hit song maker Rick Nowels (he's not far off a century of classics on the Billboard 100), multi-instrumentalist Daniel Tashian and super-producer Scott Storch, who was so hip-hop in the early 2000s he once cut the roof off of a Rolls-Royce to make it a drop-top. All for the beautiful bloom of these flowers, we need, like the deserts need the rain.

Rain and flowers will give you a North American fall tour from these brothers in arms, straight out of their dire straits. Feeling refreshed for a half-hour record of all-power, there are plenty of singles to get the crowd ready before the classic comes into play. The opening title-track. The second track and first single, 'The Night Before'. The beautiful 'Babygirl'. The moving 'Man On A Mission', for a pair on a rejuvenated one. And the outstanding 'On Repeat', that will be exactly that, like the Spotify shuffling of this band's definitive discography as a perfect playlist, with no need for edit, it's so epic. But like their last few records, the Keys finish strong like the late, great Mister Cee (Scott will know what we're talking about). The King James, D-Wade and Chris Bosh like big-three of the introspective 'All My Life', the atmospheric 'A Little Too High' and the gleam of a new 'Neon Moon' ("When you’re at the crossroads/And you don’t know where to turn/And everything is backwards/From all the bridges that you burned/Don’t let yourself get down too long/‘Cause a change is coming soon/You can always find your way back home/By the light of the neon moon") really takes you home.

Black and white like a Black Rebel Motorcycle Club album artwork confirms this as a classic for a band that reach back to their raw roots. The leather clad and bare chested figure on the front almost looks like Brian Fallon from fellow legendary luminaries, The Gaslight Anthem, as a teardrop tattoo hangs from his eye like the loose cigarette from his lips. Whereas a red rose, the only colour on the cover, wrapped with the notion of 'No Rain, No Flowers' hits his sternum like a thorn. There's no more in Auerbach or Carney's side, however, as The Keys play once again like Sam for the record. On 'Down To Nothing', Auerbach still searches for hope in this love and life, singing, "Behind the clouds/Beyond the stars/Above the crowds/In some lonely bar/I’ll meet you there." All until his muse will 'Kiss It' better. It's the kind of haunted heart that will 'Make You Mine' like, "I’ve been alone/So f#####g long/I’ve cried the tears of a clown/I need a break from my mistakes/But that’s the price of starting over/How many times is one time too many?" A yearly yearn that burns. Just like Black's everlasting light. The reign is still here. So give them their flowers. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Babygirl', 'All My Life', 'Neon Moon'.

Spin This: The Black Keys - 'Ohio Players'.

LIVE REVIEW: FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL '25 @ Naeba Ski Resort, Japan (27/07/25)

4/5

Haimally

I quit, no longer being able to see Haim live. I was meant to do it years ago. A gift, from my best friend, back in London. But this was during corona. The same COVID-19 that Haim's California classic, 'Women In Music, Pt. III' helped get me through. The every same 'WIMPIII' best friend got me signed. Now, all these years later, I Haim-ally get to see my favourite band. And if that wasn't enough, thanks to someone else, I'll attend a talk about their new album, 'I Quit', in Shibuya's still-standing Tower Records tomorrow. I might have missed tickets for the meet and greet potion of the evening, but I don't need their autographs anyway, do I, D? Haim weren't the headliner, Vampire Weekend were, of Japan's Fuji Rock Festival '25. But they made the White Stage their own, and actually finished following their American contemporary. Drawing one of the biggest, roaring crowds. Rocking like the 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' like eyes of these stones showcase around the ski resort.

I hated to quit on Vampire Weekend part-way through their sweet, signature sound set, yet I wasn't missing Haim this time. I'll get my teeth into the Weekend, again, much like I am the closing track off Vampire's latest album, 'Only God Was Above Us', a classic like 'Capricorn', or 'Contra'. Seeing Haim with new friends, and ones from work I bumped into was an absolute joy as Danielle, Este and Alana Haim came onto stage after the red letters of their latest album told us everything they have quit. Isolation. Nicotine. D###. Then they took us down to the wire and opened their act with some of their 'Days Have Gone' own, like the raucously approved 'My Song 5'. 'I Want You Back', like the Jackson 5, also made an appearance, but with so many classics, let alone singles off the new album, something had to give. And it was that one. All whilst 'Relationships' and 'Down To Be Wrong' were met with last album icons like 'Now I'm In It', 'The Steps', 'Don't Wanna', 'Gasoline' and 'Summer Girl' with some sexy sax. From the girl's trademark drum set, to Danielle stepping behind the skins, this was a flawless set. Now, I can't wait to see how they top this at Tower.

That wasn't it, mind you, at a festival that is like Glastonbury with beautiful scenery, and even better food. Switching between stages like those 'Relationships' Haim sang about, you were spoilt for choice in a legendary line-up of Japanese and international artists. From London's own Little Simz, to the heart of Hana Hope. I'm just glad I got to see English Teacher on stage, not just for the incredible talent, but the fact that the spotlight didn't shine on this non-singing sensei. A real treat of the evening was Swedish 'Hate To Say I Told You So' legends The Hives at the Red Marquee. It's been 19 years since they last played Japan, and almost that long since I saw them a London's Hard Rock Calling. Yet with another album out in August, they haven't lost a step. Fabulous frontman Pelle Almqvist may just be the best in the business. Classic comedic cockiness on stage with tighter set arrangements than their classic suits. When he swings the mic around and pulls it back down, like a boxing announcer, he's the champ. And his band, the law, alright? Good! Fabulous forests to walk through that are ski slopes in the fall, you'll see plenty of artwork hanging from the trees of Fuji Rock's Naeba Ski resort like the snow that will come. But the best thing about this festival is the people you share it with. Especially when they surprise you at the gate in crazy coincidence. I keep pronouncing it wrong, but Fuji well and truly rocks. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Set-list Picks: Haim, The Hives, Vampire Weekend.

REVIEW: TYLER, THE CREATOR - DON'T TAP THE GLASS

4/5

In Case Of Emergency, Break Glass

Tapping in, Tyler, The Creator, currently on a world tour for last year's classic, 'Chromakopia', will touch down in Tokyo in a matter of months. Donning that iconic black phantom mask, that is about as signature as the dark Celtic green artwork that plasters posters all around the world of towns he tours. Even so, that hasn't stopped him from dropping a surprise brand-new album, to start the week of all schedules. New Music Monday, anybody? It's got a nice ring to it like 'Ring Ring Ring', off of The Creator's latest invention, 'Don't Tap The Glass'. Breaking industry trends and shattering Spotify streams. The most anticipated album of the week...is already here. And those in Japan and the rest of the watching world may just have a two-album tour. Tyler, on the other hand, just wants you to dance, without the screening fear of being filmed.

On iconic scrunched paper white album artwork, a shirtless Creator looks like the legendary LL Cool J in gold rope and red Kangol. Not to mention, those iconic bifocals. And he's worthy of that def stature for his jams. Tyler's latest creation is up there with the classic that came before it. As a matter of fact, all the classics that came before this ninth wonder, like the producer. 'Bastard', 'Goblin', 'Wolf', 'Cherry Bomb', 'Flower Boy', 'Igor', 'Call Me If You Get Lost', and all that album artwork. And coming so closely to 'Chroma's' time, this is more than an epic 'Estate Sale' for the Grammy winner. It's a completely fresh, fire classic in its own right. Furthering the rhyme, or should we say why to the reason he was left out of last year's best rapper of the big-three debate. Until J. Cole bashfully bowed out after throwing shade at 'The Simpsons' and Kendrick Lamar turned Drake into a minoooooor thing. No matter, Tyler knows that real hip-hop and the art of it is more than war and about the words that make the music that lasts longer. And hey, any excuse for our social media reels to get refreshed with that legendary freestyle and Funkmaster Flex's reaction to why he used that line. Not to mention, Tyler's nonplussed one.

You won't question why he uses these lyrics, though, as the latest creation makes for a great fortnight in hip-hop. Beginning with the real and raw reunion of Clipse (another of Drake's fondest friends) and hitting Friday night with Wu-Tang's very own Raekwon in 'The Emperor's New Clothes'. The Mass Appeal of this album to be followed by new labelmates Nas & DJ Premier, Mobb Deep, De La Soul, Big L, and Wu closest compadre, Ghostface Killah. Not to mention, the great adventures of Slick Rick, who started all this off, last month. But legend has it... Tyler Gregory Okonma could give a signature set like that, with his own defiant and definitive discography. You only have to hear the 'Don't Tap The Glass' title-track 'Tweakin'' and the big-three that comes next ('Don't You Worry Baby', 'I'll Take Care Of You', 'Tell Me What It Is') in closing to know this is creation in its purest, raw form. This Colombia record may be less than a half-hour (which Creator record isn't), but it's all power (like Tyler, always). Running game like 'Stop Playing With Me', and all the people Tyler has taken to town, or taken home, as he gets all his affairs in order.

