StereoVision's Artists to Watch 2022

January 31, 2022 by StereoVision Staff in Read

By StereoVision Staff

As in most other aspects of life, each January serves as a type of cleansing for the music industry where fans get to look back and appreciate how their favorite artists elevated the previous year and changed their lives for the better. Potentially the most fun aspect of a new year in music is the potential for new break-out stars to burst onto the scene and change how we think about music. With the majority of the industry’s big dogs dropping in summer and fall, the first half of the year always acts as an exciting battleground for budding artists where anything is possible and creative innovation is rewarding leading to some of the most important music of the year. Our team decide to celebrate this annual energy by compiling some of the rising artists we’re most excited to watch grow throughout 2022. Additionally, we put together a playlist with some of our favorite songs from each artist, check it out on Spotify and Apple Music here:

Without further ado, please enjoy StereoVision’s artists to watch in 2022:

Al-Doms

If you haven’t listened to Al Doms’ 2021 project “NEW DREAM”, then remove your head from the sand and listen to it right now. The Virginia rapper really had 2021 on his back for a minute - feeding fans with a healthy collection of bass-laden bangers with writing so good it will have you taking notes. Though he’s still a burgeoning artist, the momentum he’s picked up with that project + his “Mr. Perfect” freestyle has set him up to have an absolutely insane 2022. If the idea of Saba with a little southern flair perks your interest, then Al Doms needs to be on your radar this year. -Carter Fife

bigbabygucci

A prominent name in the underground rap scene for years, Charlotte rapper BIGBABYGUCCI is sure to make waves in 2022. From being sent to a group home in 8th grade, dropping out of college and multiple legal battles to now surpassing over 400,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, Gucci is proof that a troubled past does not define you. There’s no doubting Gucci’s work ethic; he dropped 3 projects in 8 months in 2021, and already has kicked off 2022 with a bang with his newest release, Iridesense. Gucci’s versatility is unmatched, from being able to float over spacey beats to thriving over complex, hard-hitting, synth-heavy instrumentals frequently from Mike Dean co-signed producer, Fish. Now, BIGBABYGUCCI is currently on his first major US tour, the Yokohama Tour, supporting MadeinTYO and UnoTheActivist. Expect more quality from BIGBABYGUCCI and his newly founded record label, Better Temperatures, in 2022! -Matt Herin

David Sabastian

A person who is doing a lot of jobs is very common to come by in the fast-paced world we currently live in. A person who is truly talented in many aspects is a lot rarer and deserves to be celebrated. David Sabastian falls into the latter category. He had one of the most slept-on albums of 2021 with features from Buddy, 070 Shake, Guapdad 4000, and a couple more household names. I kid you not that whenever a song comes up in my library I find myself having to play the whole album on loop before being able to move on with my day. He also apparently just released an audiobook under his own publishing company. Additionally, he is also the founder of the fire fashion brand Skidrow, which spreads awareness about those on Skid Row while simultaneously providing assistance. So he already has a solid footing within the world yet for some reason he is not considered mainstream. With two more projects coming out in 2022 if this man is not on your list you are tweaking. -CJ Allen

454

I sincerely do not think an artist's debut has ever impressed me like 454’s 2021 debut project 4 REAL, so in 2022 I know who I'm going to be watching closely. Rolling Stone called his music "cosmic", FADER called it "bliss", and now 454 even has the equally rare and well-deserved Frank Ocean cosign. Blending the best elements of pluggnb, hip-hop, and psychedelic, 454 is easily one of the most exciting new artists of the past year. With more music on the way soon, I can't wait for what he has in store in 2022. -Carter Fife

Navy Blue

Underground hip-hop and it's innovative talents are the lifeblood of the overarching genre. One of the brightest revelations originating from underground hip-hop in recent memory has to be the Brooklyn-based Sage Elsesser, better known under his rap alias Navy Blue. Elsesser's rap origins can be traced back to his team-up with the underground collective sLUms. The groups clear willingness to collaborate has connected them to avant-garde minds such as Earl Sweatshirt, Pink Siifu, MAVI, Standing On The Corner and of course Elsesser. Elsesser has used these connections to his advantage, appearing on several Earl songs such as "The Mint" and "GHOST." Navy Blue's unique sound combines vivid strokes of Earl's intricate flow and wordplay, experimental production akin to The Alchemist or Black Noi$e, and a decidedly unique honesty and personability. Navy had a busy 2021, releasing his latest LP "Navy's Reprise," executively producing underground rapper Wiki's standout record "Half God," and appearing on the standout Alchemist track "Nobles" with Earl. With only 149,000 monthly Spotify listeners, Navy is definitely an artist to keep track of heading in 2022. -Luke Modugno

Nippa

When is an artist can effortlessly move with the smoothness of a seasoned veteran on their first shit you know that they’re doing what they were born to do. This is absolutely the case with the London-based singer Nippa. I’ll never forget seeing the situation video for the first time while waiting to board a plane in LAX and the obsession it instantly instilled in me. Nippa carries the same cool mystic as a Brent Faiyaz while differentiating himself by making more frequent call back to a mid-2000s aesthetic. Everything from his crystal clear runs to his subtle yet prevalent London accent results in an obvious superstar in the making. -Spencer Lobdell

onlybino!

