Johnny Manchild and the Poor Bastards - Oh, Songbird
The Poor Bastards are back with their first single since 2022. “Oh, Songbird” is the first single released for their upcoming album, Rapture Waltz, that releases on March 22nd. The song is a small departure from previous singles as it gets rid of the horns section that JMPB is known for. The song was written during the pandemic, and Manchild sings about the isolation he felt during lockdown. The song has an upbeat tone, saying even though things are bad now, that they will get better. Manchild played more guitar than normal on this album, and it shows in spades on this track. “Oh, Songbird” is a punk/indie rock song that pairs well with JMPB’s earlier work on the Valencia EP and Insomnia. It’s a successful first single that gets me really excited for the full album.
- Logan Hurston
Nicholas Craven and Boldy James - Penalty of Leadership
In his 8th full length LP, the Detroit native and veteran lyrical savant shows his stripes once again with chill but impactful bars over the trademark fun grooves brought to us by producer Nicholas Craven. This is not the duos first time working together, as 2022 saw the pair release a fan favorite LP in Fair Exchange No Robbery. For a rapper who's been around as long as Boldy James, it is rare to see serious sonic evolution and technical improvements in one's repertoire, and it shouldn't be expected here. Rather, it is much more about maintaining one's trademark skills and lyrical finesse, without repeating yourself and losing the interest of fans. Similar to Nas, Black Thought, and Pusha T, James seems to have no problem with this. With only one feature on the project from Double Dee, Boldy shows once again his ability carry a project lyrically from start to finish. He is able to seamlessly transition his flow over Craven's beat switches to keep listeners guessing, all the while delivering details of his life and upbringing with exquisite detail, never failing to display the emotion in his voice and experiences. Not much more can be said on my end other than Penalty of Leadership has emerged as the early frontrunner for best rap albums of 2024, and though we're obviously only a few weeks in, Boldy James will speak his name and his work into the upper echelon of rap records for months to come. Don't forget about this one once superlative season rolls around.
Favorite Tracks: "Formal Invite" ; "Murderous Tendencies" ; Straight As"
- Will Lewis
To Learn, More - Leith Ross
Acoustic singer-songwriter Leith Ross released the full version of their debut album, To Learn, More, on December 8. Arriving nearly 6 months after its predecessor, To Learn, the extended edition features two bonus songs and three live performances. Ross gained widespread acclaim when a clip of their song “We’ll Never Have Sex” went viral on Tiktok in 2021. Their first full-length album was highly anticipated, and dare I say, it lived up to the hype. To Learn, More explores the intricacies of a one-sided relationship (a situationship, if you will). It’s delusion contrasted with self-awareness– acting like you’re fine, but secretly feeding off the false optimism of your misconceptions. It’s beautiful and delicate and heartbreaking; a nearly-flawless display of Ross’s eloquence in describing the emotions that often go unspoken.
One of the most notable qualities of To Learn, More is its cohesivity. Despite alternating between intimate acoustic performances and gentle soft-rock inspired production, Ross’s poignant lyricism carries through each track to craft their own signature sound. Their voice, though simple, is ethereal. Despite being often compared to the likes of Phoebe Bridgers or Lizzy McAlpine, there’s a certain organic quality that separates Leith Ross from other singer-songwriters. This is an exceptionally strong debut album, and I wish it would get the attention it deserves. Leith Ross will one day become a prominent figure in the industry, mark my words.
Favorite Songs: “Guts,” “(You) On My Arm (Live Session),” “I Just Don’t Think That You Like Me That Much”
- Lauren Alexander
