cravinggoodmusic

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 3: Harry Styles - Fine Line

Recommendation by Me 

If you read my Niall Horan Album review you would be aware that I have this undying love for the members of One Direction. Anything they do I just adore - not because I am fully biased but I just appreciate and respect how hard they have to work to remove themselves from that Boy Band persona and reinvent their own sound! This post is gonna be long so i would get popcorn ready yo!

When this album dropped, I thought it couldn't get better than his debut…. But good golly I was wrong! I heard this album be described as Fleetwood Mac's Rumours but on psychedelic drugs… and to some degree I love that description! From start to finish I was swept away on a musical journey where I felt excited and nervous! This album just proved how he sends emotions right to your very core. What I think is a show of his writing ability is that these songs and this album can be interpreted and felt in a different emotion.

Firstly, I want to talk about the whole musical vibe,70s rock prominent core but he manages to touch on different elements that makes his own this niche  There is this freedom you hear in his voice from start to finish - it is this new found confidence in him and he sings with power and joyful. Secondly, it is not a breakup album which I appreciate. Thirdly, sexuality is explored so much through this album! Fourthly, he pushes vulnerabilities and pushes his voice capabilities soooo much!

It is hard to actually pick one song and it is a lot of pressure to only talk about a few, so I will just talk about them all....

Golden is a banger hit! This is the best opener! Zane Lowe interview is a great interview to watch that describes this song… being vulnerable and open and supporting people so much no matter what. Watermelon Sugar - this is one of the most stunningly complex and delicate songs I have ever heard… this incredible layering and vocal arrangements are heart stoppingly great, there is so much talent in things but not obvious! At first I liked it, but wasn’t gobsmacked - then I listened to the stripped down, acapella version… holy fuck… that last half is an absolute moment. These diverse riffs and notes he is capable of hitting and then mixed with electronic mix, is a combination I adore! ALSO THE MUSIC VIDEO OMG.

Treat People With Kindness. What a banger…  as you would expect with a title like this, it is just a positive jazzy song! It's a song that needs to be played loud! She . that high bed note is body tingling stuff… the guitar component in this song is on another level. This electric guitar is a work of art. Bluesy bass interweaved together wow. I just can't comprehend how beautifully sculpted that song is instrumentally vise. Most songs throughout the album have that ….. The imagery in this song and his ex talking in french at the end is just a nice personal touch… wow!

Sunflower Vol. 6 is a song that manages to capture sunshine in music form. Those coos, the dos, the bas! They are the quirky sprinkles through the album where you can tell he is having as much fun as possible. You cannot be unhappy listening to this song. Cherry is the song that I think touched my heart the most… when the song progresses and the tension is building… His voice portrays that emotion - sadness and tiredness, the one where you feel like pressure is building you're reaching rock bottom - losing someone to someone else and that reminisces! The endings in this song he is creating are awesome and randomly work as well. Canyon moon is a song you can tell he had so much fun making. What I love most is the vocal layering! He pushes his voice to notes that I haven't heard his voice reach! 

Lights Up, loved loved loved music video for this and how it was his first single! Come out with a bang with a statement worthy, truthful and indie moment! His harmonious harmonies and choir elements are all about free and being happy with being you!  Falling is an absolute ballad! It's toned back and simple and raw. It's like a love story that is delicate and recites meaningful memories. Again, this music video is simple yet holy shit is one of the most artistic and emotive music videos I have seen in ages. 

Fine line, was the perfect song to name the album after. This was my fave song on the whole album at first listen so i over played it… still love it but other songs have been beating it. The whimsical components of his voice are stunning and the back up vocals and layered echos emphasise his attention to details. Then those horns come in, which lifts it to another level! Especially being the last song on the album… It's a perfect finisher. PSA: listen to the whole song and those magical last couple of sections with those high pitched notes.

Adore you, is absolutely adorable. This song on a tiny desk is what made me love it more! It is jazzy and upbeat, and he mentioned in an interview that it is finding that absolute bliss with someone. And it is like that.. You Are happy and you are in so much love and life is content! It is a skill to capture so much emotion in one song! To Be So Lonely is one of my tops on this album! Absolutely 11/10! No words to explain how good it is! 