2022 will be a big year for Onlybino. This past year he gained our attention with “Butterfly Doors” and a feature on midwxst’s deluxe tape. Surrounded by a youthful circle including sgpwes, xhuloo0, and surge, he showcases his talents alongside the next wave of artists ready to break into the public eye. Now a part of the star-studded roster of Field Trip Records led by Zack Bia, he has the tools to become one of the biggest artists to come out of the underground scene. Bino covers such a diverse range of genres, it's difficult to categorize him into just one; his recent Youtube uploads feature hyperpop rap, drum, and bass, rnb, etc. This multi-genre ability gives him an advantage that will keep his sound fresh and unique. With a successful music video to “Butterfly Doors” produced by No Soap, led by Elan Bia, we hope to see more collaborations between the two in the future of Bino’s career. It looks like he’s on the right path coming into this year, and we can’t wait to see what Onlybino has in store for us in 2022! -Q Hollomand

2oopaid Tk

The bubbling hip-hop scene in Seattle is something all fans need to take note of and at the forefront of it all is 2oopaid Tk, a gifted artist with a knack for addicting melodies and a style like no other. Vocally, the Seattle spitter is gifted with a mesmerizing rasp that is reminiscent of Shordie Shordie but is paired with a high-energy delivery to truly make his music sound like no one else in the game. Tk has dropped solid projects in both of the past two years while also collaborating with lots of young artists in the new hip-hop hotbed that is Seattle Washington. 2oopaid has already built a faithful fandom in the 206 and with no signs of slowing down, 2022 looks to be the year that 2oopaid could see massive success. -Spencer Lobdell

Jany Green

Alright so I’m going to be honest, apparently Jany Green has been that guy for a minute now with his single “Little” from 2020 having an astounding 11 million streams on Spotify. He also has a song produced by Kenny Beats on his EP Lost In Love. However, I still believe he is underrated enough to be put on the lists of artists to watch. His aforementioned EP is an automatic vibe. It has the capability to put you in a fire mood to dance all your problems away no matter what went wrong with your day. I believe with my whole heart that he is one Tik Tok away from being sent into the superstar stratosphere. He is also from Alaska, which is normal yet obscure enough to add to his star-studded story. Everyone should be impatiently waiting to see what he has coming out this year. -CJ Allen

TaliHendrix

TaliHendrix is a very new rapper with only 13 tracks on his current SoundCloud. I found him off pure coincidence as I was listening to a Summrs station on SoundCloud. His biggest song, “league” came on and I was drawn in by the familiar beat tag and 808’s. the song happened to be produced by 30NICKK, one of the biggest underground producers right now, and frequent SlayWorld collaborator (artists who used to be in or associated with Slay include: KanKan, Summrs, Yeat, Autumn). After hearing “League” I was very impressed by his rapping ability and delivery on Nickk’s beat, as they can be tricky to find a flow and one’s own voice on. I am extremely interested to see what Tali can do in the future and I bet if he keeps going, he will be linking with big names in the underground rap game soon. -Drew Jenkins

Tony Shhnow

Tony Shhnow is set up to have a huge 2022. Coming out of last year releasing 7 mixtapes/albums and countless music videos, Tony shows us what kind of work ethic it takes to grow as an artist. Tony Shhnow is truly an artist who can get on any beat. He combines OG ATL rap with RnB, plugg, and soul music, making for a unique underground artist with none like him. He leads his peers when it comes to exploring new sounds and “going back in time” to older subgenres and reviving them with a new updated style. Tony Shhnow can REALLY RAP, and with a keen ear, you will be able to pick up bars that are relatable and thoughtful. The heavy use of samples gives a vintage vibe to his music that is refreshing when paired with his modern-day subject matter. With two music videos already released just 2 weeks into 2022, we can expect a lot of content and progression coming from Tony. We can’t wait to see and hear what he has in store for us! -Q Hollomand

Chris Patrick

Chris Patrick is a must-watch going into 2022. The artist, born and raised in New Jersey, shook up the music industry in 2020 with the release of his first studio album, From The Heart, Vol. 2. His versatility, heartfelt lyricism, and well-articulated emotions are reminiscent of a new-age J. Cole, which is not a commendation I would give to just anybody. He can out-rap your favorite rapper, then turn around and float on a slow, melodic track, leaving you questioning if Spotify just started playing some random radio. Since his bag is so deep, he keeps himself outside any box while simultaneously proving his unlimited potential. -Colson O’Connor

o2worldwide

Who do you really know making bops out of Oklahoma? You probably are unaware of anyone major. Hopefully in the coming year that is going to change as O2worldwide serves as your chance to see what the panhandle state has to offer. Due to a lack of words, the best way I can describe them is just INSANE. Since they are so fresh it can be a struggle to identify the members, but every time you find one, you are blessed with fresh and inspiring music. So far the singular artists I have been able to identify outside of the 3 albums dropped under O2worldwide are Casper Sage and the founder Ombachi. Both have an automatic and smooth flow. They have the same energy as OFWGKTA as an amazing group of people producing just as amazing music. I put my whole life on this when I say, THEY ARE GOING TO BE HUGE! -CJ Allen

yelizaveta (fka baphy)

