BEN’S PICKS

Jeshi- Universal Credit

2022 was a year that saw alternative rap soar to unfounded popularity in the UK. Many of the scene’s biggest players - Loyle Carner, Knucks, Sainté etc - released projects that saw them amass major success, solidifying the genre’s place at the industry table and augmenting their own acclaim. For me though, one body of work stood out as the pinnacle of talent, innovation and emotion. Jeshi’s Universal Credit is as daring as it is despairing, as cynical as it is charismatic. In our narrator we find a voice of a generation, a writer who defines the crumbling trust, weaning hope and flailing naivety that submerges many young people in modern society. Over eclectic and evolving palettes, Jeshi’s expressive nonchalance never ceases to capture his potent essence. It may seem like all doom and gloom, but the rapper’s raw honesty is rousing and powerful; the skies are greying right now, but there’s always sunlight behind them.

Listen here.

Jockstrap - I Love You Jennifer B

In a year that saw simplified sampling and reinterpretations of past songs take a devastatingly dross turn, the emergence of something truly unique and groundbreaking should be applauded and cherished. In the creation of their debut album I Love You Jennifer B, duo Jockstrap have found themselves in a newly discovered pocket. Unrestricted by tone and undefinable by genre, Georgia Ellery’s delicate songwriting and ethereal vocality are simultaneously ameliorated and juxtaposed by Taylor Skye’s avant garde and unpredictable production. Often moving from sublime and seamless sonic bliss into challenging and texturally off-kilter mayhem within the same song, this body of work surprises and encapsulates, ultimately leaving you flabbergasted and salivating for more. 

Listen here.

Lord Apex - Joga Bonita

Another significant player in the UK alternative rap space, Lord Apex has reached a point in that he feels untouchable. Apex could surely be bigger if he truly had the desire to be as ‘famous’ as possible, but instead the Elevation Meditation member opts to stroll around out of sight of the industry’s blinding light, basking in the glory of underground success and creative freedom. Here he finds himself in Brazil, working with native producer El Lif Beatz, unveiling one of his most explorative and entertaining projects to date. Atop the creamy production from El Lif, Apex is as playful and enticing as ever, seemingly destined to continue to elevate his artistry until he himself chooses to call it a day. 

Listen here.

BECKY’S PICKS

Amalie Bryde - In & Out of Love

If this year gifted me with anything, it was my introduction to the Danish songstress Amalie Bryde. I first discovered the talented artist when reviewing her single ‘Stranger Inside’, but little did I know what was to come with the release of her self-produced EP In & Out of Love.

This EP has everything; from a Heaven-sent duet with romantic rockstar Svetlana, to the eternal bop that is ‘Like This, Like That’. Amalie vocal prowess is showcased impeccably in every song, adapting her angelic tones to a variety of genres. Bryde effortlessly utilises her lyrical ingenuity to tear at your heartstrings, taking you on an odyssey of self-love and romantic whimsy. ‘Stranger Inside’ still holds a place in my heart, both for being an introduction to one of the best upcoming artists of 2022, but also for its unique Spanish guitar riff and sumptuous lyricism. 

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carina - spaceout!

It’s all too common nowadays to judge the worth and quality of an album on its storytelling ability, the masterful way in which an artist can guide you through the arc of a musical tale. However, carina proves that this need not make a perfect album. Her EP is closer to a musical soundscape than a traditional album, but this is what makes it so delicious. carina has been very open about her own struggles with dissociation, but here she wields those struggles as a weapon for positivity - she allows the listener to experience the joys that exist within dissociation, giving them the opportunity to truly escape the struggles and strife that come with modern life. An artist with a bright future, you’d be amiss to give this EP a miss. 

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Bellah - Adultsville

Coming into adulthood is almost universally a tumultuous experience, and Bellah somehow manages to capture every facet of the experience with unnervingly relatable ease. 