Unexpected, like bird s###, albums are the norm now in rap. So much so, the surprise is almost spoiled. But they hype is real, with NBA G.O.A.T. LeBron James cosigning. Even though you'd never believe it if 'Bron said he saw it coming (he didn't...relax. These are just jokes, baby). He does appear in the latest 'Playing With Me' music video alongside childhood friend and business partner Maverick Carter and the Clipse (who, like Tyler, once dissed him. "Like that, 'Bron, 'Bron?"), mind you. Tyler's shortest album yet was probably his biggest promoted, as an art installation of this album artwork's giant caricature of the Creator channelling Cool James debuted outside Brooklyn's Barclays Center, encased in glass you shouldn't touch, tap, nor break. Vinyls, t-shirts and bucket hats (hey, Raekwon) have been selling like hot cakes, ever since. And ever since it was released this morning at 6.00AM, Eastern Standard Time (we've been waiting all day in the Far East), it's been jumping off like the outstanding opening track 'Big Poe', sampling 'Pass The Courvoisier, Part II', the iconic part track featuring Pharrell and Sean Combs...erm.

Three cryptic boxes, blue, yellow and red helped tease this album that starts its breakfast with 'Sugar On My Tongue', and lines to tap your spoon to, like, "Are you from Mars? Make your arms and legs shake, uh-huh/Give me that slice of cream, is it your birthday? Uh-huh/I got a brush, give me your wallet, I'll pay, uh-huh/Don't need no air, I stay down there 'til I fade (Girl, I'm dead)" Sounds like oral is the breakfast of champions, in this 'Rush' of blood to the head, as Tyler keeps it going down. 'Mommanem' keeps this top, ten track album moving. One that is as compelling as it is cohesive. Media channel Complex made a mistake by tweeting that this album would feature Kendrick and Earl Sweatshirt. But there is no Odd Future reunion here, breaking bread like Lionel Boyce on season four of 'The Bear'. No matter, that can all wait. Tyler stays 'Sucka Free' as he raps, "Odd Future, Wolf Gang, all the bros in here/You n####s bums, you never really figured it out/You the type to let a b#### wear a shoe in your house (Hah)/You the type to buy a chain before some furniture, couch/And you the type of n#### never had a fist hit your mouth (Bink-bink-bink, huh)/You ain't got no guap, no paper, ain't no ink/See, I'm that guy, give a f### what you think." Broken glass, everywhere. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Don't You Worry Baby', 'I'll Take Care Of You', 'Tell Me What It Is'.

Spin This: Tyler, The Creator - 'Chromakopia'.

REVIEW: AMI KUSAKARI - GARDEN STUDIES

4/5

Sakanature

There are few things in this world that have the beauty, tranquillity and serenity of a Japanese garden. 'Garden Studies', the debut LP from Ami Kusakari, is one of them. You will know Kusakari as the brilliant bassist of one of the best bands in Japan, Sakanaction. From monster records like 'Kaiju', to their 'Shintakarajima' signature. Taking inspiration from bassists like Red Hot Chilli Pepper, Flea, Este Haim and Stuart Zender (formerly of Jamiroquai), Ami Kusakari has also worked with Fender, who recently opened an outstanding flagship store in Tokyo, exploring The American Professional II Jazz Bass. Outside of Sapporo's very own Sakanaction, Kusakari has featured on records by Junlzawa ('Drift'), alongside cutting an EP with Mabanua and YonYon ('Iris/Pray For Peace'). Yet, these 'Garden Studies' seem to make for Ami's most personal project yet. A perfect "portable sound garden."

Ambience is at its finest in a beautiful bloom. Close to nature, Kusakari temporarily trades her bass for an inspired instrumental album. It begins with the 'Sound Of A Pier' that will take you higher than the tree like skylines in cities that at times overwhelm even the strongest of us. It's like stepping out into a fresh breeze by the sea, after the subtle alarm like opening segues into traditional instruments that feel as Japanese as paying your respects at a shrine. Teaching us to how to achieve moments of Zen on the cool 'Icy', a state of calm begins to become second nature as you put this record on in the middle of the night, or a new break of day. It grows even more on 'Ginkgo Tree', as atmospheric sounds and perfect piano washes over you. A ginkgo tree is ornamental, yellowing in Autumn before losing all its leaves in a single day. Falling as delicately as the sounds that envelope your ears here, and on the cinematic 'rustle', up next. Growing every day like a garden's renewal. Replenishing and healing.

'Under the soil', Ami gets even closer to earth and the nature of all things. We feel not only the transience of life, like 'mono no aware', but also the notion of all these moments we go through being forever etched in memory. There's a profound stillness of studying your garden that will stay with you, even through the darkest days, as you see the light of calm on the other side. Right now, in Japan, it's hotter than the July of a Stevie Wonder album, but as the refreshing 'RainFalls' this season, you'll feel even more bliss in this terrific take from Kusakari. Bringing you a sense of peace and release, what seems on the surface as a simple recording, is the very art of nature itself, and one of this record's best. Especially when chimes curtain close this track. All before the seventh seal and eight-minute wonder, 'a Garden', is the final note of these studies. This work from the Sakanaction member even evokes similar sounds to the posthumous 'Seeing Sound/Hearing Time' epic exhibition from late legend Ryuichi Sakamoto. Not to mention his other work, as the drums come into play. Kusakari's band are about to wrap up their tour in Yokohama's K-Arena this August, and we can't wait to hear what they have in store next. But as Ami amazes with her very own album in her garden, we hope to study more. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Sound Of A Pier', 'Ginkgo Tree', 'RainFalls'.

Spin This: Ami Kusakari.mabanua.YonYon - 'iris/pray for peace'

REVIEW: RAEKWON - THE EMPEROR'S NEW CLOTHES

4/5

Change Clothes 

Fairytales, like Wu-Tang, are for the children. In Hans Christian Anderson's ('The Little Mermaid', 'The Ugly Duckling') 'The Emperor's New Clothes', a vainglorious emperor is brought down to size when he is fitted for some garments that fit so close to the skin that...they don't even exist. These "invisible" clothes, paraded all through town, were the worst wardrobe malfunction known to man. One thing that does fit, mind you, is rap legend Raekwon in your rap cipher. From Clan boiler room suits, to his famous bucket hats. This year, feels like another renaissance in rap, especially with and for the old school heads. Even the brotherhood of Clipse reunited last week as they 'Let God Sort Em Out'.

There are plenty of Wu-Tang Clan reunions on Raekwon's eight wonder of an album, 'The Emperor's New Clothes'. Meth, Rae and Ghost get back together for the '600 School' favourite featuring Method Man Ghostface Killah. Whilst the iron heart of Tony Starks also appears on the back nine's 'Get Outta Here' and finale 'Mac & Lobster', as the pair with a cool new nickname, keep backing up each other's classic albums from 'Supreme Clientele', to 'Only Built For Cuban Lynx' and their respective sequels. Back when they may as well have been collaborative albums like the animated 'Wu-Massacre'. This Starsky and Hutch and Batman and Robin still go together like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Elsewhere, after his own album Inspectah Deck bites into 'Pomogranite' with Carlton Fisk. Stacy Barthe gives us '1 Life'. And Tommy Nova 'Opens Doors' with Corey Woods. Whilst Marsha Ambrosius hooks us in with the deepest cut of 'Debra Night Wine'. But even next to the posse cut of 'Wild Corsicans' (featuring Westside Gunn, Conway The Machine and Benny The Butcher), we'll save the best one for the last paragraph.

Classic down to the cover in red leather on 'Stranger Things' black, there's production from Swizz Beatz, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League and Nottz for the Rae's first album since 'The Wild' 2017. The Chef cooks up many a legendary line as well as the signature skits for a sensational set. "I'd rather be revered than feared" the icon proclaims on 'The Guy That Plans It' and boy is he. On the 'Heavies' he proves how much of a heavy hitter he really is with lines like, "Yo, Licatta cocktails, Bentleys, and oxtails/Catch me with the Grecian of whales, a redbone rat/What's happening?/Her ratchet ways, I had to just tame that, flip the Mulsanne back/Better off buying a jail, the luxury shit, Pakistan chef, and reps/So they can coach brothers to read scriptures and play chess." Lines as legacy making as the unmistakable voice of his that spits. Like he raps on '600', "Glass of gin for my jewelers/Too many rugas, gyms is 500/Bam, spam, I swam through Bermuda/Switches got muzzles/Soon as rebuttals happen, we guzzle/Then everything get twisted like a puzzle." And you know which piece fits.

A pioneer taking it higher. This is New York raw and uncut from the razor sharp lyricist who can make "Mafioso" rap cinematic, like a 'Goodfella'. For the hood ones, the best 'Bear Hill' is Raekwon's 'Made You Look'. Speaking of which, as previously promised, the classic collaboration of this new great LP belongs to 'The Omerta' featuring Nas ("Fascinating, appealing, underworld, but wonder girl/Dope fiends love it, shooting they nuggets up/Extreme criminality, I'm like the Rothsteins, the off-springs/All of this tucked, inside my galaxy/Frankie Yale of the jails, silks, diamond spiders, we master writers"). The Mass Appeal of this is that 'Legend Has It...' that very label will put out records from Nas & DJ Premier, Mobb Deep, De La Soul, Big L, Slick Rick (the valiant 'Victory' also came out last month), and Ghostface Killah, to go along with this one. Now, that sounds like more than just a great day in hip-hop. 2025 is going to feel like 50 years all over again. Chef's kiss. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Bear Hill', '600 School (Feat. Ghostface Killah & Method Man), 'Debra Night Wine (Feat. Marsha Ambrosius)'.

