Part 1 – by Alex Payne

2018 has proven itself to be incredibly fruitful for hip hop fans, and the last few weeks have been no exception, with a wide range of diverse projects dropping almost daily. Perhaps the most consistent project for me has been from Californian lyricist Vince Staples, with his third full length release ÔÇÿFMÔÇÖ. At just 22 minutes long, itÔÇÖs a brief look into VinceÔÇÖs acerbic mind, punctuated frequently with radio themed skits. ItÔÇÖs short length is a subtle counter to the drawn-out projects that dominate the modern streaming landscape.

Crawling out of the left field is ÔÇÿMUDBOYÔÇÖ, the debut brainchild of relative newcomer, Sheck Wes. Exploding onto the scene last summer with his breakout banger, ÔÇÿMo Bamba’, Wes brings untameable energy, spitting raw verses that are encapsulated within dark, skeletal beats. If youÔÇÖre looking for a project to scratch that mosh trap itch, ÔÇÿMUDBOYÔÇÖ has you covered. However, if youÔÇÖre looking for something a little more lyrical, Open Mike Eagle might be more your cup of tea. Having spent the better part of the last decade building a reputation in the Los Angeles underground scene as one of the sharpest rappers, MikeÔÇÖs back with ÔÇÿWhat Happens When I Try to RelaxÔÇÖ, an uncomfortable yet witty EP that follows in the same vein as his last full album. A scathing reflection on racial inequalities is intertwined with well crafted punchlines and MikeÔÇÖs own personality, making for a deeply personal and poignant commentary. Whatever sub-genre of rap youÔÇÖre into, 2018 continues to be full of innovative and thrilling releases.

Part 2 – by Emilia Jansson

Ariana Grande has been a constant feature in the press this year. After a highly publicised engagement with Pete Davidson, combined with the tragic news of Mac Miller, there is enough to fill pages of gossip about her. However, Grande leaves all that behind her with the release of her latest single ÔÇÿthank u, nextÔÇÖ.

While many artists claim to be inspired by real experiences, they will often remain coy when asked for further details. This is not the case for Grande who names and thanks many of her exes in her song, expressing what they taught her. Big Sean is the first name-drop ÔÇ£Thought IÔÇÖd end up with Sean, but he wasnÔÇÖt a matchÔÇØ whereas backup dancer Ricky Alvarez gets a tongue-in-cheek shoutout with ÔÇ£Wrote some songs about Ricky, now I listen and laughÔÇØ. Even Mac Miller is referenced with ÔÇ£Wish I could say thank you to Malcom. ÔÇÿCause he was an angelÔÇØ.

After thanking her exes, Grande spends the second part of the single preaching self love and states that sheÔÇÖs moved on to someone else and that it will last ÔÇ£ÔÇÿCause her name is Ari and IÔÇÖm good with thatÔÇØ.

Ariana Grande may be infamous for her romantic life but ÔÇÿthank u, nextÔÇÖ allows her to embrace her past and move on. The quirky pop song serves as a reminder to the public that celebrities are humans with private lives. Growing up in the public eye is difficult enough without your entire love life splashed on the front pages of the press, and allowing some self-love and acceptance is what Grande deserves.

Part 3 – by Munro Page

BasementÔÇÖs newest LP ÔÇÿBeside MyselfÔÇÖ has dominated my new listening this October. The fourth studio album by the flannel-shirt wearing Norwich based emo/alternative rock band is consistent, well produced and easy on the ear. The release doesnÔÇÖt offer much in the way of groundbreaking innovation, though it doesnÔÇÖt leave you feeling unsatisfied. The band are known for their anthemic cuts which they pull off superbly when playing live, and itÔÇÖs not hard to see the bold opening track ÔÇÿDisconnectÔÇÖ and the beautiful guitar chorus on ÔÇÿStigmataÔÇÖ going down a treat at festivals next summer.

The second record from Australian jangle pop trio The Goon Sax has also been a favourite of mine these past few weeks. One of my friends saw them live in Brighton on their UK tour and recommended their rustic, sharp and down-to-earth sound to me. ÔÇÿWeÔÇÖre Not TalkingÔÇÖ is original and relatable, with the lively guitar rhythms being paired perfectly with the placid vocal delivery, finished off with the odd flourish of some strings for good measure. ÔÇÿShe KnowsÔÇÖ and ÔÇÿA Few Times Too ManyÔÇÖ are the standout tracks for me; itÔÇÖs the kind of record to soundtrack making scrambled eggs on a lazy Sunday morning.

The new single from Paul Smith has also left an impression on me with its tender lyrics and catchy riffs. ÔÇÿJohnÔÇÖ is a heartfelt jangle-pop dedication to a friend, sung with a wonderful vulnerability by the Max├»mo Park front man, who released his new solo album ÔÇÿDiagramsÔÇÖ earlier this month.