This may be the deepest cut on the list, but sitting at 10 monthly listeners is one of my favorite artists of 2021, Yelizaveta. With only a handful of tracks released (and only one on DSPs), this is probably a little bit of an early pick - but when you find good music, you share it right? “Ricarda” is a perfect synthesis of ethereal electronic experimentation and pop perfection, and Yelizaveta’s vocals are so hypnotic you’ll probably add this to every playlist in your roster. With more music lined up for 2022, this may be your last chance to claim your “early fan” award. -Carter Fife

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Thanks for making the last six years a little easier 💎

StereoVision's Favorite Albums of 2021

January 02, 2022 by StereoVision Staff in Read

By StereoVision Staff

Although 2021 seriously left something to be desired, the music that was released this year did not. Our favorite musicians put us in their backpacks and create worlds for us to live in while disease, hate, and ignorance plagued ours. From some of the most celebrated artists of our generation dropping new albums (Tyler, the Creator, Kanye West, Drake) to exciting newcomers making a serious claim for the throne (Baby Keem, Don Toliver, Yeat), 2021 was jam-packed with exciting releases and excellent music. Without further ado, the StereoVision team is proud to present out top 30 albums of 2021:

30. *Mercurial World* by Magdalena Bay

I’ll be real with you - I love weird shit that isn’t afraid to build worlds, push music forward, and most importantly, take risks. Luckily, Magdalena Bay was able to check all of those boxes with their debut album *Mercurial World* - an album equally concerned with existential terror, time, space, and crafting insanely-detailed indie-pop anthems for our enjoyment. It would be impossible to boil down everything I love about this record in the few sentences allotted to me, but this album truly is a modern pop masterpiece that somehow balances a careful love for pop’s past, present, and future. Take tracks like “Hysterical Us”, “Dawning Of The Season” or “Secrets (Your Fire)” - do those songs not sound like they were written in the year 3000? Whether or not you have a strong affinity for pop music, Magdalena Bay’s *Mercurial World* stands alone amongst the pile of new releases we got this year. -*Carter Fife*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Hysterical Us, Secrets (Your Fire), & Prophecy

29. *Navy’s Reprise* by Navy Blue

The budding voice of the underground, Navy Blue’s consistent output of refreshingly personal raps over avant-garde production continues with *Navy’s Reprise*. Behind the boards or using his pen, Navy puts his oozing talent on full display here. Quickly becoming one of the most talented acts in rap music, Navy Blue is a name to remember going into 2022. -*Luke Modugno*
**Favorite Tracks:**
My Whole Life, Not a Lot to Fear, & Suite 11

28. *Do it for demon* by sahbabii

For an artist who prefers to stay out of the spotlight, the release of this album reminded us of his talents, and put him at the center of attention once again. Sahbabii perfected his sound on this album, giving us a new version of himself while also sticking to his roots that are reminiscent of his 2018 tape, *Squidtastic*. Songs like “Dickalasionship” and “Crosswalk” were flooded with lines that made me laugh at how unexpected yet hard they were at the same time. It’s moments like these that make a project memorable and shareable with friends; Sahbabii kept an upbeat and hopeful vibe throughout the project, celebrating the life of his late childhood friend, ‘Demon Child’, for whom the album is dedicated to. This pleasant listen is light on the ears and is easy for you to zone out to, just appreciating the melodies and ambient vocals. -*Q Hollomand*
**Favorite Tracks:**
I see, Crosswalkk & Bread Head

27. *1 Night I Took Acid* by Bigbabygucci

BigBabyGucci truly used his 2021 release to evolve from SoundCloud rapper to overall musician and mogul and the experienced ear can tell by simply listening. There is so much to say about this artist and this album. For those unaware, BigBabyGucci is tearing up the underground with his barrage of albums and versatility on different beats. On this album, Gucci takes a step back from the grunge, dark beats he had on his previous tape *Assume the Worst* and makes this one much livelier and inviting. He incorporates dancehall beats and makes his music more personal with song intros and a banger with Coldhart. All in all, be on the lookout for Gucci, he is only getting started. *-Drew Jenkins*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Hotel California, Tuesday, & Before Us

26. *Cinema* by The Marias

*Cinema* is the long-awaited debut record from LA-based indie rock group The Marías, a record that seamlessly pulls influences from indie rock to ethereal pop, classical, and latin music. Tracks like “Hush” and “Calling U Back” are hard-hitting and perfectly-polished bangers that somehow fit on virtually every playlist, and tracks like “Spin Me Around” will make you feel like you’re literally floating above your body. Their sound is hypnotic, and whether they’re delivering you a seductive and downtempo bilingual groove like “Little by Little”, or a transcendental wall of dream-like sound on “All I Really Want Is You”, every second is a perfectly polished moment from one of LA’s most promising acts. -*Carter Fife*
**Favorite Tracks:**
All I Really Want Is You, Calling U Back, & Little By Little