Bellah is known for being a master of storytelling, but this album showcases her unparalleled ability to compose songs that feel like a personal conversation with her listeners. This album drew me in from its opening line: “just got evicted from my youth, didn’t even get a notice”. Not only does this introduce you to the core theme of each track, but anybody in the same generation as the songstress can’t help but be hit with the depth of relatability and poignancy in these lyrics. An album that consists of tracks that can only be described as bops, each track will leave a mark on you and leave you in anticipation for the future works of this musical genius.

Listen here.

DYLAN’S PICKS

Roc Marciano x The Alchemist- The Elephant’s Mans Bones 

This was always going to be the first one for me. Some real pedigree here both on and off the mic; it’s Roc Marciano and the flow that earned him a Bentley over a couple of Alchemist type-beats… I mean come on. Not really a weak track on the album, nice mix of sounds and features with ‘Daddy Kane’ perhaps becoming my soundtrack for leaving work (or life in general), regardless whole project deserves a mention, as if you don’t already know. I don’t think any pressure was felt by either artist, but this does almost feel like two sport-icons going toe to toe in an exhibition match. 

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Clbrks x Kiina - HABITS 2

Less inclined to include this one as I did cover it for The Pit, but the fact it still springs to mind nearly 9 months after its release I think shows how much I rate this project. The sequel to their equally playable 2017 drop, but just that bit more complete… proof that sequels can be on par with originals. Another one I would immediately stick on after clocking out, think the darker soundscapes will play quite nicely on these brisk evenings. Timeless, unforgettable and just a habit for Clbrks and his mate Kiina. 

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Your Old Droog- The Yodfather 

Third one always the toughest- could have been a couple different ones but I had to include some Droog after the year he has had. Mad to think that even though this only dropped at the end of October he already has a new project out, ultimately taking him up to 6 for the year! ‘The Yodfather’ though is my favoured cultural-candidate; the bars and metaphors on this are just comically good and almost make you feel bad for other rappers whose minds do just not work in the ways this guys does. The first three freestyles are really a lesson in art, nothing more or less. So many life lessons too, knowledge is power when you hold a mic like this.

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HANA’S PICKS

Drake - Honestly, Nevermind

Drake once again polarized audiences with the release of his 2022 album Honestly, Nevermind. A shapeshifter of sorts - the artist adapted a fusion house, dance, and Baltimore club for his 7th studio album. Where we see the explosion of club-like mixes and house tunes as a sweeping trend, the artist’s forte for remixing classic underground genres was on full display with this timely release. Dawning 21 Savage as its only feature, Honestly, Nevermind brought us earworms like ‘Flight’s Home’, ‘Massive’, meme fave ‘Falling Back’, and a hopelessly infectious soundtrack for summer. 

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Lil Silva - Yesterday is Heavy
Yesterday is Heavy is simply a must-listen. An undeniable talent, Lil Silva released his first official album following his salient burst onto the underground electric scene in the early 2010s. Presenting a blissfully varied yet strikingly cohesive tracklist - every song pronounces the artist’s signature sound and gift for production. We hear Skiifall, BADBADNOTGOOD, Little Dragon, Ghetts, serpentwithfeet, and of course longtime collaborator Sampha. Complex and textured in his approach, the artist drowns out the noise to present a sincerely magnetic project. 

Listen here.

JAMES’ PICKS

Avantdale Bowling Club - TREES

Out of Aotearoa comes Avantdale Bowling Club and their latest album Trees. It’s a tightly themed narrative album, provocatively and poetically depicting the everyday struggle of paying rent in Auckland. As a father. With a weed farm.

It follows their Taite Music Prize-winning precursor and Tom Scott (Home Brew, Average Rap Band, @Peace) doesn’t miss a beat. 

Self-described ‘irrelevant jazz’, (irreverent would be better), the likes of Christoph El Truento, Haz Beats, Mara TK, Jong-Yung Lee and Julien Dyne contribute to a project not a far cry from some of Kendrick’s most influential work. I said it and I meant it.