Album artwork. Big Yes from me! His outfit is high fashion and breaks those gender stereotypes. The angle and pose is so fluid and colour combo is perrrrrfect!  I have a love hate relationship with that hand though... I sometimes  do wish the photographers hand wasn’t there but sometimes I adore it as it adds to the artistic expression.

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 4: Kanye West - The College Dropout

Recommendation by Blake. 

It is undeniably clear that Kanye is an incredible producer and knows his shit about pushing those boundaries in music! This album is a beautiful mix of classic soul, and bouncing beats. It has that classic Kanye sound as when it was released it was so astounding and groundbreaking, and I think it is a testament that it keeps being referred back to! I think because the album was completely ambitious and as it was his debut really made people notice!

There are these sly elements of humor throughout and also controversial lyrics (what a surprise). The ibe is that soulful, gospel, drum rich pop that is a perfect mixture. For me, I like it when artists stay true to themselves and also show that vulnerable side. As this was his debut album, it gave him this opportunity to showcase his “mad skills” to people who didn't know his name - and it proves that he is one of the all time best hip hop artists!

Recently I discovered that Kanye uses this symbol of college as a symbol for disillusionment with society (deep I know). There are so many layers to this album, as it focuses on substances, society commentary, humanism, christianity, racism, witty dark humor, and his anger which stems from inner struggles! Honestly if you really really listen, this shit is deep!

Top songs include: ‘We Don't Care’ is just a song that naturally gravitates to me! It is childlike and witty! It is extremely simple but as the first proper “song” off the album (excluding that interlude shit) it is quirky and fun - so many biggie smalls vibes and tonal elements which gives it that old school hip hop feel!‘Spaceship’ is this song that annoys me if I listen to it too much every once and awhile. I adore this song. I like how he starts off soft and then gets more gritty and harsh, but the “oooohs” add this whimsical notion. ‘Get Em High’ is a song which reminds me of da clubs when I just turned 18 - those memories just come running back when this song comes on. The disco pinion beat with that shaker sound is a vibbbbe! On the softer, more vulnerable side of Kanye is the song ‘Family Business’. Listening to this song puts things in perspective. Almost as if he is recalling his life story! It is just a nice song!

I still don’t get this album artwork - like why a teddy bear? Its random af.

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 4: Ben Platt - Sing To Me Instead

Recommendation by Janeo. 

Haha, so I was lowkey excited to get this album mainly because I am a sucker for Broadway and I think Ben Platt is one of the most INCREDIBLE singers and it is a goal of mine to see him in a show one day! Imagine the goosebumps you would get when he hits those notes!

This album is a mix of broadway and mainstream music! These songs are absolutely like chapters recalling a story! He has such a powerful voice and paired alongside these songs on the album which are so intimate and so vulnerable is just outstanding. I mean the production is nothing new and he uses the classic formula of a broadway song where he remains all soft and then the volume increases as a sense of frustration! 

As these songs are based on relationships - both romantic and platonic! I love how when you are listening to each song you can imagine someone or a certain situation where the words he is singing speaks to parts of your soul.

Favourite tracks on this album are hard to choose because they all evoke a different emotion. ‘Temporary Love’ is a song which just sounds like he is pleading and for someone not to break him. Love is an emotion that overwhelms your entire being and when it is good it feels like nothing can feel better - but when that love breaks it feels like a part of you is destroyed. What I love most about this song is his ability to tell that story of not wanting to hurt again - being all in! 

‘Better’ isn't the best song ever but I love and I just relate to these lyrics - anyone who has gone through a painful breakup I bet will relate to something in this song. The lyrics “I don't want to come crawling, but i catch myself falling” and “Because you know me better than I know myself” just hit home.

‘In Case You Don't Live Forever’  is a song that fully made me cry and I felt my heart drop a little. I am the sort of person who feels things deeply (classic libra yo) and I have this immense love for people! My family and my friends are everything to me so these songs have a sorrow tone which lowkey reminds me of someone dying! But as strange as this sounds - I love that dynamic of the song. It just reflects on your love for people and how that time is precious, so make the most of it and tell people how much they mean to you.

Album artwork is sweet and wholesome. I enjoy how it looks like he is pondering and thinking which reflects the overall emotional tone of these songs! 

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 5: The Black Keys - El Camino

Recommendation by Immy. 