25. *Van goghs left ear* by zelooperz

Though it might be shallow if you are looking for an album to bump while cruising and want heads to turn immediately, Zelooperz has blessed you. Each track has an insane beat that matches a voice that could only come from Detroit. Crash bandicoot samples to ones that will make you research a blind opera singer Zelooperz brought the range to this album. He even took advantage of his vocal prowess by singing which only added another layer of complexity. *-CJ Allen*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Bash Bandicoon, Essential Worker, & Don’t Leave

24. *Still Over It* by Summer Walker

The energy that Summer Walker carried into her second studio album was undeniably that of a star. Her debut album *Over It* established her as a force in the industry, and she took it a step farther on *Still Over It.* There are moments where this project feels straight out of the early 2000’s in the best way possible, but it is backed by a very modern bounce. She never shies away from her experiences, positive or negative, and makes it all sound incredible. The lyrics are cutthroat and empowering at the same time. On a track like “No Love”, she and SZA make it apparent just how quickly they will cut off all emotional contact once they feel mistreated. Songs like this don't feel like heartbreak anthems, but rather they feel like the product of putting yourself first and understanding personal needs. Summer has one of the best voices in the industry, and she is able to float over slow sexy ballads like “Unloyal '' with Ari Lennox as well as bouncy club records like “Dat Right There” with Pharell. With *Still Over It,* she sent a very clear message to the next man that tries to play with her. -*Miles Hagan*
**Favorite Tracks:**
No Love, Switch A N***a Out, & Toxic

23. *sixtape 2* by blxst & bino rideaux

At this point, there’s no denying that Blxst and Bino Rideaux are the West coast’s most dangerous duo. With one joint project under their belt (2019’s Sixtape) and a handful of excellent tracks, the LA duo was already aiming for the afro-mentioned title before solidifying their claim with *Sixtape 2*, the infectious 12-track project that was the undisputed soundtrack of the summer in Los Angeles. The project is as bouncy as it gets and Blxst’s ear-worm melodies perfectly complement Bino’s mesmerizing flow. On songs like “One of Them Ones” the duo is able to inspire and communicate confidence in a similar way to that of their mentor Nipsey Hussle well making that confidence as accessible as ever. Songs like “Program” and “Stressful” are obvious standouts in both artists’ discography due to an absurd amount of replayability. All-in-all, Blxst and Bino did it again and crafted one of the most fun projects of the year. -*Spencer Lobdell*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Program, One of Them Ones, Stressful

22. *Right Now* by willie Jones

If there is one album you must listen to that may be outside of your usual music taste, it has to be this one. Willie Jones killed his album debut and personally ignited a flame in me that is now constantly searching for the next country star. Even though the album involves a mixture of many styles, that will allow even the most intense country hater a chance to enjoy it. There is no doubt that this is a unique country album. It will be evident once Willie’s baritone voice transports you to the backroads of some wheat field. *-CJ Allen*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Down for it, Trainwreck, & Back Porch

21. *epiphany* by ka$hdami

*epiphany*: the epitome of a plugg album. This 17-song album truly brought plugg music to a broader audience, making Dami one of the first artists in a while to have more mainstream success in this subgenre of rap. The progressive production, paired with a direct vocal delivery by Dami makes for a euphoric listen; each song having its own ear candy that makes you go back for another song. This album solidified Ka$hdami as a staple in the underground youth culture. His rise this year is linked to countless songs going viral on Tik Tok, but in a cool way, avoiding his songs being ‘ruined’ by the app’s abilities to sometimes do so. Features from SSGKobe, BabySantana, Riovaz, and more do not disappoint, making this album a star-studded collection that unites the underground scene. -*Q Hollomand*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Reparations, Wake Up, & Receipts

20. *to hell with it* by pinkpantheress

Pinkpantheress shows out on her first album. In an online age where everyone has heard almost everything, pinkpantheress homage to an expired British music scene and homey sounding garage beats stands out from the overall mainstream crowd. The sound feels familiar but not repetitive. Pinkpantheress’ lyrics are also a vital part of her sound; songs centered around love, emotions, slight existential crises’, and mental health hit a soft spot for today’s generation. pinkpantheress is this generations artist, and tiktok was only her vessel. I see many good things to come from this artist, and I hope they keep pushing forward with whatever sound they find. *-Drew Jenkins*
**Favorite Tracks:**
nineteen, passion, & break it off