Spin This: Raekwon - 'Only Bulit 4 Cuban Lynx 2'.

REVIEW: CLIPSE - LET GOD SORT EM OUT

4/5

Lord's Will

"Kids, y'all need to stay away from anything that remotely looks like this, right here," Malice says, as he and his Pusha T brother unload clips at a shooting range. This was a scene from the 2003 short film 'The Eighth Planet' documenting super producers Chad Hugo and Pharrell Williams. All for a scene on a bonus DVD to their compilation album 'The Neptunes Presents...Clones'. And Malice wasn't 'Frontin''. Years later, one half of the 'Grindin'' pair from Virginia would turn to the church like Pastor Mase, and Lord knows what he has seen. After their 'Lord Willin'' debut changed the VA game like Timbaland and the late, great Magoo (Rest Peacefully), Clipse copped discs like the soaring sophomore set 'Hell Hath No Fury' and the perfect 'P###y' on the 'Barbershop' soundtrack, that you saw them freestyle, back in the business of 'The Eighth Planet' DVD. 2009's 'Til The Casket Drops' didn't hit quite the same way, but it was no death sentence. Now, a sweet sixteen years later, it's welcome back to Malice in a wonderland with his rapping partner, once again.

Clipse reload after the hiatus with 'Let God Sort Em Out', and meeting their maker, you're not going to get it for cheap any more, like a classic mixtape. Pusha T has been making solo sets and G.O.O.D.  Music for years, garnering Grammys like my man G. His most recent, 2022's 'It's Almost Dry', sealed his status. Now, God sorts them out with the blaring 'Ace Trumpets' deal of a single. Not to mention cameos from a worth the six figures Kendrick Lamar (on the flossing crack of 'Chains & Whips'), Tyler The Creator (the only 'P.O.V.' I mess with, I despise content creation, too) and John Legend (on the outstanding opener, 'The Birds Don't Sing', that paints a picture of everything Clipse have been through with the Voices Of Fire). But it's the big budget 'Inglorious Basterds', like Tarantino, that brings a re-upping old friend Ab-Liva back to the gang, scarring scalps. Elsewhere, Stove God Cooks helps heat up 'F.I.C.O.' The title-track, mind you, mixed with some Sia like 'Chandeliers', brings God M.C. Nas swinging like Ali. 

On the promo single 'So Be It', the perfect pair sample Talal Maddah's 'Maza Akool Wa Kad Hemto'. And it's perfect production like this that will keep you hooked across the set, bridge to chorus. That's what you get when Pharrell Williams is once again manning the boards, piece by piece. Vocally he even appears on a lion's share of tracks. Basically, the last half of the LP. 'E.B.I.T.D.A', 'So Far Ahead', 'All Things Considered', with The-Dream, and the classic closer 'By The Grace Of God', in all it's and His beauty. For all the initials on 'M.T.B.T.T.F.', Pusha T raps, "No confessions, questions, we contestin'/Fireworks'll send a message, iridescent/Slow him down like Robitussin, if you rush in/At your door when we address him, we gon' bless him". Whilst Malice counters, "Gunning and I'm grinning/In a Bugatti in my denim/This is the result of my vision/React with precision/But God only knows my intention." And it's just so good to hear them back together. The Gallagher's aren't the only brothers to reunite against the odds this year. This rap cipher is an oasis. And today is going to be the day that they throw it back to you. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Ace Trumpets', 'Inglorious Basterds (Feat. Ab-Liva)', 'By The Grace Of God (Feat. Pharrell Williams)'.

Spin This: Clipse - 'Hell Hath No Fury' 

REVIEW: BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN - TRACKS II: THE LOST ALBUMS

4/5

Runaway American Dreams

Back to Boss basics. This New Music (and movie and TV show) Friday, you have a choice, between watching 'F1' and the last season of Netflix's 'Squid Game'. Binge season four of 'The Bear' on Hulu and Disney +, starring Jeremy Allen White, who's about to play Bruce Springsteen in this fall's biopic, 'Deliver Me From Nowhere'. Or, binge The Boss, Bruce Springsteen himself's 'Tracks II: The Lost Albums'. A mere month after his 'Land Of Hope & Dreams EP' took it to Trump and a concert in Manchester, England. Sure, it's been three years since Springsteen's last set, the classic covers of 'Only The Strong Survive', not to mention, a half decade since his last 'Letter To You' of original material. But this box-set, treasure trove treat for the fans, spans four decades, seven discs, 83 songs, five hours and 19 minutes. Now you know why you need to binge. This even lasts longer than the latest culinary experience with 'The Bear' for your FX.

A classic Colombia compilation and follow up to the 'Tracks' '(the perfect accompaniment to his 'Songs' book) he tore through in 1998 (featuring personal favourites like 'Happy', 'Sad Eyes' and 'Trouble In Paradise') off of the hit from the vault, 'My Love Will Not Let You Down', this is Bruce's 'Lost Tapes' sequel, like Nas. The Jersey boy has separated these selections from the collections on the cutting room floor into seven separate thematic albums. The 'LA Garage Sessions '83', 'Streets Of Philadelphia Sessions', 'Faithless', 'Somewhere North Of Nashville', 'Inyo', Twilight Hours' and 'Perfect World'. But if this is too much Springsteen for you, Donald, as we look to Make America Boss Again, you can also cop the companion compilation 'Lost and Found: Selections From The Lost Albums', much like the '18 Tracks' that came after the '98 original. But the collectors of Boss completists and purists won't be able to get enough of the perfect album (or seven seals) to accompany you on a weekend afternoon, like the 'Sunday Love' best of the bunch. Three hundred, 19 minutes and 48 seconds of rare and archival session music that feel like real records as the successful singles of 'Rain In The River', 'Blind Spot', 'Faithless', 'Repo Men', 'Adelita' and the aforementioned 'Sunday Love' show and prove.

Out in Los Angeles, the lo-fi raw recordings begin with the notion to 'Follow That Dream'. A 'Fugitives One' and a ballad version to boot, keeps everything running like Harrison Ford away from Tommy Lee Jones. There's also an original version of 'My Hometown' across the boardwalk. But 'Don't Back Down On Our Love', 'Sugarland', 'Unsatisfied Heart' and 'Shut Out The Light' are the highlights. On 'The Klansman', Springsteen sings, "Word of the trouble spread around/One day, a man came through my town/I was in the kitchen when my pa let him in/Shook my hand, said, "Son, the Klan's your friend". Telling a troubling tale of generational hate, as racism is passed down a family tree like strange fruit. There's hope to come, however, on the U2 like 'One Love', with the words formed "One girl, one love/One dream in our hearts/Two hearts as one/One hope never to be torn apart," akin to his cover of Suicide's 'Dream Baby Dream' off of 'High Hopes'.

Springsteen says they believe the 90s was his "lost" period, and he's trying to right that wrong. The 90s, 'Streets Of Philadelphia' from the Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington, Jonathan Demme movie, was what got me into Bruce Springsteen in the first place, during the golden era of Americana, and everything entertainment related (see, Jordan, Michael and Park, Jurassic). As a matter of fact, 'Secret Garden', off of Tom Cruise's 'Jerry Maguire', directed by Cameron Crowe, remains not only my greatest Springsteen hit, but my favourite song, the lyrics taped up on my bedroom wall, back home. There's another sweet version of that, like the 'Blood Brothers EP' one of strings, on here, but it's the 90s as Gap commercials, 'Blind Spot' opening that will really hit you with nostalgia. 'Something In The Well', 'One Beautiful Morning' and 'Between Heaven and Earth' will make you wish for more output from this decade. Whilst you can find the likes of 'Maybe I Don't Know You' and lines like, "What's that dress you're wearing, baby?/I never seen that dress before/And tell me, what'd you do with your hair?/Is it somethin' new, somethin' you were gonna surprise me with?", down the divorced 'Tunnel Of Love'.

Those Philadelphia soul stories now just may be one of my favourite Springsteen albums. 'Faithless', like the 'Devils & Dust' for those who can't get no sleep, may just be yours. After 'The Desert' of an inspired instrumental introduction, 'Where You Goin', Where You From' will take you in like 'All God's Children'. 'A Prayer By The River' and 'The Western Sea' are also instrumental. Whereas, the theme of 'My Mater's Hand' is made for a movie, just as 'Goin' To California' charts. With the 'Nebraska' like 'Somewhere North Of Nashville' and its terrific title track coming after, these country spirits could find themselves equally on a Willie Nelson record, or Sam Shepard 'Cruising Paradise'  short story like the 'Inyo' that comes next. On 'Poor Side Of Town', an old lover returns, as the muse is warned, "To him, you were nothing but a plaything/Nothing more than an overnight fling/To me, you were the greatest/The greatest thing I had ever found/And it's hard to find nice things/On the poor side of town." The Nashville skyline shining as bright and bittersweet as it did in Dylan country.