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Connie Constance - Miss Power

Miss Power is a moving and distinctly British ‘sonic book of magic’. Crafted by Connie Constance and Karma Kid, the project is candid and affirming - its title playing on Connie’s actual surname Power. 

Independence and self-acceptance play clear roles in this page-turner of ugly love. So, powerful it is. The unrelenting title track in particular, as well as other previous singles ‘Mood Hoover’ and ‘Hurt You’.

Her LP draws on elements of indie, post-punk, pop and spoken word, with wit and memorable lines sewn the whole way through. No less on ‘YUCK!’ or the closer ‘Red Flag’.

Connie Constance is a voice to be heard and shouldn’t be missed from this list.

Listen here.

Tzusan - WSPSNSYRP

Part inspired by the dead wasps that live in his studio, Tzusan’s WSPSNSYRP is a surreal but viscerally real LP, produced and performed by the man himself. 

Edinburgh’s MC of the moment put it out independently, and has just completed a UK tour celebrating the new project, which linked his hometown with home-away-from-home, Brighton.

Over the album you’ll catch frequent collaborator CRPNTR, TrueMendous, the CMPND boys, King Grubb and Papillon. Plus, it only made sense to call fellow Scotsman Shogun for ‘Strange Fictions’ - a pairing we’re set to see much more from soon.

Tune in for an intricate, hallucinogenic collage from one of alternative rap’s most promising prospects.

Listen here.

JAY’S PICKS

Steve Lacy – Gemini Rights 

Whilst my picks of Steve Lacy, JID, and Loyle Carner may seem like obvious choices, they are just that great, and each album individually shows the artists reaching their full, or close to full potential – finally realised, years after first breaking through. Ever since hearing Dark Red, I’d been rooting for Steve Lacy, and upon hearing singles like the Brazilian Tropicalia influenced ‘Mercury’, the jangly, boyish ‘Bad Habits’, or the summery earworm ‘Sunshine’. This album soundtracked my summer and will remind me of holidays for years to come. But sentimentality aside, this album is full of sharp songwriting, charming vocals, and sunny, soulful instrumentals. 

Listen here.

JID – The Forever Story 

JID didn’t have to exceed expectations this much, but he did, clearly having something to prove, while painting a vivid autobiographical story about his adolescence and rise to fame. He really delivered with his good kid, m.A.A.d city esque statement – not to pit the two against each other, this one clearly has different influences, and was birthed from Southern soundscapes as opposed to West Coast. Songs like ‘Kody Blu 31’ show JID’s versatility and impressive vocal chops, whilst cuts like ‘Can’t Punk Me’ and ‘Crack Sandwich’ are absolutely ruthless, violent and explosive tracks. This one already sounds timeless, and will surely stand the test of time. 

Listen here.

Loyle Carner – hugo

An emotional battle with fatherhood, race, and identity, and a touching story that comes full circle, starting with fiery hatred, and ending with forgiveness. Every teaser for this album showed Loyle Carner evolving, from the Kwes Darko sample flips on ‘Hate’ with Loyle’s fire lit performance, the Madlib production and John Agard’s influence of ‘Georgetown’, and the poignant ‘Nobody Knows (Ladas Road)’ with gospel influence that calls back to ‘Isle Of Arran’, but with some of his best song writing yet. Loyle always knows how to pull a tearjerker out the bag, and this album’s full of them, but with his best verses yet, and most creative production choices.

Listen here.

BRIDGET’S PICKS

George Riley - Running in Waves

I was lucky enough to see George Riley earlier this year at World Island Festival in Leeds and was blown away by her personal take on soulful electronica. Seeing her perform and control live on an MPC, just took the experience to another level. Beat selection, a skill in its own right, Riley shines on each futuristic, trippy rhythm.

The West London singer infuses everyday sonics with contemporary flows. Sounds from her immediate vicinity standing as the soundtrack to her subtle musings. The track ‘Time’ is a real standout on this project, purely based on the instrumentation.