I’m back babyyy! What a great album to get back into the swing of things! Plus my headphones are coming soon so that is going to make me listen to more and more music! Rip my Thesis amirite? ;) 

The first time I heard of the Black Keys were ages ago when they released Lonely Boy with that iconic music video that made everybody talk about them! The Black Keys are a rock band where through this album showcase their unique garage and pub band sound, that is highly influenced by that bluesy gritty guitar. The vocals I think are something of pure bliss - they can reach the low notes that make songs sound slutry and can also range to the high pitch rocker tones - that range is incredible!

From start to finish, this album really is solid! And you start happy and end happy! It is a very old school style album that you can tell is produced with the basics, giving this wholesome refined vibe to the entire album! These hooks come fast, songs are full of classy-riffs, soulful keyboard and the choruses will be stuck in your head long after you have finished the last song on the album. 

Favourite songs include ‘Dead and Gone’, ‘Run Right Back’ and ‘Stop Stop’. So, ‘Dead and Gone’ is very heavy on the drums, and that is broken down by these soft vocals and claps! It is apparent that this song is emotional and pairing a solid drum beat with softer vocals is a beautiful combination. I think ‘Run Right Back’ is an underrated song off the entire album - it packs a punch with that meaty guitar and drumming with sexy singing! The best part of the song is when the guitar drops out and there is this inherent tension layered amongst the bass. ‘Stop Stop’ is one of those songs you would go crazy for in a pub after a couple of pints! It just feels like a great time and boosts your mood! It is something about the cymbals in this track with the INCREDIBLE electric guitar, then the chorus is softer and almost childlike due to the xylophone!

Album artwork is cool! Nothing to fancy and nothing too over the top! I think it is clever naming the album after this vehicle and having such a simple picture of it as the album cover! Simple but effective! 

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 6: Niall Horan - Heartbreak Weather

Recommendation by Zheng and Me (because it is great). 

Okay, from the first listen I fell in love with Niall all over again! He is and always will have a spot in my heart which is such a lame thing to say, however, as a fangirl of one direction and now all their solo careers (mainly Niall, Harry and Louis). Honestly, this opinion piece is completely biased because my love for him clouds my judgement. 

I have been long awaiting this album as his first solo album was soooooo beautiful! We always knew he deserved more credit in One Direction as we all knew he could sing and this album just proves it to everyone who thought otherwise! Heartbreak Weather - what a great name for a great album! Heartbreak Weather shows a more softer honest approach to songwriting, where he explores the ups and downs of relationships, falling in love, and having that love slip through your fingers.

These songs also come with official visualizers, which are all so cute and fun, but also help as a storytelling device! Although this album did follow Harry’s, it stands on its own and has a unique identity! It did fill the one direction sized hole in my heart that is for sure! 

His first album Flicker is toned back, folk guitar style album so I was expecting certain elements of that to come through in this album. But from the first song, it is a more pop, produced, electric guitar style song with that same 80’s flare. The beats throughout these songs are punchy and have this electric vibe to them. He channels a deeper, sexy, romantic side throughout this album! 

There is so much variation and talent from start to finish in this album! He showcases his unique talents and pushes himself to do better in each song. He has beautiful piano slow vulnerable songs,then it goes to more upbeat, grungy 00’s numbers.  There is something for everyone and a song for every mood! The songs flow so wonderfully from one to another! They have differences, but his voice allows them to merge nicely! Each song gets better and better as they progress with different layers and instruments layered on top which helps add depth and complexity to sometimes cheesy lyrics!

Favourite Songs? Um, can I say every single song? Honestly, all his songs are bangers! But standouts for me definitely have to be ‘Still’, ‘San Francisco’, ‘Black and White’ and  ‘Everywhere’

‘Still’ is the final track on the album and I think it is my favourite track! It is all about being so in love with your partner and the lyrics just hit home for me personally! This song gave me goosebumps the first time I listened to it! Holy cow it is like this song is wrapping me up in a blanket and giving me a warm hug! This is such a slow burner of a power ballad.. As it has the 80’s influences and also gloominess to it that is just breathtaking. Oh man I love it!

‘San Francisco’ even though this production is very formulaic, I love every second of it! He is able to showcase his vocal talents and vulnerable side! When the music stops and it is just mainly him singly, you are able to really appreciate his range and tone in his voice.

‘Everywhere’ is one of the most underrated songs on the whole album! It has a Shawn Mendes / Jonas Brothers pop vibe to it and it has such a cool production to it! All the different elements such as clapping and simple guitar with sped up singing leading into this explosion of energy is amazing! That did not make much sense but all I am trying to say is the song is a bop!