Spaghetti western themes slap your plate from the spatula of 'Inyo', as Eno Moccirein would be proud of the cinematic likes of  'Adelita', 'The Lost Charro' and 'Our Lady Of Monroe'. With 'One False Move', Springsteen shoots, "On the streets of south Texas, I made my straight time/Workin' nights and pissin' in a cup/For my man down on State/Now I roll down the window and let in the cool, clear desert night/And that cold feelin' of my luck runnin' out." Whereas, on the 'Twilight Hours' of melancholic movie making sound tracking, The Boss directs us towards the table for 'Dinner At Eight', with reservations for two, ordering "A love, a home, a simple world of our own/Your voice on the phone/Dinner at eight, dinner at eight", which in essence is something we all want. 'Late In The Evening', 'Two Of Us' and 'September Kisses' yearn for more in this 'Lonely Own'. But it's 'I'll Stand By You', originally rejected by 'Harry Potter', before appearing on the brilliant 'Blinded By The Light' movie soundtrack, is the real great pretender, like what you and me were, before it all slipped away.

Eighty tracks, instead of eighteen, are too much to tell you about all in one review. Even if we wish we could in a 'Perfect World'. The rest is for you to explore, like this curtain call CD, highlighted by 'The Great Depression' and 'I'm Not Sleeping', which is what we wouldn't do any more, like the Counting Crows, if we took you through each record on 'Tracks II', track for track. Needless to say, it's as much a journey across America, as it is Springsteen's strong and sensitive soul, 'Another Thin Line', reaching across borders, and boundaries passed and past. 'Blind Man' and 'Cutting Knife' standout. Whereas 'You Lifted Me Up' is as beautiful as the falsetto of the truly lost track 'Lift Me Up' off of 'Limbo' and 'The Essential Bruce Springsteen'. There's so much to track, and like 'If Only I Could Be Your Lover ("If I could only be your lover/I'd never covet any other"), if only we could take it all in. Almost 75 tracks and a 17-minute accompanying documentary, with 'Tracks III' set to complete the trilogy in the next three years. Following last year's 'Best Of Bruce Springsteen', this record jacket and the linear notes to go with it, stay in. Tape up the tracks of these tears from the man who expressed every emotion in the hard worn and boot cut, jean weathered American dream. Reborn and ready to run again. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'LA Garage Sessions '83': 'Follow That Dream', 'Don't Back Down On Our Love', 'Fugitive's Dream'.

'Streets Of Philadelphia Sessions': 'Blind Spot', 'Maybe I Don't Know You', 'Secret Garden'.

'Faithless': 'God Sent You', 'Goin' To California', 'My Master's Hand'.

'Somewhere North Of Nashville': 'Poor Side Of Town', 'You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone', 'Somewhere North Of Nashville'.

'Inyo': 'Indian Town', 'El Jardinero (Upon the Death of Ramona)', 'When I Build My Beautiful House'.

'Twilight Hours': 'Sunday Love', 'September Kisses', 'Dinner At Eight'.

'Perfect World': 'The Great Depression', 'Rain In The River', 'If I Could Only Be Your Lover'.

Spin This: Bruce Springsteen - '18 Tracks'.

REVIEW: HAIM - I QUIT

4/5

Don't Quit Your Day Job

Never quitting whilst they're ahead, the sisterhood of Haim is back! Recently, I was talking to a bassist friend about the bands and albums that got us through COVID. Mine was definitely Haim's magnum California opus, 'Women In Music Pt. III', which was locked down for almost as long as we were. Ever since hearing the iconic, Lou Reed-esque, "Du-du, du-du-du-du/Du-du-du-du, du-du-du-du-du's" of 'Summer Girl' and its Paul Thomas Anderson video for The Valley Girls, I knew we had a classic on our hands, even if that does make me sound a little like LeBron James. Helping me through the isolation of social distance, halfway across the world, just one month after starting a new job in Tokyo, I needed 'WIMPIII'. Now, after Alana Haim starred in PTA's 'Licorice Pizza', award favourite movie, not to mention a bonus 'Lost Track', we get 'I Quit' from the sisters. Dealing with Danielle's break-up, and Este's, before she got engaged and broke my heart. Not to mention, all those men from the magazine who refuse to acclaim them as the rock goddesses that they are. C###s!

Haim keep it Hollywood like only they can with Anderson's fresh, dry-clean store took photo album artwork, and neon sign. Not to mention the La La Land paparazzi promotional photos for their singles, like the latest 'All Over Me' (featuring Will Poulter and co for the sexiest video since Maggie Rogers 'In The Living Room'), or the 'Relationships' first single, inspired by Nicole Kidman walking away from divorce court, with more relief than when we left our homes after quarantine. That vivid video of the summer girls features 'Queer' actor Drew Starkey. And if that wasn't enough, the second single video, and best of the set, 'Down To Be Wrong', features Percy Jackson himself, Logan Lerman, being haunted in his hotel by three ghosts that make those of Christmas past look like humbug. Bah! This is just a great slew of singles. Like the grungy, 90s take of 'Everybody's Trying To Figure Me Out' (co-written by Justin Vernon after Danielle appeared on Bon Iver's 'If Only I Could Wait'), that is just classic Haim. Or the Weezer like 'Memories' of 'Take Me Back', featuring a photo album music video that will take a s### in the back of your truck. No coke, or Molly!

A subtle, soft rock classic, that is as undeniable as it is understated, you'll hear it as soon as you're 'Gone' like the opener, that like the saxophone of 'Los Angeles' hits differently in its opening act. Sampling some of George Michael's 'Freedom'. This Colombia and Polydor album, and first in five years, is well worth the wait. Released exactly one month before my 40th (I'm just saying) and the beginnings of their tour that will see them play the Fuji Rock festival, here in Japan, alongside the likes of The Hives and headliner Vampire Weekend. Not only have they upped the ante of their definitive 'Days Are Gone' debut, and sweet spot follow-up 'Something To Tell You', they're also pushing the envelope of their signature sound that's now legacy in Cali' for all you Mamas and Papas, or Chili Peppers. The fact that they haven't played 'Everybody's Live (In LA) With John Mulaney' is a crime. 'The Farm' details these sisters having each other's backs during dark days. 'Million Years' sounds like nothing they've ever done before. Hollywood's own Alana takes the lead on '...Spinning'. Whilst the closing of 'Now It's Time' features a sick sample for your Shazams!

Remember when Haim solved a murder mystery with Este (how could anybody?) on Taylor Swift's 'No Body, No Crime', before Swiftie became the fourth sister on a deluxe edition remix of 'Gasoline'? Well, 'Blood On The Streets' has country tracks too, with its storytelling roots. Meanwhile, 'Cry' is epic and emotional. Whilst, 'Try To Feel My Pain' takes the church organs of Norah Jones' 'I Just Wanna Dance' up a notch for even more spirit. Another highlight is 'Lucky Stars', which counts on lyrics like, "I was on my own and finally/Trying to heal myself with all the/Roaring trains of change and doubt that/Pulled in the station/Your inner light beamed blue and green/Something 'bout it made you seem like/You could fill the seat next to me/Without complication." "I would take off the chain/But you wouldn't stop the rain/And now it's coming down/Flooding out this whole house", Danielle sings on 'Love You Right' as all three siblings found themselves single before making this cathartic, therapeutic album that has them ready to party now they're back in it. Quit?! Are you kidding me?! I will never quit on my best band. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Down To Be Wrong', 'The Farm', 'Lucky Stars'.

Spin This: Haim - 'Women In Music Pt. III'

REVIEW: SLICK RICK - VICTORY

4/5

Rick Flair

Ready for 'Another Great Adventure' of the one and only, Slick Rick? Because The Ruler's well and truly back behind these bars, for the first time in 26 years and 1999's, 'The Art Of Storytelling'. Call it a comeback, like LL Cool J's 'The Force', or MC Lyte's '1 Of 1', with more legends to come for this great day, no, year in hip-hop. A few calendars following its half-century celebration. As a matter of fact, call it a 'Victory' in black and white as the eye patch is back to reclaim his crown, like all those jewels that run with him. The greatest British rapper of all-time, who found a home in New York, brings it all back together with the likes of Giggs ('Stress'), Nas ('Documents') and actor/musician Idris Elba providing the visual album. From Mandy Aragones' spoken-word intro, to the 'I Did That dedication, and interludes dedicated to 'Mother Teresa' and the 'Matrix', Morpheus, Ricky D is still fresh like Doug E. A Slick Rick era begins again.

Y'all tucked in? Heeere we go! On 'Angelic', Rick raps, "Ladidadi, quick, daddy, come shipment/Another rumble in this b####, daddy, once hit chords/Do you want another hit, papi? Quick to stitch/Who told me I should quick, daddy? Bore me broad/Body starts to dip, daddy, holy s###, kid/Big time in this b####, daddy, hold the force/Who's sexier than a b####, daddy? Blast a bar/Angelic type of hit, daddy, crash me car" with a formidable flow over beautiful beats. And it goes on and on, on 'Foreign', as the British/Jamaican/American is no stranger to these shores, reworking his grandpa's old favourite to something you'll love...even if grandaddy don't. But hey, 'Come On Let's Go' and rock with rhymes like, "Sеxiness a crime, kid, what time is it?/Flying, Richard, I guеss 'bout/Gets next round 'fore we gets out/Steps out, cab route, gets 'bout/Now back to insult to intelli'/Yelling, any see the felon, shelling, killing run and tell him/What!/But there isn't, square isn't/Ya nerd!"

