New Music Friday: The best new music from Steve Lacy & more

The best new music from the week of July 17th!

New Music Friday Picks

It’s New Music Friday! Despite initial assumptions, today has turned out to be a solid mix of new music that defines this summer. Not only that, but we get to see the long-awaited return from of our beloved music favs. This week’s edition specifically features standout releases from Steve Lacy, Rick Ross, James Blake/Travis Scott, and many more.

Steve Lacy – ‘Oh yeah’ (Album)

Viewed in the context, that it’s been four years since Steve Lacy last dropped, this break has given him time to make a more serious album. Reinforcing that notion, the themes revolve around lust and desire and where he falls in between. Symbolically, ‘Gemini Rights’ feels like a funky summer, while ‘Oh yeah’ gives off a winter breakup feeling. All in all, his charming yet unhinged lyrics are backed by some gorgeous vocals making this a hopeful listening experience.

Rick Ross – ‘Set In Stone’ (Album)

In conjunction with it being summer, there’s no better pairing than some luxurious raps from Rick Ross. From start to finish, you can expect to hear him casually flowing over some soulful production like the veteran he is. More specifically, his ability to keep listeners’ morale high due to his lyrical skills is what will have you coming back for more motivation.

Syd – ‘Beard’ (Album)

At last, The Internet frontwoman, Syd is finally back with a solo album and she noticeably sounds recharged. For instance, she was able to tackle a plethora of adult themes like self-awareness and honesty in a cohesive manner. It’s safe to say she truly gave us a masterclass in songwriting with ‘Beard.’

Larry June – ‘Who Coppin’ (Album)

Time after time, Larry June has proved he’s one of the most consistent artists of this era, and his latest album cements that sentiment. Taking everything into account and how often he drops, he somehow continues to retool/refresh his sound to not sound stagnant. Ultimately, you won’t get another rapper like Larry who’s capable of conveying life over laid-back instrumentals like he does.

Masego – ‘Fix Ya Face’ (Album)

In retrospect, one could make a compelling argument that Masego might have the best R&B album to drop yesterday off the strength of powerful collaborators and the inclusion of live instrumentation. Simply put, he essentially assembled the R&B avengers by having features from living legends like Keyshia Cole & Musiq Soulchild. In conclusion, he did a phenomenal job in showcasing what sets him apart from his peers artistically and even conceptually.

Travis Scott/James Blake – “When I’m Home” (Single)

On closer inspection, Travis Scott’s lead single for “The Odyssey” should give you hope for future movie soundtracks, given how perfectly it captures the movie’s dreamlike essence. Side by side, Travis & James Blake have shown off their tremendous chemistry, making them an underrated duo. At the core, if you’ve been missing his iconic ‘Days Before Rodeo’ sound, this is the track to relive that nostalgia.

Lil Baby – “Dead Fresh” (Single)

At face value, many would say Lil Baby’s music quality has dipped, but his newest track says otherwise based on how hungry he sounds. Behind the scenes, we get some banging trap production from Pharrell, as he creatively pushes Baby out of his comfort zone. As it appears, he has returned to form and sounds hungrier than ever.

Peezy – “I Can’t Tell” ft Babyfxce E (Single)

Lastly, our final spot of New Music Friday comes from Detroit’s finest, Peezy & Babyfxce E. Lyrically, this pair paints a vivid picture of their love of women with their charming wordplay. In a broader context, this track is very much a MI torch-passing moment, as we get to see two generations share the stage.