‘Black and White’ does definitely feel like a one direction grown up version of ‘Little Things’. It has this preppy guitar strum and has this really cool tempo change - very much is a romcom song! And who doesn't love a romcom! Shout out to ‘Bend the Rules’ - although this isn't one of my standout songs, I love love love the deepness in his range during this song, which makes it velvet and dreamy! Almost like he is next to you!

Album Artwork is cute and I would have loved less cheesiness! But it is cute and it has his face on it and that is good enough for me! The way I interpret the artwork is as if falling in love is as risky as getting hit by lightning... Falling in love is so beautiful and scary and such a rush so I like to think of it in that way! 

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 7: Avril Lavigne - Let Go

Recommendation by Hannah Z.

Teenage years rejoice! 

Punk pop princess of my teenage years. At that time, she was the only female amongst that punk scene. It was largely dominated by males and boy bands such as Simple Plan and God Charlotte. The album is all about not being able to find state of mind and solid identity within life and in the music scene. 

There are a handful of genre changing smashes and mood swings throughout the album, so this is not entirely punk pop - it is almost pop with other elements. Some songs are more punk, some songs are more folk (Alanis Morrisette vibes)! It is weird as I thought she found her sound in the punk area but it isn't the case for this album. I just need to mention that this production is incredible for when it was released. The quality and singing ability is solid.

Favorite songs are easyyyy…. ‘Complicated’ is the teen anthem for many. It describes perfectly the teenage state of mind - anger, desperation, confusion, lust. Plus this song is a more rough Alanis Morissette Vibes! Can anyone forget ‘Sk8er Boi’, this song is incredible enough said. ‘When You’re Gone’ is one of the heartbreaking songs that is more on the acoustic side of things. And, ‘I'm with you’ is an absolute ballad early 90’s aerosmith vibing song. I think all these songs will resonate with many who grew up with her.

Album Artwork is great! I love how she is clear and everything around her is blurry… what a great photo that sums up the entire album! I love it! Love her, but her recent album is tragic. 

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 8: Angus and Julia Stone - Snow

Recommendation by Immy. 

Angus and Julia Stone are extremely talented musicians who I think deserve more credit in the Australian Music Scene. This album is beautiful as it is true to their roots with the minimalist and simplistic vibe. The vocal techniques and stunning harmonies make it so dreamy. They catchy indie folk songs allow the album to be bright and dreamy. I do like the album but it is not their best album that is for sure!  

The album is all about navigating past relationships and looking back on them with an outside perspective. There are a wide range of mellow tracks throughout the album, so I can see how people would get bored and for the songs to all merge together if you were not paying close attention. However, the mellow simplistic, stunning harmonies are so soft and allow you feel warmth while listening. 

Favourite tracks on the album are easy. ‘Chateau’ is one of my favourite songs ever so I would be a fool not to mention it. This song has this high pitch string pick, steady beat, and fun bass with a melodic ethereal vocal layering. I am a sucker for the ‘coos’ and ‘la la’s as it has this romantic edge throughout. Also the music video is gorgeous. 

‘Cellar Door’ is more erging on dance beats, and I love how there is more urgency in the beat and more bright sounding tones throughout! ‘Nothing Else’ has this super mellow, rainy day type of vibe to it! It is the type of song where it's winter and it's cold and you have a fire on and you have it on an old record. This is the vibe I have with this song! There is something so humble about it - perhaps it is the deep drawn out horn elements layered throughout.

Album artwork is nothing special… I like it but would have loved something more softer and simplistic. I do love the vibe of their clothing though!  Nothing really much to say about it. 

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 9: Chance the Rapper - 10 Day

Recommended by Freya E.

Chance the Rapper is one of my all time favourite artists, this dude is so fucking talented and he is so poetic and ahhh like he is just blessed with this ability to makes great music. This however is not my favorite album from Chance. This album does have some bangers, but he hasn't become confident in his own style nor found his distinct sound yet. Acid Rap is where he made his own sound and took more appropriate risks… but Colouring Book is the best album in my opinion! Fight me on that… 

His flow is unorthodox and is rad as, when he sings it is so raw and almost childlike. This album has so many Kanye vibes due to the percussion running throughout and layering of production. Chance interweaves emotional lyrics with fun plays on words! The thing that I love about him is the ability to rap about personal struggles but his voice and tone make it all lighthearted and you are able to follow the story of his lyrics. 