As real and raw as it gets, but the freshest since he got 'Irresistible Delicious' with Missy Elliott (thank you, Missy!), it gets even slicker on the "Well, it's the first of the month, my, where the time went? (Ding-dong)/Hello, you wanna give my rent? (Give me my rent)/You're three months behind, chick, I'm highly disappointed/Tired of huntin' you down like America's most wanted/Now hurry up, my car's in traffic/Oh, great, another excuse not to have it/"My poor kid's short, Rick," your excuses sure get sadder/But, chick, you're not paying my mortgage (My rent)" rhymes collected for 'Landlord' and the greatest storyteller hip-hop has ever had. It gets even deeper on 'Spirit To Cry' and down on 'So You're Having My Baby', which references Shyne, J-Lo and you know who. Hip-hop may have taken some hits lately (namely the evils of Diddy), but the best of the best still reign. 'Cux I'm Here', Ricky says with "So kid Slick Rick, here we go!/Walkin', sportin', New York, son!/Spot two chicks hop skip, ice blinging!" Victory is his! And 'We're No Losing' as "Champion еxcelsiors/Or dismantle myself is/Any opportunity/Sеnd me out to ruin these/End you, all are soon to see/Anyway, I'm bothering/Acting like a snob like something I can offer them/While on the flip side" attests. Crown it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Stress (Feat. Giggs)', 'Documents (Feat. NaS)', 'Spirit To Cry'

Spin This: Slick Rick - 'The Great Adventures Of Slick Rick'.

 

REVIEW: NEIL YOUNG AND THE CHROME HEARTS -TALKIN TO THE TREES

3.5/5

The Tree Of Life

Like a 1959 Cadillac sticking out the sand, 'On The Beach', Neil Young is back with some Chrome Hearts for you crazy horses, with power. But this time, you can find them planted in the forest for 'Talkin To The Trees', Young's 48th album on The Other Shoe and Reprise Records. Recorded in the legendary Shangri La studios of Malibu and produced by the legendary Lou Adler (The Mamas and the Papas, Carole King), a regular courtside fixture at Laker games, like Jack Nicholson. Opening with 'Family Life' in dedication, and 'Thankful' in tribute closing, this album like it's pencilled in, guitar holding cover is as real as it gets, taking it to "fascists" in "Teslas", coiling around the chords. Fearful of the 'Dark Mirage' in this upside down world, singing "Well I lost my little girl/To the darkness inside/Her mama's gone now/And there's nowhere to hide." Hoping to make it to the warmth of the 'First Fire Of Winter', where it's "time to gather wood and feeling/It's time to walk among the love."

"Time's ripe now for changin'" he laments like a lost Dylan. Flying on the same 'Silver Eagle' he ran to, through the title-track. Rocking in this world until it's free as 'Let's Roll Again' strums that notion into a devotion. "The climate is changing, why aren't you" a banner asks as Young beds peace in the sediment of the mother earth that really laid our roots. Calling Ford, GM, Chrysler and of course, America to "get in the race". Adding "China's way ahead, they're buildin' clean cars", as he lights a fire under the hood of those who need to know we can't take this same road forever. 'Big Change' is coming, like the ultimate protest song that sings, "Might be a politician/Tryna say something new/Might be your decision/Now you've got to see it through/Looks like a collision/Ain't the worst that you could do/Might be bad, might be good/Big change is coming to you." The man who took on Spotify isn't afraid of the President, as this Canadian knows you can't take his land, like Mike Myers on SNL with "elbows up!"

'Movin' Ahead', the man with almost as many bands as he has albums, keeps on trucking on chrome wheels and steel hearts. "Keep movin' ahead, wherever you go, movin' ahead/That's the way home, that's the way home/On in the future where the love is found/Where the love is found, where the love is found/Yeah, movin' ahead where the love is all 'round/That's the word, the word is good/Good for the soul to sing like it should/Movin' ahead, movin' ahead", he sings to anyone who feels they can believe again. Or wants too. Rolled up for a message in a 'Bottle Of Love'. "Open fields of heaven waiting/For that little girl, still in her eyes/Years of love we were creating/Taking the time to fly/All your tears are being saved/In a bottle of love. The man married to Darryl Hannah makes a beautiful splash as the trees sway. Musk, Trump. They can all get it, as they're falling out on Young's big and bold new album of chrome. But really, among all this mess, what he's looking for best, is peace and prosperity of this land, and the earth that makes it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Family Life', 'Big Change', 'Thankful'.

Spin This: Neil Young & Crazy Horse - 'Early Daze'.

REVIEW: CYNTHIA ERIVO - I FORGIVE YOU

4/5

Wicked Wisdom 

Forgive me not, but Cynthia Erivo is wicked good. In the same week that the terrific trailer for her highly-anticipated sequel to her smash hit movie, with fellow pop princess Ariana Grande ('Wicked For Good'), comes out, we get a brand-new studio album from Stockwell, London's finest. All on the same New Music Friday that fellow actor Finn Wolfhard, of 'Stranger Things' fame, tries his hand at making an indie album ('Happy Birthday'). You'd be forgiven for forgetting all about Lil' Wayne's sequel to his own series, 'Tha Carter VI', when there's so much movie-making going on. Only a few months after she was off to duet with The Wizard of Oz himself, Jeff Goldblum, like Grande, on the jazzy Mildrid Snitzer Orchestra, 'Still Blooming'. Erivo's epic is her first solo set since 2021's 'Ch. 1 Vs. 1', which peaked at number Luka Dončić (77) on the Billboard Hot 100. Figure this one to do even better numbers after the 'Wicked' soundtrack became a number one hit like the movie it underscored.

Defying gravity, once again, Cynthia is as compelling as she was in playing everything from the real as it gets Harriet Tubman (sorry, Julia Roberts' publicist), to 'Pinocchio's' Blue Fairy. The 'Widows', 'Bad Times At The El Royale' and 'Luther: The Fallen Sun' star has always had a voice. And as soon as the atmospheric and classic 'More Than Twice' comes into play, you won't think twice, like the great Celine Dion's voice. Cynthia Erivo is just that much of a powerhouse singer on 'I Forgive You' as pop continues to be in the pure place of pride that recent albums from Miley Cyrus and fellow actress Selena Gomez (with production partner and hubby to be, Benny Blanco) have proven. Spreading her black swan wings, like her gorgeous and glamorous nails and baring all in black and white, the angelic, shaven head singer gives us songwriting at its most stripped down and beautiful in this script.

Singles that 'Replay' like 'The Worst Of Me' (or 'Best Of Me' beginning), take the lead on the Verve of this 20-track Republic record, all the way to the 'Grace' notes that call it a day. Inspired interludes, akin to what the likes of Carl Thomas used to do, punctuate this collection (Annie Lennox's 'Why', 'Until You Saw Me' and the title-track), feeling like songs themselves, like the cover of Marin Gaye's 'I Want You', done with yearning decadence. Building 'Brick By Brick' in the chamber of the heart, Cynthia asks, "I'll apologise, I swear I will/But you first/I'll bring back your smile, your joy to fill/But you first/I'll turn a blind eye while with your beauty you beguile/But you first/But you." Honed for two years with songwriter and producer Will Wells, this sensual and sexual album takes cues off everybody from Toni Braxton to Prince as it unbreaks your heart like the beautiful ones. Smashing any picture, that 'Wicked' would be her green day, typecast success, Erivo previewed the likes of 'She Said', 'Why' and 'I Choose Love' at a London listening event to rave reviews.

Embracing and expressing everything about herself, not to mention the grand genres of pop, R&B, folk and gospel music, this album of the week may also be the most personal and profound part of Cynthia's career. The 'Push And Pull' comes with the likes of 'Save Me From You' ("I saw how you saw me when I looked in your eyes/The hurt that you buried in the grave of your heart/And I still remember the tears that you left/They live like a scar on my mind") and 'Play The Woman' ("Do you wanna start a game where I guess where you are?/I'll close my eyes, hold my arms out and try to close the space between us/I could run these hands of mine down the map of your spine/Feel how your heat against my fingertips could make the blood in me rush"). Outstandingly operatic. Agonisingly atmospheric. This is 'What You Want' in all the devoted dedications that make pop more mature and not just a global genre. It's a 'Holy Refrain' that reaches for the Holy Ghost to tell you that you'll 'Be Okay'. We all have dark days and low points. On 'How Could I Fall', Cynthia is with us, singing in solidarity "Laughter, you feel like laughter/Rolling around in this rapture/You're a singular delight, and I'm captured." Sometimes when we fall again, it's because we fall in love...and that's when we soar. What's gravity when the wings of an angel sweep us away? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'More Than Twice', 'I Want You (Interlude)', 'Grace'.

Spin This: 'Wicked: The Soundtrack'.