19. *This Thing of Ours Vol. 1 & 2* by the alchemist

Very few artists have reached the legendary status that Alchemist has obtained in his career. He is a testament to consistency and always cultivating new relationships in the industry. His genius on *This Thing of Ours* is in his subtlety. These are not concept albums yet they feel undeniably cohesive. The album feels like we are listening to old vinyls we didn't know we had, in a dusty attic, and having the time of our lives for about 30 minutes. From Earl Sweatshirt, to MAVI, to Zeloopeerz, everyone shines and sounds perfectly at home. While there is no consistent subject matter from song to song, there are no wasted bars from anyone, and that intentionality keeps the listener focused. On a project where every song is a moment we are left asking, “How did Al do it again?” -*Miles Hagan*
**Favorite Tracks:**
TV Dinners, Loose Change, 6 Five Heartbeats

18. *USEE4YOURSELF* by idk

There are many words that you can use to describe IDK, but luckily radio-silent is not one of them. Having released a project every year we’ve known him, few hip-hop artists have developed their style and sound as quickly as IDK. *USEE4YOURSELF* is a reflection of this, because it doesn’t just feel like a yearly release at this point. A conceptual album tracing IDK’s troubled relationship with love and traditional masculinity to his childhood, *USEE4YOURSELF* is a heartfelt and vulnerable meditation on intimacy and self-reflection. Aurally, the album is packed to the brim with bangers, and with Mike Dean helming most of the production, perhaps hip-hop has it’s newest dynamic duo. Tracks like “Pradadabang” with Young Thug and “Peloton” are decorated with forward-thinking mixes and writing that effortlessly moves IDK into a lane of his own. It’s hard to summarize this record in a few sentences, but take it from me - *USEE4YOURSELF* is one of the strongest releases this year, and I’ll be anxiously awaiting what IDK does next. -*Carter Fife*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Puerto Rico, Pradadabang, & Shoot My Shot

17. *BO JACKSON* BY BOLDY JAMES AND THE ALCHEMIST

Hip-hop has always been about collaboration, and nothing elevates the genre quite like when a producer and emcee have undeniable chemistry. Detroit's own Boldy James and the legendary Alchemist linked up once again this year for a follow-up to their 2020 masterpiece *The Price of Tea in China*, with *Bo Jackson*. This time around, the duo brought a seriously upgraded guest list, including Freddie Gibbs, Earl Sweatshirt, Benny The Butcher, Roc Marciano, and Curren$y. A pairing of artists who just can't quite seem to miss, Bo Jackson was one of the best projects hip-hop's underground scene had to offer in 2021. -*Luke Modugno*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Brickmile to Montana, Fake Flowers, & Turpentine

16. *Sometimes I might be introvert* by Little Simz

Meaningful introspection is something that can be a confusingly-difficult learned skill for artists. This is not the case for the UK’s rising rap star Little Simz and her fourth studio album. Production and unmitigated honesty are the strong points here, as Simz contemplates her journey of self-discovery under the limelight. -*Luke Modugno*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Miss Understood, Two Worlds Apart, & Woman

15. *WEIGHT OF THE WORLD* BY MAXO KREAM

When you have Tyler the Creator, A$AP Rocky, Freddie Gibbs, and more well-known heavy hitters on a project and don’t lose your own spotlight, you know you’ve made something special. Maxo Kream has been a prominent artist, but this album felt different. Once you have heard the song that tells the story of his brother a new tone is added to the album. Maxo was even able to make a bop about the words he’s been hearing from his haters. Talented storytelling and an overall level of wittiness helped create a masterpiece. *-CJ Allen*
**Favorite Tracks:**
They Say, Trips, & Believe

14. *TWOFR 2*

Although Kalan.FrFr has been a familiar name in Los Angeles since 2018, the Roc Nation artist really established himself as one of the most exciting rising artists on the West Coast with the spring release of *TwoFr 2.* The 13-track project was so exciting to music fans everywhere because it’s got a little bit of everything. From undeniable bangers (“Look at Me” & “Scorin”) to emotional cuts (“Never Lose You” & “Run Away”), on *TwoFr 2* Kalan asserted himself as a versatile artist that is excited to push the boundaries of LA hip-hop and innovate at every turn. -*Spencer Lobdell*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Look At Me, Big Dog, Never Lose You

13. *THE LIFE OF PI’ERRE 5 BY PI’ERRE BOURNE*

Pi’erre did nothing but deliver on his 5th edition of the TLOP series, this one being the standout amongst the five. What made this album such a relief was Pi’erre’s choice to include fan-favorite leaks; songs like ‘Switchin’ Lanes’ ft. Playboi Carti and ‘Drunk and Nasty’ ft. Sharc made the final cut. The signature Pi’erre production on every beat and his nonchalant, but catchy vocals create a mind-numbing effect on the listener. Every song transitions into the next one, making each listen feel like a new experience(I think that “Groceries” into “Butterfly” is the best transition). Pi’erre is finally getting the recognition he deserves as a vocalist as he continues to display his simple, yet intricate production. -*Q Hollomand*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Butterfly, YNS, & Drunk and Nasty