The Song 'Nostalgia’ is the most like Kanye off the whole album - lowkey College Dropout vibes. The beat of this song and the entire production is rad, but with this layer of sadness! Which fits because he is rapping about youth. ‘Brain Cells’ is so well formulated! It has this smooth lowkey aggressive flow that is done in a poetic way. The plays on words he does are insane. If he released a poetry book I would fuck with that yo. ‘Hey Ma’ is so sweet. The first time I heard this song was watching the music video and it is so cute! Like he is so little and it is just humbling. He is singing about his mama and it is just wholesome, plus the beat is so solid. 

Album artwork is cool. It is like an old comic book. What is there not to like. It is original and quirky. He is just so cute!

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 10: Doja Cat - Hot Pink

Recommendation by Sadez (lol)

Doja Cat is rad, and I love how different she is as she adds some quirk in the mainstream music which is needed. But I think a whole album of hers is a lot at once… The entire album feels like it is trying too hard, and each rack does actually sound like it is trying to be a hit - moving through those formulas to find the song that does well. This makes it have no distinct character.

All these songs have been done before in my opinion, but I do like some of them. Female rappers are nowdays talk so opennly about their sexuaity I kinda expected that, which I kinda like but actually don’t as it makes her hard to stand out. But the album has this synth funk and smooth bass running throughout. Her lyrics and.vocals aren't as strong as hoped, She reminds me so much of Nicki Minaj in Pink Friday but not as exciting and vibrant! Probably just scared or lacking that confidence that is needed to push boundaries. 

Favourites shouldn't come as a surprise given my love of TikTok… ‘Say So’ has this disco pop flare that is awesome. There is a reason that it is so popular - that shit is proper catchy yo. ‘Cyber Sex’ is great… like a toned back Nicki and more electronic reggae to make it more current and relevant! Her rap flows in this add to certain quirks to the album. And last but not least is “Like That’. This song is so chill and has this Gwen Stefani vibes to it! 

Album artwork is a cheesy pop star album! Not a fan aye. It could have been less childish and more futuristic and artistic.She is absolutely radiant though!

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 11: Beyonce - Lemonade

Recommendation by Tahlia-Rose 

I didn't expect anything else from Tahlia. This album has always been her fave ever since it dropped and can I blame her? 

I remember when this album dropped because it is was so unexpected and it did soooo fucking well. Alongside the killer album are the music videos or ‘visual album’ that she dropped also - and you know I froth a music video! The fact that she didn't need any press or any warning on the drop date speaks a thousand words. I do think, if you haven't watched the visual elements to this album, you definitely need to. There is this poetry that links these songs together, that just allows one to appreciate her art even more. The album screams women solidarity and the power of women - all ages, all colours, all backgrounds. 

This album is honestly best played in order if you really want that personal storytelling narrative. It is all about jealousy, rage, revenge and questioning that heartbreak feeling. Until then, Beyonce's private life had been very private and so making the most of those news stories and enhancing her pain into an album that a lot of people have felt. Doing so makes her even more iconic and can relate to people on a personal level.

The album was not necessarily the normal Beyonce vibe that we would associate with her - but everything she does is a step ahead of the game.  It flows between sorrow to anger, to heartbreak to hatred. She is pushed outside of her boxes, exploring more RnB electronic mashups, with spoken word lyrical features.  It is less about the beat and popularity of the song, and more about the feeling and emotive capabilities she is able to encapsulate through music. 

My favourites aren't surprising. First up is ‘Sorry’, a song all about being unapologetically true to your authentic self and boy oh boy does this song resonate with so many people. Its beat is both edgy and soft, that electronic sub beat is iconic, then she does this soft high pitch Bollywood riff! Wow. 

‘Love Drought’ - the name and concept of this song is what makes it my favourite. This song is almost like a whisper to herself, then boom. The beat of African drums comes blasting in almost like reality. ‘Sandcastles’ is a breathtaking song also and I cannot mention ‘Love Drought’ and not this one. They link so beautifully as a storytelling device, capturing the true rollercoasters of emotion. This song is so stripped back and raw and so compared to the rest of her songs on this album is the most heartbreaking. She sings about losing that trust to a slow simple Piano beat with a choir backing vocal. Gave me goosebumps. 