REVIEW: FINN WOLFHARD - HAPPY BIRTHDAY

3.5/5

Birthday Boy

Different things are happening with 'Stranger Things' star Finn Wolfhard. It's a new day for the 'Ghostbusters' franchise face in this chapter two. In the same week that Eleven's Mike appeared on Netflix's Tudum promoting the fifth and final season of 'Stranger Things' coming this fall, rocking a buzz cut, the former floppy haired kid follows in the footsteps of Scoops Ahoy co-stars Maya Hawke and Joe Kerry in releasing a solo album. 'Happy Birthday' comes after his work with The Aubreys ('Karaoke Alone' and the EP, 'Soda & Pie') and features the singles 'Crown', 'Trailers After Dark' (with a beautifully created video), 'Choose The Latter' (with two videos to choose from, pre- and post-cut) and the outstanding 'Objection!' for his grandpa. "The snow is starting to fall, circling Waterloo/The coat that's soaked from the bar/The cursed witches' brew/The happiness of it all, set back by you", Finn sings for his geologist grandfather.

A lovely lyricist, who makes art with his studio canvas, like the amazing album cover, Finn Wolfhard's raw and ready 'Birthday' confirms him as a compelling indie darling with daring. Especially on 'Everytown There's A Darling', or the opening title-track as you blow the candles out. Think of him like a young Pete Yorn, who had a 'Break-Up' with a Black Widow, before appearing as an actor himself in Scorsese's 'Killers Of The Flower Moon'. But 'Wait', there's more on this nine-track when Wolfhard growls, "I can't sing anymore/How many more?/How many days?/Sinkin', speakin'/How many more I have to wait?/Just watch me fall into the deep/And the great beyond wraps around my feet/Ooo-ooo-oo-oo, oo-ooo-oo-oo/Ooo-ooo-oo-oo, oo-ooo-oo-oo/Ooo-ooo-oo-oo, oo-ooo-oo-oo", in closing. Lost in the woods with Bon Iver sensibilities and vivid vulnerability. In a crowded New Music Friday, from the 'Wicked' good Cynthia Erivo, to Lil' Wayne getting another 'Carter', this is one of the best. Let alone better than 90% of movie stars that turn into music ones. And that's no insult. From 'Jurassic World' star Scarlett Johansson, to 'Frankenstein's' Oscar Isaac, they all hold their own.

On 'Eat', he really knows how to as he reels us in with some beautiful bait, like, "You got me hooked, I'm a fish on a line/Steady hands, I know I roll in with the tide/You know, I know, I've waited all day/You know, I know, I've waited all day/My body's eating itself all day/My body's eating itself all day/Ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh." The fan of the harmonies knows how to all make it flow together like, 3, 6, 9, as one, two, three, he gives us the eighth wonder of 'You' (and more "oohs", and we love it) and a perfectly penned dear devotion in a young songwriter that knows how to do more than just deliver a script written by somebody else. "Can't breathe when you talk to me/Loneliness says all the things that you mean/I'm not lost on you but you're staring at me/Comin' out to say the words and roll down my stream," is all his own, and it means much more as he crosses the streams to his own studio space. Sounding like a fresh breath, as he turns his career upside down before his directorial debut, Happy Birthday to you, Finn Wolfhard. Forget a mic drop, it's time to pick this up. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Crown', 'Objection!', 'Everytown There's A Darling'.

Spin This: Maya Hawke - 'Chaos Angel'

REVIEW: LIL' WAYNE - THA CARTER VI

3.5/5

Wayne's World

Get Carter. Because he's back. Lil' Tunechi. Lil' Wayne. Weezy F. Baby. Please say the "baby". And it may be the last time, for the first time since 'The Funeral' of 2020. Or 2023's collaborative album with 2 Chainz ('Welcome 2 Collegrove'). The sinister sixth instalment of 'Tha Carter' series, for the best one since Shawn, is one of the most stellar in a set which hit its peak in its trilogy, highlighted by a 'Lollipop' tour of the Las Vegas strip with the late, great Static Major (rest peacefully). Now for Dwayne Carter's fourteenth album, he brings out the big guns, as the block is hot again with skateboards and guitars for the rock star who is also not a human being. Seven years since 'Tha Carter V', this sixth sense seals the deal for one of the best rap runs for the record.

Since the reunion with Nicki Minaj and Drake and the beef with Birdman, Weezy has been busy. He gave us 'Tha Fix Before Tha VI' as he continued to make monumental mixtapes, and he also reacted to a Superbowl snub in his hometown New Orleans with a commercial for his classic home run. Recently he's been trying to clear Billie Eilish samples, and move on from this album's production partner, Kanye West, due to his own controversies. Even without two of the biggest names in the industry, another one still does the business. BigXthaPlug and Jay Jones show they are 'Hip-Hop' on a track as such. Whilst the grillz jaws of Wayne get their teeth into a monster collaboration, swimming with the 'Sharks' of Jelly Roll and Big Sean. The 'Collegrove' connection with 2 Chainz is back again on the sweet, single made 'Cotton Candy', but there's a real reunion with Hot Boy Mannie Fresh on 'Bein Myself'. Meanwhile, Lil Novi arrives on 'Mula Komin In' and Kameron Carter shows he's one on 'Rari'. Like father, like son.

There may be 'No Love' on another great Eminem collaboration (we can't wait for those two to 'Drop The World' again), however 'Alone In The Studio With My Gun', there is one with MGK and Kodack Black for your snap. Still, from taking the crown as 'King Carter', to rocking the 'Bells' like LL, Wayne shows he is still a part of 'Written History' when it comes to rap's legacy. He doesn't need any help, he can release almost 20 track albums all by himself, like Celine Dion. His response record, 'Banned From NO', helps prove that as he 'Welcome(s) (us) To Tha Carter' once again. The rest is just 'Peanuts 2 N Elephant', as the tattooed child returns for 'Illmatic' like album art, even if ears would have Dumbo on this track. The biggest blockbuster collaborations come from outside the hip-hop sphere, for some of the best records on the LP. U2's Bono is back for 'The Days' after his work on DMX's posthumous album. Whilst Andrea Bocelli gives us the operatic love of 'Maria', along with Wyclef, who did that twice with a 'Supernatural' Santana. The Fugee giving us his best Wayne's world collaboration since the priceless mixtape gem 'Operate On Me'.

"I'm lit off the stove, you ain't gotta reheat it/I been getting dough, I just had to redeem it/I just talked to Hov and he told me he seen me/Funny, heard the same thing when I talked to Stevie, damn," Wayne raps on 'Flex Up' as he pushes rhymes like Ice Cube weight. Going against anybody, whatever the weather. Drizzy or not. The villain gets his 'Loki's Theme' revenge, as the God trickster has plenty of magic up his sleeve. Although a little off-key with his 'Island In The Sun' sample, Weezer F. Baby makes light work of 'Island Holiday's' harmony refrain on a green album classic, asking "What you drinkin', baby (sip, sip)". At this point, the rap God and rock star is playing with us as he ponders, 'If I Played Guitar'. Knowing, damn well ('Rebirth'), that he does. "She be playing mind games and I'm a master minder/I'm a sucker for love, but I ain't pacifier/But I can't deny ya, I'm a man on fire/She's a man-eater and I was just an appetizer/But if s### get out of hand, I keep sanitizer/She said, "I'm too hot for your ass," and now my pants on fire". Keeping those relationship records on point. We hope this isn't the break-up, like Young Thug releasing the name change of 'Barter 6' in his honour. But if this really is it, like 'The Days' being used in the NBA Finals too, Wayne still wins. Hitting big like Tyrese Haliburton. Now, he's the real MVP, OK? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Bells', 'The Days (Feat. Bono)', 'Maria (Feat. Wyclef & Andrea Bocelli)'.

Spin This: Lil'Wayne - 'Tha Carter IV'

REVIEW: MILEY CYRUS - SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL

4/5

Beauty Behind The Madness

Tabloids may have tweaked on all that Thicke twerking, but over the last decade, Miley Cyrus has done so much more. How about a big-three? And we aren't even talking about the 'Charlie's Angels' theme tune with fellow generational greats Ariana Grande and Lana Del Rey, so don't call her "angel", no matter how amazing that was. The 'Wrecking Ball' singer came through with a beautiful rendition of 'Silent Night' for the festive feeling of Sofia Coppola and Bill Murray's 'Lost In Translation' reunion, 'A Very Murray Christmas'. She also played the perfect pop star on an episode of 'Black Mirror', right when her fame was going nuclear. But the best thing might have been her collabo with Godmother Dolly Parton on her country album ('Younger Now') for the all-encompassing love of 'Rainbowland'. Since that reconciliation album, she gave us 'Plastic Hearts' during COVID, for one of 2020s best, and then, only two years ago, on an 'Endless Summer Vacation', and vein of form for the still only 32, former Disney star, she gave herself her own 'Flowers' after her split with actor Liam Hemsworth.

