Producers: Various 

Albany-based Mia Asano (electric violin) and Ally the Piper have gone viral time and again for their unique reimaginations of hard rockin’ songs. Their TikToks—including “5 Metallica Songs You Didn’t Know Could Bagpipe” and “Through the Fire and Flames”—have caught the attention and approval of the original players. The Viral Hits are just that, well-produced renditions of their popular covers. “Free Bird” and “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” are standouts, verging on novelty over utility, but Mia x Ally’s musicianship is undeniable! 

Producer: Nikhil Korula 

Guitarist Korula embraces his musical roots, with a tip of the hat to Clapton, Hendrix, Robert Johnson, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Freddie King, et al. Here are 15 instrumental gems that emphasize open rhythms and stealthily executed improvisation. The Power Trio is augmented wonderfully throughout by buoyant horns and the soulful keyboard textures of guests Chuck Leavell and Bob Malone. Give a listen to originals like the Stax-flavored “Struttin’” or the strong piano ballad “When I’m With You.” Righteous! 

Producer: Brian Tarquin 

Sometimes the cause is more important than the art, and this album benefits the veterans charity Hope For The Warriors, “who provide medical care, mental health counseling, professional training and education, physical conditioning and transition services for wounded, ill, and injured Marines and Navy members.” Tarquin has assembled some top-notch talent for this jazz-rock odyssey, including Eric Johnson, Robben Ford, Steve Morse and more.

Producers: Various 

With over 30 years in this rap game, Busta Rhymes is showing no signs of fatigue. His latest release, titled Blockbusta, is his 11th studio album; and it’s executively produced by Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, and Swizz Beatz (three highly respected producers in the music business). “Beach Ball,” “Luxury Life” and “Big Everything” are just a few of the many bangers on this album, which features artists like Bia, Quavo, Burna Boy, and Coi Leray. And Blockbusta is just like its album cover, a volcano that’s erupted. 

Producers: Various 

Millyz, an emcee and singer from the mean streets of Boston, MA, has been on his lyrical grind for a while; and has gotten co-signs from notable rappers in the rap game along the way. Laced with metaphors with real life behind his lyrics, Millyz is true to his music. Holy Water is heartfelt and insightful with songs like “Holy Water,” “Last Time,” and “Soul Bleed.” This album features guest appearances from hip-hop personalities like OhGeesy, Fivio Foreign, and Benny the Butcher. 

Producers: Various 

As the viral hit “Greedy” keeps climbing up the charts, Canadian pop singer Tate McRae is striking while the iron is hot with her second studio album Think Later. McRae’s music shines when she embraces her bold persona and dynamic melodies in tracks like “exes” and “run for the hills.” Woefully, the songwriting relies heavily on radio-friendly and stereotypical tropes that don’t help her stand out amongst her pop peers. 

Producers: J. Cuse, Thomas Bowen, Chino 

Chino’s major label debut blends pop, R&B and hip-hop, heavy on the pop sensibility. Lead singles “Rocketship” and “Stay Down” are earworms, easy-to-listen to with chilled-out jazz guitar and sizzling dance drum beats. While the entire project is only seven songs, it is hard to hear variance when listening to the whole album, as many tracks share the same formula and ingredients. The brief duet “No Good” deserves a shoutout for its guest feature Taylor Blasucci who added pretty harmonies and a feminine mystique. 

Producers: Various 

Colombian-American songstress Kali Uchis honors her heritage by masterfully blending fiery Spanish and English production for her fourth studio album Orquídeas. Uchis’ versatility dazzles as the first half features her signature low-tempo soul sound and progresses to interesting bolero and dance influences in tracks like “Te Mata” and “Dame Beso Muevete.” The musical features, including “The Igual Que Un Ángel” with Peso Pluma and “Labios Mordidos” with Karol G, are also a must-listen. 

Producer: Andrew Lappin

As both a vocalist and storyteller, gossamer voiced poet and offbeat yet straight to the heart singer-songwriter has earned nonstop lofty comparisons (Joni Mitchell, Norah Jones) throughout her 13-year recording career. Still, none of those quite prepare us for the way she seduces, then pierces the heart and invites her way in via dreamy-breezy melodies—which mostly caress in ballad form, but sometimes groovy pop. She remains a master at artfully juxtaposing the mundanity of life with soul-deep sacredness, using casual observations as portals to epiphanies on the heavier truths of existence.  – Jonathan Widran

Producer: Hal Jon Vorpahl

After a five year hiatus this Austin, Texas band returns with a fresh spin on gritty Americana-flavored rock. Fronted by the powerful and expressive vocals of Kevin Galloway, they’re not ones to follow tried and true. There is a unity here that’s familiar but stands alone. Exciting and experimental production blends with soulful string orchestrations. Everything from Jimmy Webb and Burt Bacharach-like song craft to CCR-tinged social commentary is fair game. – Eric Harabadian