‘Forward’ is another incredible collaboration with the stunning James Blake. Any song he does, you know it is going to make you feel things. This song is so delicate and their voices are beautiful together!

Last but not least you have ‘All Night’. Now this is a banger! It is rough and gospel, then you have that strum of electric guitar layered on top!  In the visual element that goes alongside this song, it titles it ‘Redemption’ which sums up the song perfectly. It is a feeling of allowing that love to come running back into your life and the warmth in your heart when you do so. 

Can I just mention how she collaborated with the bloody Dixie Chicks - What a collab I never knew I needed. This is just so random that I love it! I do not think it works well with the overall vibe of the album but, it is Beyonce, she can do whatever she likes.

Album Artworks is STUNNING! I adore how it doesn't say her name, because she doesn't need to. The image is almost sad, and how she is resting her head in pain but there is also a sense of strength in that image also. Who knows… I just love it!

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 12: The Teskey Brothers - Half Mile Harvest

Recommendation by Sarah.

I think Sarah is winning when it comes to music tastes right now! Like how had I not heard of this band before - they are everything that I love about music. Like a love child of Norah Jones, Lumineers, Matt Corby and Leon Bridges. I read the little blurb about them on Spotify and was surprised they are from Australia! It is a proven fact that the best music is from Australia - it is the one thing they get right! 

Their sound is so raspy with soulful pub vibes. It is a mixture of 60’s blues rhythm, laid back retro beat. I love the integration of horns into music nowadays and think they are so underutilized in mainstream music, so I am so impressed by how they allow these songs to build in the orchestra components. Horns are so in sync and powerful, but they also blend so beautifully with the riffs of the vocals! 

These songs have a stripped back atmosphere which enables their music a sensitive aspect, allowing one to really let the music run through you! I wanna quickly mention that they have aspects of songs that have harmonica solos instead of drum solos which is absolutely rad! 

This voice is stunning, when I was finding the picture for this post I saw a post talking about how it is the perfect ‘soundtrack to a hipster romance’. That sums up the vibe of the album so well! It almost has that Norah Jones vibes in the movie Notting Hill - if you do not understand what I am talking about then you should really watch that asap!

Favorite songs were hard to choose, however, my standouts on the album include ‘Pain and Misery’, ‘I Get Up’ and ‘Louisa’. These I feel just showcased the range and just emphasises what an incredible talent this band has. 

I am not a big fan of the album artwork. Yeah Na.

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 13: Knuckle Puck - Shapeshifter

Recommendation by Kyle

This recommendation is from my beautiful friend Kyle, which I was worried about as he loves his heavy metal and young emo kid music but also loves the golden oldies. So I did not know what to expect. I listened to the first song and had to stop. I was not emotionally ready to listen to an entire album of heavy punk! The only reason I managed to get through this album is because I had just listened to the All Time Low album (it is great however nothing exciting btw). And this album does actually remind me of my young All Time Low phase in life! Oh the nostalgia!

This is the first time I have ever heard of them and they were okay. I do find it hard to distinguish different emo-punk bands apart as they all sound the same to me. However, the album has great guitar and bass, and mixing with the locals is cool. Most of the songs are slow-moving then comes in with a big punchy chorus. True to the genre, I can tell this album would have been very popular among pop-punk fans. This album mixes between hard headbangers with strong instrumentals. And then the softer side, that has more heartfelt lyrical moments. There is no doubt in my mind that certain lyrics will end up as those cheesy Tumblr posts. If I am being honest, some songs I had to skip as it just was too aggressive for me and couldn't understand what was being said. 

My favourite song is ‘Double Helix’ due to the lyrics being all about an ex that still plays on your mind constantly, but it still had the pop-punk elements. I love how it starts soft and then builds tension with the lyrics balancing between the two dudes singing... like a riff-off lol. The next song is ‘Stuck in our ways’, mainly like this song because of the scratchy guitar that is layered beneath everything else. Then you have the part of the song when it's soft singing and it just feels so full of emotion.

Album artwork is not what I expect with a pop-punk band. It is very artistic, soft and sweet. I am unsure if I like it on an album like theirs due to it being so random, or if I love the fact that it is such a contrast.

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 14: Stormzy - Heavy is the Head

Recommendation by Dani S. 