Now, on a ninth wonder of an album, she gives us 'Something Beautiful'. Something even more beautiful. Not to mention the freshest and best pop album of the year since Selena Gomez and engaged producing partner Benny Blanco told each other 'I Said I Love You First'. Gaudy and glorious, like the diamond portrait of the album artwork, this is cinematic and classic. With inspired interludes across the board, big collaborations with Brittany Howard (the Hollywood 'Walk Of Fame') and supermodel Naomi Campbell (for 'Every Girl You've Ever Loved'), not to mention a showstopping single in the 'End Of The World'.  If Miley wasn't as big as contemporaries like Lady Gaga and such, you'd be crazy to think she wasn't now. From a perfect 'Prelude' to these ends after the title-track, and a 'Give Me Love' demand in devotion to curtain counter, this beautiful body of work really is something. Why 'Pretend To Be God' when she is HER?

Fresh neon soundscapes accompany this Tennessee kid to the LA studios of Bandrika and Subtle McNugget (any fries with that?) on an album released this New Music Friday, on May 30th (Happy Birthday, Sis!). With a musical film of the same name to come, June 6th, this visual, existential album, scores as the perfect soundtrack like a 'Purple Rain'. As long as the movie isn't meant to make you suffer (and that's a Lake Minnetonka reference, not diss). Healing from trauma and finding beauty in all the darkness, Miley is 'Reborn', sampling Davidson's 'Work It' and giving us music videos for 'More To Lose' and 'Easy Lover'. This classic Colombia record even features Kid Harpoon, The War On Drugs and Danielle Haim on electric guitar, after her Bon Iver duet, and before she says 'I Quit' with her sisters next month for the new Haim album. Just like when they both came out in 2020, these women in music are giving it to the wimps again, as I put my hand up.

Epic escapism in psychedelia is bright like a 'Golden Burning Sun'. Inspiring through the impermanence of life with 'More To Lose'. On the title track of this Shawn Everett produced engrossing work Cyrus sings, "Oh, flash, bang, spark/Send home the guards and lay down your arms/And da-da-da-da-da-da/The great golden bomb, bomb, bomb/Boy, I'm losing my breath, yes/Boy, you're marking up my necklace/Boy, I'm losing my breath/I'm undressing, I'm confessing that I'm so obsessed, yes." Just like on the closer, when she writes, "I imagine a place at the dawn of creation/A cityscape we paint in the dark/There's a castle between this obscene blue horizon/Where golden apples hang in the trees and a bare lady sings/Behind the curtain, heaven awaits." The words of these lasting, legacy making lyrics carry so much weight, but the intonation carries even more influence. This sweet style of experimental, homage music is the boldest and best since Halsey's last great pretender. Pop is still in that pure place with this popera. At her most beautiful. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'End Of The World', 'Walk Of Fame (Feat. Brittany Howard)', 'Every Girl You've Ever Loved (Feat Naomi Campbell)'.

Spin This: Miley Cyrus - 'Endless Summer Vacation'.

REVIEW: ESTELLE - STAY ALTA

3.5/5

British Woman

Nostalgia has got me in my fond feelings. Somewhere in the 2000s, and my twenties, watching every hip-hop gig I could change a shift to get to, from Manchester to London. All the Apollo Theatres. All the stars. Ja Rule, Nelly, Nas, Jay-Z. The Wu-Tang Clan. Most, if not all, opened by British singer/songwriter and rapper Estelle, fresh off of her dynamic debut, 'The 18th Day' (2004), behind singles like '1980', 'Free' and 'Go Gone'. I could have sworn she winked at me one time...but that's just me, getting to gigs early so I could stand at the front. From Beverley Knight to Amy Winehouse, London's own Estelle Fanta Swaray was a part of the British urban soul revolution. Giver her a MOBO Lifetime Achievement. Because she's forever a legend like Eternal. Even before the 'Shine' of her sophomore set and the Kanye West produced megahit 'American Boy'. Working with the likes of will.i.am, Akon, Tyler, The Creator, and the cast of 'Empire'. Since then, she's given us 'All Of Me', like a 'True Romance', and she doesn't care that everyone wants the next 'American Boy', as she takes it back to the musical roots she calls home. That may be her greatest hit, but we need another 'American Boy' about as much as we need another Kanye tweet. No matter how great a song, or genius artist that and he is.

Leaving them Hollywood types for the hills, yet still with that number one champion sound. Instead, Estelle tells us to 'Stay Alta' on her sixth LP and first album in seven years, following the 'Lovers Rock' of 2018. The 'Alta' artist in gold letters on an epic emerald green album artwork, with the hands of a free flowing dress to match, returns to form and an album that makes her as compelling and cohesive as luminaries like the great Brits Lianne La Havas and Corrine Bailey Rae. The album, coming just in time for another beautiful British summer, features the moving singles 'Fire' and 'Oh I', complete with their own dance videos to step to. Not to mention the 'New Direction' featuring new big names on the block LaRussell and Kevon Harrold. Check the slowed down live version of this single and the 'Love On Love' dedication for more heart to this soul. The tenacious talent inspired by everyone from Ella Fitzgerald to Mary J. Blige also features collaborations with some real movers and shakers for a record that doesn't stop dancing.

She's 'Grateful' to them, too, like this track with Teedra Moses and Russell Taylor. Whereas the studio version of 'Love On Love' features D-Nice. Another legend, in an explicit Joi brings 'Fire'. Whilst Channel Tres tunes into the title-track. As we 'Let It Drop' with Durand Bernarr. All before the sweet "Honey Honey" you'll move and sing along slowly too is 'On Time' with Aida Rodriguez and Nonchalant Savant. Yet from the 'Outside' opening, to the outro to 'Start Over' to, it's the lyric video of 'Roses (Now's The Time)' that finally gives this somewhat underrated superstar her flowers. "I had to let go of the pain/Had to let go of the things/That I was born with when I came/I was given with my name/And only I could do the chore/I leveled up the score/Breathed life into my core." If that isn't resolve that could never be sold, I don't know what to buy into any more. Just 'Like He Is'. The Lord or love. Or perhaps both. "I think I'll keep it like it is/I don't know which way that the sun's gon' shine/But, oh, I'll keep it like it is." Like 'Alta', until the altar, stay, Estelle, stay. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'New Direction (Feat. LaRussell & Keyon Harrold)', 'Oh I', 'Roses (Now's The Time').

Spin This: Estelle - 'Shine'

REVIEW: BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND - LAND OF HOPE & DREAMS EP

4/5

Manchester United.

Only yesterday, with what looked like complicity, I talked about how we shouldn't judge Snoop Dogg's new album on the fact that he performed at Trump's inauguration. Part of me felt like a dirty dog doing it, but I can still like Snoop and not how he performs. Besides, reviews are supposed to be fair, balanced and without bias. With that being said, when you come against my Boss, that's another matter altogether. Springsteen said this, "In my home, the America I love, the America I’ve written about, and has been a beacon of hope and liberty for 250 years, is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent and treasonous administration", at a recent concert (May 16th) in Manchester, England. To which Trump replied, "I see that Highly Overrated Bruce Springsteen goes to a Foreign Country to speak badly about the President of the United States. Never liked him, never liked his music, or his Radical Left Politics and, importantly, he's not a talented guy - Just a pushy, obnoxious JERK, who fervently supported Crooked Joe Biden, a mentally incompetent FOOL, and our WORST EVER President, who came close to destroying our Country."

Erm. First things first, Trump seems to have forgotten he used to play Springsteen's 'Born In The U.S.A.' at his rallies, before he was told to stop, like he never knew what the song was really about. Secondly, let's leave President Biden out of this, who we wish a healthy recovery. And don't get me started on the overrated nonsense. As Springsteen urged us to "rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism and let freedom ring." Whereas all Trump had to say was, "This dried out ‘prune’ of a rocker (his skin is all atrophied!) ought to KEEP HIS MOUTH SHUT until he gets back into the Country, that’s just ‘standard fare. Then we’ll all see how it goes for him!" THAT sounds like a threat. Not just to Bruce's civil rights, but the same freedom and democracy the great America we once knew and still do was built upon. And that comment about the skin, I said I wouldn't do this after my review of 'The Apprentice', but has he looked in the mirror? I know I have...and DAMN! He's just jealous, like I am in Japan, watching my best friend see this show in the city I did some summers ago. Bringing Santa Claus out for an early Christmas coming to town.

Jealous, like Donald's comments about Taylor Swift's "hotness" after he said he hated her. Here's an example of a man taking pride in making comments of hatred about a woman decades his junior. Even if she is much more competent. Neither Springsteen, nor Trump, is backing down in this battle for America's soul. Yesterday, a mere month before he's set to release his unreleased back catalogue for the mega 'Tracks II: The Lost Albums', Springsteen surprisingly released his 'Land Of Hope & Dreams EP' in black and white. Taking that song and his 'City Of Ruins' with some inspired interludes introducing the songs against Trump's influence. They're on the record now. All as Trump hits back with a stupid meme as they both double-down. Hitting him with a golf ball? Now, watch this drive. Just like Springsteen sings on 'Land Of Hope & Dreams', "I will provide for you/And I'll stand by your side/You'll need a good companion for/This part of the ride/Leave behind your sorrows/Let this day be the last/Tomorrow there'll be sunshine/And all this darkness past." That's what the real boss of all bosses and the working class hero has been doing for decades. Can the President really say that?