12. *CERTIFIED LOVER BOY* BY DRAKE

From the moment Drake shaved a heart in his hair the music world was waiting for *Certified Lover Boy*. After some leaked versions, clothing line drops, and renting out Dodger Stadium for a date night, debatably the biggest rapper in the world dropped his latest project. Drake sounds as hungry as ever on “Knife Talk '' and “No Friends in the Industry ''. These tracks are high energy and filled with high hats, and the latter provided us with one of the best 21 Savage features of the year. Then, two songs later, we get “Pipe Down” and “Get Along Better”, over lush production and with lyrics that undeniably live up to the persona he has created. All of this while still giving us an epic intro and heartfelt outro, one-liners that will be captions for years to come, and everything else we have come to expect from The Boy. Drake and 40 were able to curate an amazing list of guest features and some of the most influential producers in hip-hop. While it was going to be nearly impossible for the album to live up to the hype that was built for it before release, *Certified Lover Boy* was still able to capture some of the best moments of the year. -*Miles Hagan*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Papi’s Home, Fair Trade, Pipe Down

11. *UNTOURABLE ALBUM* BY MEN I TRUST

Released amidst a global pandemic, the aptly-titled *Untourable Album* is the newest release from the dream-pop powerhouse Men I Trust. Though the world has turned upside down since their last project *Oncle Jazz* dropped in 2019, Men I Trust put their best foot forward by returning with a fairly-sized collection of new tracks. Seamlessly blending elements of dream-pop with jazz and indie rock, *Untourable Album* is the perfect album to get lost in when you need a break from 2021’s chaos. From the record’s delectable downtempo basslines to Emmanuelle Proulx’s dulcet vocals, this year Men I Trust came through with an album that sounds like they never left. -*Carter Fife*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Tree Among Shrubs, Sugar, & Oh Dove

10. *UP 2 ME* BY YEat

Yeat’s parade truly is a marvel to behold on *Up 2 Më*. Yeat starts to perfect the gloomy and eerie sound he is going for (like on '“Swërved It”) and begins to experiment with his sound on the last two tracks of the album. Yeat shows continual progression and adaption to an ever-expanding rage music scene along with him beginning to compete with his previous self. Yeat notoriously limits his features to friends and confidants, and on this tape, he only has a feature with his label partner and good friend Septmebersrich. This ability to control a song without having multiple voices or people truly goes to show how groundbreaking Yeat is for not just the underground but hip-hop in general. The way he goes about distorting his voice, and how he is getting more into the production side of his music, we will be seeing a lot greater things from this young artist. *-Drew Jenkins*
**Favorite Tracks:**
morning mudd, money so big, & told ya

9. *MICHIGAN BOAT BOY* BY LIL YACHTY

Lil Yachty's Michigan boy boat mixtape was his only tape in the year 2021. With this, he shows his versatility and genuine connections in hip-hop by creating a mixtape that attempts to encapsulate the niche underground Detroit/Flint rap music scene. This mixtape was a surprise to many avid hip-hop listeners, Lil Boat and Detroit music fans alike. This was not a total commercial stunt as Yachty has had multiple songs with Tee Grizzley and Sada Baby in his past years of being a mainstream rapper. The scene, rampant with notorious Hitmakers like a BabyTron, Rio da Young OG, and the previously mentioned Sada Baby en-captures a grimy but flavorful stab at what it looks like to be a lyrical rapper in today’s hip-hop. Historically, his music is quite contradictory to a Michigan style of rap, which made fans skeptical but also hungrily await what the MC was cooking up. *-Drew Jenkins*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Never Did Coke, Final Form, & Concrete Goonies

8. *VINCE STAPLES* BY VINCE STAPLES

It is fitting that his self-titled album is his most personal. Vince Staples is one of the most complex figures that music has to offer. While he is loved by the masses for his slick comedic timing and unrelenting honesty, there are parts of himself and his life that he clearly keeps away from the public eye. He slightly pulls the curtain back on this album, but in the most Vince way possible. He paints pictures with his lyrics and the tone is perfectly set from the opening track “ARE YOU WITH THAT”, where he is honest about how he moves and the things he comes from, but makes it very clear that this life is not for everyone. There is not a bad song on this album. The entire tape is produced by Kenny Beats and he shows his full range. Vince has never rapped over a stripped-back beat like “TAKE ME HOME”, but he sounds like a match made in heaven next to the beautiful singing of Foushee. If you still want to question if he’s really about that life, there are also songs like “LIL FADE” and “MHM” to reassure you. -*Miles Hagan*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Law of Averages, Sundown Town, Taking Trips

7. *AN EVENING WITH SILK SONIC* BY Silk Sonic

Since the announcement of this collaborative tape, we knew exactly what we were going to get: a masterpiece, plain and simple. Paak and Bruno complement each other incredibly well, with Paak shining lyrically and Bruno crafting hooks that get stuck in your head like gorilla glue. After listening to a track like “Smokin Out the Window,” there’s really only one valid conclusion a listener can come to: Silk Sonic is a duo sent to us by the music gods. -*Luke Modugno*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Smokin Out The Window, Fly As Me, 777