This album is true to what you expect from Stormzy - grime, UK rap music, smooth and sexy, with killer collabs. I do think it is too long and some songs should have been cut or released as a deluxe version of the album. But I love it other than that!

This album is a great album to really really showcase his true ability and how diverse of an artist he is. The tone and vibe are so quick to change throughout the album - a rollercoaster of tracks that all switch up the feeling that you should be feeling! I like that about this album, as normally I listen to albums on non-shuffle and then again on shuffle, and either or the setlist of songs does not affect the overall vibe. 

What I have noticed through writing about these albums is the fact that with hip hop and rappers, they are always trying to come up with new and exciting beats, that either are so overproduced and bad, or, are just so new that it is brilliant!  Yes, some lyrics are corny but I like that. It makes it easy to listen to and sometimes in life you have to be corny, therefore making it utterly relatable. 

I have a lot of favourites on this album as a lot just stand out for different reasons. Special shout out to ‘Lessons’ and ‘Crown’. However the ones I am going to talk about stood out more!

I just love love love Yebba so so so so much. When this album came out ‘Don’t Forget to Breathe’ was the first song I listened to. This is a collaboration that is perfect… like I actually melted. I wish it wasn't an interlude and went on for much longer though.   

The next stand out song is ‘Wiley Flow’, This beat with that horn siren type thing in the background makes it a gritty song. However, it has soft areas where the speed of his rap slows after he builds tension with his rap speed and it's like a breath of air. This song live would be insane! 

‘Rainfall’ is a bangerrrrr. And I will repeat banger until you listen to it right now! It is such a good vibe because of the beat, but what I love most is the lyrics and message. This idea of kingship is so well integrated through the album that this song just is Stormzy at his absolute best! Plus Tiana Major9 kills it... when she comes in, like wow!

Album artwork is stunning! I have been loving that deep dirty emerald green recently and to have such a simple background with an emotive image holding that flag… all relates to this idea of kingship and the honour and pressure that comes with being a top in the field of music. It shows a vulnerable side in my eyes.

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 15: Don Toliver - Heaven or Hell

Recommendation by Aidan

I have never actually listened to any of Don Toliver, and if I have I was fully unaware!  So this was my first time actually really listening to him! Right off the bat he has these nasal vocals that remind me of Akon and the nature of Travis Scott which is so weird. 

These songs are so cohesive and link so well together. They have this transition both, between songs and in the songs where he keeps this hype going then boom - a smooth transition into the hook. There are no dull moments in this album. His voice is so expressive and can be elevated and soften so easily, which adds a bit of sexy to this album. 

If I am being honest, I wasn't blown away by this album - yes it was well produced and it manages to have a cool futuristic vibe. I feel like it isn't pushing the boundaries as much as others have been (astroworld).

My favourite song on this album is ‘Afterparty’. This beat is insane! You have some random ass beats in the back, it sounds like a high pitch UFO/space sound. This song encapsulates the feeling drunk people get when they go hard and fast then chill for a second and your head goes spinning!! He draws out that feeling into a song… what an incredible talent!

The album artwork is new and different. It is very rare to see a basic watercolour sketch! I love the simplicity of it! It is clever to have it reflect on the wild west vibe idea of an old motel in the desert, but has this big futuristic thinking of a rocket car thing. LOVE those contrasting views. 

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 16: Anderson .Paak - Malibu

There is a long debate within Anderson Paak fans on what album is better - Malibu or Oxnard! I do think Malibu solely because it was his first album and it was absolutely incredible! Malibu is a setlist full of songs with RnB funk and neo-soul! The creative vision of this album is jaw-dropping! Everything is nicely balanced, as you have the smooth deliveries with the passionate funk.

The second half of the album is better than the start which is annoying. Like don't get me wrong some of the beginning racks are awesome, but they just don’t resonate with you like the second half of the album does! The start has a lot more instruments and mixing of sounds where the end involves more in-your-face beats. 

It is an album that is impossible to love. Hooks are so smooth and they just flow effortlessly making this album fun to listen to! The beat and sound is infectious… you can't stay in a bad mood after listening to this album! This is such a bright vibrant album that just oozes groove!

Bass, Smooth vocals, takes influences from a lot of genres but in a controlled manner that allows him to bend them to fit his sound. It is a big call but I think it is the most cohesive album I have listened to by far during this isolation period! 