Springsteen even repurposes his 'Long Walk Home' ode to match the tone of his country, right now. A lot like when pop's perfect Pink made a real exclamation with her political 'What About Us', disguised as a song about broken hearts. Which it still was, in all earnest. The same could be said for 'My City Of Ruins', a song written for all of those who lost their lives in 9/11 as Bruce Springsteen & The E Street band rallied everyone in New York and the watching world to "RISE UP", like they do for their country again now. With these hands, Springsteen writes lines like, "Now the sweet bells of mercy drift through the evening trees/Young men on the corner, like scattered leaves/The boarded up windows, the empty streets/While my brother's down on his knees." Always speaking for the poor and downtrodden under the sneakers that Republicans buy too. Springsteen even brings his cover of Bob Dylan's 'Chimes Of Freedom' back, like the 90s EP of the same name, to finish this extended play, ringing the klaxon again. "Striking for the gentle, striking for the kind/Striking for the guardians and protectors of the mind/And the poet and the painter far behind his rightful time/And we gazed upon the chimes of freedom flashin'", Bob, Bruce, and we all should sing. This land can dream of hope again. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Set-list Picks: 'Land Of Hope & Dreams', 'Long Walk Home', 'Chimes Of Freedom'.

Spin This: Bruce Springsteen - 'Chimes Of Freedom EP'.

REVIEW: CHUCK D PRESENTS ENEMY RADIO - RADIO ARMAGEDDON

4/5

Deep Impact

Like a Led Zeppelin Hindenburg, on his black and white album artwork, Chuck D is a Public Enemy once again. All in the same week that Snoop Dogg asks 'Iz It A Crime', giving evidence for this to be a great New Music Friday in hip-hop, especially out west with the 'Kingmaker' Xzibit giving us a comeback album to highlight the onslaught. Flavour Flav's P.E. brother's first solo set since 2023's 'We Wreck Stadium' (the last Enemy album was 2020's aptly titled, 'What You Gonna Do When The Grid Goes Down'), feels more like a group project. As Chuck D Presents 'Enemy Radio' and the album 'Radio Armageddon', feeling like a 'Radio Nowhere' call to arms for rap's Springsteen.

"All things must die so they can live", the artwork of this Def Jam Recording tells us. And right out the gates, after the album self-titled intro, D rocks "Philosophy, politics, rebellion, recovery/Gimmicks, magic, inspiration, music/Fans, the road, drums, sexy/Racism/Rock and roll is the white version of rhythm and blues, okay?/No, I mean, this not no prejudice thing, so don't do that, alright?/I'm just tellin' you the real truth/Religion, industry, doom", over telling us 'What Rock Is'. All as this hall of famer and pure poet still has game like another Denzel and Spike Lee movie. 'Highest 2 Lowest', you can't touch him too. And even though there is no A$AP Rocky, or Rihanna, there is a cast collection of unique artists making their mark on this 808 canvas. All mattering as we proclaim 'Black Don't Dead', like DJ Too Tuff. These 'New Gens' ready for their moment with hip-hop's forefather in the forefront.

CM AKA Creative gives us a 'Station Break'. All as Phill Most Chill goes 'Rogue Runnin'' like an 'Andor' season. 1/2 Pint and Miranda Writes asks 'Is God She?' as Chuck attests, "My brother, my sister, my father, my mother Go deep past the sleep where God pulled back the cover/Let's get within inside the skin, blood runneth under/The ways of man ain't so kind, the blind stands to suffer/No compassion, crashin', testosterone sin/Exile, classified, we can't think again/Check a hero, don't confuse her with his masculine fix/Swear to God, she could never be no son of a b####." Now, what did we just tell you about that poetry? It's in motion still for the 'Station Identification'. Then The Impossebulls come charging in like Chicago for 'Here We Are Heard'. Lend your ears to the 'Superbagg' of Black Madeen, or what ULTRAMAG7 has here as 'Carry On', and you'll see that nothing is fumbled. Especially when D meets another one in Donald D and Jazzy J for the sweet 'Slight Story Style Sound'.

Yet before the Def Comedy Jam like 'Signing Off' with Schoolly D, Chuck D asks 'What Are We To You?' on a fresh and raw choice cut. "All over the place, I may not got no friends/I'm burnin' a damn candle at three ends/But I know myself, you might not know who I am/You probably pack right up, go home and say, "Damn" (Yeah)/If your mental got a problem with this rap instrumental/What's the color of time got to do with these rhymes?/Say the darker the berry, say the thicker the juice/New generation's hatin', that same old truth/Why the same shit be happenin' 'til we long in the tooth?/Pеople, people bе people, the red blood is the truth/The red pill will be taken in case you feel ill/You know the time to run, it's time to get ill." Real rhymes to go with the track's title question, over and over again in chorus, asking "who are we?" Chuck D and the rest of Public Enemy gave rap, black music and lives a voice when no one else did. And to this day, the microphone is not getting chucked, as D fights the power to his last. And man, oh, man is he lasting in this waged war. Turn on your radio, away from the bulls### that Dead Prez told you about. In this hip-hop world that's only getting bigger, the Armageddon is almost over. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'What Rock Is', 'Black Don't Dead (Feat. DJ Too Tuff)', 'What Are We To You?'

Spin This: Public Enemy - 'Fear Of A Black Planet'.

REVIEW: XZIBIT - KINGMAKER

4/5

Kingsman

King back. In the same weekend that Snoop Dogg releases 'Iz It A Crime' to the court of public opinion on Death Row, and we get an album from another Public Enemy (Chuck D for your 'Radio Armageddon'), Xzibit is back too. Riding and pimping his discography with his first solo set since 2012's 'Napalm'. Although he did release a record with B-Real of Cypress Hill, along with Demrick and Serial Killers in 2020's 'Summer Of Sam'. It really does feel like you're playing 'Def Jam Vendetta' on your Gamecube or PSP right now with this 'Kingmaker' and that title-track will do more than take you back as this talent pays it forward on his ninth wonder of an album. Reuniting with Dr. Dre, like Snoop did on 'Missionary', with the Ty Dollar $ign assisted 'Leave Me Alone'. Bringing more of the west to the party with the Ice Cube and Lorine Chia highlight 'For The Love'.

Forget what he did to cars. This is an MTV generation, unsung legend who had bars. And here he records with fellow luminaries, rewriting their own legacies with comeback trails. Whether it be Busta Rhymes ('The Moment' with JasonMartin), or Redman (getting 'Higher', as if he could, with B-Real of Cypress "I'm staring in your direction, like 'The Simpsons'" Hill). On the blue, California sky of the Hollywood sign 'Kingmaker', Xzibit also has a supporting cast headlined by Dem Jointz ('Everywhere I Go'), Jenn Em (for the sequel 'Been A Long Time Pt. 2'), JasonMartin again on 'Belly Of The Beast', Stalone (not that one) for a 'Perfect Alibi', USA's Symba as 'American Idols', a 'Crash' of K.A.A.N. and Royce Da 5'9", Butch Cassidy and Compton Av telling you to 'Shut Yo Mouth', a 'Notified' Cold 187um and King T, Daygo Fatts and Guapdad 400 asking 'What U Like', and the 'End Of Day' with Ade Bekoe, Domo Genesis and Tre Capital.

On 2001's 'Man vs. Machine' with an operatic Dr. Dre of 'Symphony In X Major ("we the s###"), Xzibit released one of his deepest cuts. His 'Missin' U' dedication to his dear mama, featuring Andre Wilson. Now, he regards his own mortality in a music video for a single where he's wearing a black suit with matching shades, like the Man in Black, Johnny Cash. You remember in that Joaquin Phoenix 'Walk The Line' biopic, directed by James Mangold of Dylan's 'A Complete Unknown' (Boyd Holdbrook has a great Cash in, too), where they say to Johnny, "you look like you're going to a funeral", and he coolly responds, "maybe I am". Well, X to Z is, too. The one of Alvin Nathaniel Joiner. His own one. Well...not yet, we sure hope, but "I put together my suit of armor like Tony Stark's/I seen dynasties come together, but never start/N####s ain't with me right now 'cause they ain't had a heart/They get emotional, hold grudges, and fall apart/I am the Alpha, Omega, I am the Holy Grail (Damn)", off of 'Play This At My Funeral' is one hell of a delivered eulogy.

Strong singles like 'Everywhere I Go', 'Shut Yo Mouth' and 'Been A Long Time Pt 2' complete this decade plus comeback, but his legend has been here for years. This is just exhibit I. Or Xzibit, A+, with quite possibly his best album yet. Just listen to the concept of 'Success', his 'Genesis', 'History', or his warning that needs to be heeded that 'Earth Is Over'. The title track in closing will really put you on game as Joiner joins it all together and gives you that new car smell with some shine on the hood, and much more tinkering below. "Your money tight, feeling like you ain't living right/You lost sight of your goals and the spirit to fight/Can you humble your pride, ego, and sacrifice?/Need some motivation at life? Listen to Kingmaker." Pop your collar, this King of LA, like James' version, has just given you another makeover. And this one will have you looking like your best self as you drive off the lot. Hey now, no more mean muggin', you're an all-star again. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Playlist Picks: 'Play This At My Funeral', 'The Moment (Feat. Busta Rhymes & JasonMartin)', 'Success'.

Spin This: Xzibit - 'Man Vs. Machine'.