6. *LIFE OF A DON* BY DON TOLIVER

There’s no feeling as gratifying as seeing someone reach their true potential. From the first time I pressed play on Don’s 2018 mixtape *Donny Womack* it was obvious that the Texas artist could be incredible but after an underwhelming follow-up project (*Heaven or Hell)* I was unsure what the future held for the Cactus Jack artist. I’m so happy to say that with the release of *Life of a Don* this year, Don Toliver has finally become the artist I always knew he could be. From top to bottom, the 16-track album is packed with biting flows, a psychedelic aesthetic, undeniable range, and everything fans love about Don. In my opinion, no album had better beat selection than *Life of a Don* in 2021, and when you combine that with Don’s killer vocals and a feature list containing Baby Keem, Travis Scott, SoFaygo, and Kali Uchis, it’s clear to see why this is one of the best albums of the year. Well I don’t think that *Life of a Don* was the best album of 2021, I do think it was the album I pressed play on the most this year (and it’s not close). -*Spencer Lobdell*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Swangin’ on Westheimer, OUTERSPACE, Flocky Flocky

5. *THE MELODIC BLUE* BY BABY KEEM

From dropping one of the best albums of the year, to being featured on Kanye West’s *Donda*, to being brought out by Kendrick Lamar at Day N Vegas, Baby Keem made a serious claim for 2021’s MVP, an absurd feat at only 21 years old. The epitome of his explosive year was undoubtedly the release of *The Melodic Blue,* a project that was released in the same two-week period as *Certified Lover Boy* and *Donda* but still managed to command the moment. *The Melodic Blue* is undoubtedly this year’s most exciting body of work as Keem experimented with sounds throughout the whole album, taking necessary risks and delivering fans music that sounded like nothing they’d ever heard. Songs like “Family Ties” and “Vent” showcased Keem’s innate ability to make a crowd lose their mind whereas slower tracks like “16” and “Lost Souls” exemplified Keem’s ability to craft beautiful, genre-bending pieces of art. Nothing sounded like *The Melodic Blue* in 2021 and it absolutely deserves to be sitting with the big dogs in our top 5. -*Spencer Lobdell*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Scapegoats, Trademark USA, & 16

4. *THE HOUSE IS BURNING* BY ISAIAH RASHAD

“What am I supposed to do outside but get rich”. It is almost arrogant that despite Rashad being reluctant to embrace the spotlight his talent demands, he is aware that the second he does step outside it's over with. These are the first words Isaiah Rashad utters on *The House is Burning.* He may be the most self-aware figure we have in music, and may even argue that it is to a fault at times. That is what makes this one of the best albums of the year. Before its release, he went on a press run and spoke to multiple publications about his struggles with alcoholism and drug abuse, which landed him in rehab before he could release this project. All of this comes through on *The House is Burning.* This album is honest, vulnerable, and a celebration of taking life and the healing process a day at a time. This all culminated in some of the rawest music of the year. -*Miles Hagan*
**Favorite Tracks:**
RIP Young, Headshots (4r Da Locals), HB2U

3. *WHOLE LOTTA RED* BY PLAYBOI CARTI

It is with no doubt that I say that this album has changed the sound and aesthetic of rap more than any other album has. With countless false release dates, anxious fans, and entire album versions leaking to the internet, Carti finally brings us an already classic album that has ushered in a new era of hip-hop. Dropping on Christmas of 2020, its life in 2021 started out rocky, with the rap community split on the controversy of his new ‘vamp’ style and punk-themed music. Now, a year later, the album still feels as fresh and new as ever, with the majority of people now in positive favor of WLR. The standout production of F1lthy and Art Dealer bridges the gap between rock and hip-hop; the sharp synths and aggressive drums bring a new addicting sound to the genre. Whole Lotta Red’s influence on pop culture will continue to play out over the next few years, solidifying it as 2021’s best album. -*Q Hollomand*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Stop Breathing, Control, & Over

2. *CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST* BY TYLER, THE CREATOR

Which genius concept would you rather see fleshed out by one of our generation's best: an album all about traveling the world released during a global pandemic, or a heartbreaking yet morally-confusing story about being involved in a passionate love triangle? How about both, but we disguise it in a DJ Drama-produced Gangsta Grillz mixtape to give every level of fan a different theme to latch onto? This is exactly what Tyler, the Creator did with his sixth studio album *Call Me if you Get Lost*, a project that is undoubtedly my album of the year and honestly probably the best album I’ve heard since Mac Miller dropped *Swimming* in 2018. Despite being on repeat for the entire year, the album continued to take on new meaning as 2021 progressed and although I’m sure I’ve spun the record over 100 times this year, something tells me that this album still has more to teach me about myself and the world around me. -*Spencer Lobdell*
**Favorite Tracks:**
Sweet / I Thought You Wanted to Dance, Safari, Massa

1. *DONDA* BY KANYE WEST

Albums that possess the ability to command the attention of pop culture are truly legendary. Whenever Kanye West has new music to share, of course we are willing to lend an ear, but this time was decidedly different. With an album rollout that completely defined social media dialogue for months, *Donda's* musical content matched the unparalleled hype generated by its marketing strategy. Concretely pivoting from the religiously-centered *JESUS IS KING*, Ye takes center stage as he struggles with the absence of his mother, divorce, and passing of close friends. With a whopping 32 songs over 2 hours, Ye makes yet another solid entry to his already stacked catalog of classic records. -*Luke Modugno*
**Favorite Tracks:**
24, Believe What I Say, & Come to Life

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“Faces” a Head First Dive Into the Deep End of Mac Miller’s Creative, Splitting Mind

October 25, 2021 by Guest User in Read

By Luke Modugno

Sometimes, the necessary elements required for a noteworthy album go far beyond musicality. The headspace, circumstances, and career trajectory of an artist often define chunks of time for artists. Oftentimes, these hard-to-reach creative pockets provide the foundations for a career-defining moment.