Favourite songs are ‘Put Me Thru’, ‘Come Down’ and ‘Silicon Valley’.‘Put Me Thru’ is honestly such a feel-good song, with a catchy melody and harmonies. It delivers soul and RnB funk! ‘Come Down’ reminds me of the 'Bring it on’ movies. Which is a strange thing to associate it with! But this song has that double-fast backbeat, mixed with that beat-driven lyrics! I love the combination of the two! ‘Silicon Valley’ is just a sexy track. The grind of that electric beat with his beautiful soulfulness, backed up with those horns! Wowee!

Album artwork is a complete mess but it works so well as all the elements add to the story! I love the scrapbook vibes with an orange old school photograph tint to the colour resolution! It shows him having fun in a colourful quirky way!

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 17: Queen - A Night At The Opera

Recommendation by Kayleigh

Okay what a fucking rad album to suggest! An iconic band and their music will continue to be around for agesss! If I am being honest I have PTSD when it comes to Queen…. Brings back bad memories rip, but let's see how this goes! 

This one will be super short mainly because they are too iconic and have no idea how to put into words what their music is achieving - nowadays and back then! 

This album has a rich sound with aspects of fantasy and physellic vibes!  The depth they were able to get into these songs is incredible. It is very much a rock album to the core! But it has aspects that just scream their classic sound! Like from get go, who would put ‘Death On Two Legs’ first and then follow up with ‘Lazing On A Sunday Afternoon’ which has similar vibes to the Beatles!  This pattern seems to flow throughout the element - a more hard ansty rocker tune and then a softer mellow bop! This seems to flow nicely! 

This album is not my all time favourite Queen Album! But that is because I call myself a fake fan - only liking the classic hits that everyone else knows! But I suppose this is the album that had ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ on it so everything else in comparison is weaker! 

‘You’re My Best Friend’ is a tune! What a happy tune! Songs that I have never heard before like ‘Love Of My Life’... this song has that piano melody and the pure talent radiating through! Did like this song a lot, even though it is so simple for Queen!  These hooks are to die for and resonate with you, long after you finish listening to the album. 

Album Artwork is cool! I suppose back in the day it would have been pushing boundaries and all that jazz however it is a bit lackluster! I would have wanted something more gritty, but now thinking about, the bubblegum colours do contrast alort with the sound!  I appreciate the idea of having it look like one of those knockoff royalty type things also.

[cravinggoodmusic]

Day 18: Tyler, The Creator - IGOR

Recommendation by Jam.

Okay I am so behind at writing these little reviews it isn't funny. Man I am slack! 

But I love this album and so when Jam gave it to me to do I was extremely happy! Especially after hearing it was her break up album… like that is a mood! The production skills of this album are insanely good! It is cleaner and more driven than his last album, and boy oh boy do I love it when artists show development and self confidence. 

The emotional loved-up focus of IGOR resonates with a lot of people, therefore making this album unique in a way that it can be a breakup album, even though not normally considered one. This is due to the fact that it is no soppy Lewis Capaldi ballads, but it is still that same level of emotionally gripping-ness due to the clever combination of hip-hop with soft dreamy soul. 

He navigates through loneliness and heartbreak in a way that doesn't promote crying,  but soul ressonating lyrics that make you think due to the promonet synth. Here we see that 70’s vibe peeking through again with the drumming and jazzy piano. As I just listened to old school Kanye, I can see the comparisons between the two artists! They both are not afraid to take risks and always one step ahead! I do feel that he has lost some of that raw truth that people loved about his previous work. 

All these songs are different and do not have the same structure as the other. This album is a journey but so cleverly linked through similar production synth elements! 

The last two songs are my stand outs of the album! ‘I Don't Love You Anymore’, is so haunting and then the beat breaks that spooky vibe! Then all of a sudden that electronic guitar comes in with the harmonies! Ooh what a cool combination! It reminds me of a kettle boiling!  Extremely simple song but it is iconic that is for sure!

‘Are We Still Friends’ is my favorite song on the album! Most ballady song on the albu and I love how it is last on his list. This is very vulnerable lyrically, and there is this tension between that and the beat. That is why I find this song so encaptivating!

Ever since this came out I have been obsessed with his album artwork… like how utterly rad is that! The use of that bright soft pin and the black and white roughly cut out image. It is such a juxtaposition but so effective!