This is the case with the creation of the late Mac Miller’s stellar 2014 mixtape Faces, which was added to streaming services on Friday.

“It was just freedom,” said lead sound engineer Josh Berg in “Making Faces (A Short Film).” “He’d just wanted to make music and the schedule was so jammed up for the previous year. Did a whole US tour for three months, festivals tours for a month, a two-month tour across Europe with Lil Wayne, playing arenas, literally doing shows at every moment. And then, there was nothing, no shows, no anything, just studio.”

After bursting onto the early 2010’s rap scene, Miller had garnered immediate success due to the infectiously carefree nature of his work. Affectionately referred to by many as the poster child of frat rap, Mac’s debut projects Blue Side Park and K.I.D.S afforded the Pittsburgh native a healthy, potent dose of fame.

Prior to the release of 2012’s Macadelic, Miller moved to Los Angeles. As just a 20-year-old living on his own, the immensity of life under the spotlight paved the way for the creation of something new for Miller.

“It felt like it was my own world. I felt like I could really grow into my own creatively,” Miller said in the short film. “It felt like I could find myself through the music I was making.”

In a discography littered with stunning musicality, the project that best portrays Mac’s personality, artistry, and sonic evolution has to be Faces.

As the elegant saxophone and trippy drums cut in on the grandiose opener “Inside Outside,” and with lines like “All my homies philosophers,” and “On the inside, I’m outside all the time,” Miller establishes a motif that presents itself through a variety of artistic decisions throughout the album: psychedelia. From the production and lyrical content to the cover art, something about Miller dabbling in hallucinatory rap simply fits his artistic aurora. However, this creative direction was triggered by more than just music.

“To have all that space was a pro and a con,” said Miller in an interview with FADER Magazine. "It started with me sitting inside all day. Then I’d get bored, and I’d say to myself ‘Well I can just be high and have a whole adventure right here in this room.’’’

It’s an issue that comes to a head on the elegantly dark “Funeral.”

“Doing drugs is just a war with boredom but they sure to get me/I heard that legends never die, oh this lonely hell of mine,” harmonizes Miller over the track's kaleidoscopic production.

“Funeral” represents the end of a trilogy of songs in the middle of “Faces” meant to represent the three most significant days of a man’s life: the day he’s born (track 10 is titled “Happy Birthday”), the day he gets married (track 11 titled “Wedding”) and the day he dies. With “Funeral,” Mac comes to the revelation that every second he lives could be his last. This recognition of fragility is amplified by the fact that at this point, Miller had already developed a crippling drug addiction that saw him have plenty of close encounters with death. “Funeral” and the trilogy it belongs to is a monumental step forward for Mac in terms of his development into one of the most skilled confessionary songwriters in hip hop.

Another strong suit of “Faces” is its considerably strong guest list. As Miller and Berg describe in the short film, Mac’s home studio acted as a collaboratory.

“I think one of the coolest things about being down there was that different people would always come through,” Berg said as images of Earl Sweatshirt, Vince Staples, ScHoolboy Q, Thundercat, and more collaborators flashed across the screen. “He was eager to learn from others, eager to make people feel comfortable and welcome.”

Tracks like “New Faces v2,” featuring Earl Sweatshirt and Da$h exemplify exactly how integral collaboration was in Miller’s artistic process. Earl delivers what easily could be argued as one of his most impressive verses, while Da$h puts in a solid feature. The exceptional performances by both feature artists had to have compelled Miller to perform at his peak on this track, as that’s exactly what he did. Delivering thought-provoking, yet unfortunate bars like “All my life I’ve been afraid of powder, all my life I’ve been afraid of power, where did all that go,” Miller’s verse is a microcosm of everything Faces does well.

“Faces” was a springboard of an album for Miller. Going on to create classic records like GO:OD AM, Swimming, and Circles following its release, Faces afforded Mac the artistic confidence necessary to fully realize his untapped potential as a boundary-pushing artist. Ultimately, Faces is a mixtape that pushed Mac’s artistry forward in so many ways while staying true to himself. Rest in peace Mac.

“That’s like Mac’s personality,” Berg said. “That’s what Faces is, that’s the most Malcolm album you’ll get.”

Favorite tracks:

Funeral

Friends (feat. ScHoolboy Q)

Rain (feat. Vince Staples)

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