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Len - DEAD END

2022 has been such a great year for Stockwell’s finest, Len. After several hit singles, it only made sense to solidify his artistry with a mixtape. From the distinguished list of guest features to the high-energy, dynamic beats then to each infectious, witty hook: Len had the streets with this tape.

Another artist I had the pleasure of seeing live this year, his sell-out headline this summer renewed the already-existing love I had for each track on this project. Topping my Spotify Wrapped, the song quality is undeniable, and it is no wonder Len has fostered such a core fanbase.

Listen here.

Sudan Archives - Natural Brown Prom Queen

I decided to check out Sudan Archives on recommendation of the podcast, The Vinyl Collective. There was something about their description of a spellbinding musician who bends every genre to her will that already told me I’d be a fan.

I was surprised to see an album battle and consequently win against my short attention span, but across the eighteen tracks, Sudan Archives dabbles in rock, soulful and electronic elements all the while sealing the deal with her charismatic storytelling. Touching on the idea of home and coming of age. The enticing record demonstrates her full range beyond her debut.

Listen here.

NAT’S PICKS

JVCK JAMES - ON THE ROCKS

Jvck James has been a stable name in the UK’s R&B scene for quite some time. With hits like ‘No Drama’ and ‘FULL SPEED’, he hasn’t been shy of giving fans bangers with all the R&B feels. His latest mixtape ON THE ROCKS is a sultry four track project that showcases his finest artistry. From the outset of the mixtape, the intro track ‘Galaxy Swim’ sets the tone and brings  a very homely feel to the project. From its lyrics to the croon of his vocals, I think it frames the whole project so well and is one of my favourite songs on it. 

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 MINIKINGZ - ICONICY

When MINIKINGZ’ project was first teased, I was excited to see what they would come up with as their last outing under this moniker was ‘Mmm’ and if you haven’t heard it already, it’s a great tune. I know I wasn’t the only one who had been waiting to see what they had in store, and they surely didn’t disappoint. It’s clear to see how their friendship solidifies their creative relationship and the resulting mixtape ICONICY is the perfect example of this. Now including E-Whizz and Rxlls, the five produced a project that not only showcases their own unique styles and talent, but also includes some of the hottest UK talent.

Listen here.

 Ravyn Lenae – HYPNOS

There isn’t a voice like Ravyn Lenae’s, and with this album being the first one of hers I’ve ever listened to, I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to get into her. This album showcases her finest vocal ability, and her talent is honestly unmatched to what’s out there today. HYPNOS gives all the feels and features some great artists like Smino, Fousheé, as well as the amazing Steve Lacy, creating a well-rounded project that displays Ravyn Lenae’s ever-evolving artistry. An enjoyable project from start to finish, HYPNOS has easily been my favourite listen of the year.

Listen here.

TYRESE’S PICKS

Pip Millet -When Everything Is Better, I’ll Let You Know

The debut album from the Manchester singer/songwriter is an exceptional body of art, that can only be described as timeless and multifaceted as she flirts with R&B, Soul and Jazz elements to create her own subtly enchanting soundscape. There is a mixture of layered and minimalistic beats in the production that complements Pip's soulful vocals perfectly. Despite being in her twenties, over the course of 17 tracks, Pip proves her ability to write insightful lyrics and share the vulnerable sides of herself that bleed into the music often leaving listeners overwhelmed by the depth of emotion that she can conjure up. Not shying from the pain whether that is on songs or the interludes she thrives in the trauma on tracks like 'I Know', and gracefully endures heartbreak on ‘Only Love’ and ‘Heal’. On other tracks, she leans into her youth whilst she explores the thrills of young love on ‘Slow’.

Listen here.

Digga D - Noughty By Nature

Earlier in the year, it could be argued that Digga D really had the game in a headlock. 50 Cent-inspired songs ‘Pump 101’, ‘Hold It Down’ and ‘What Do You Reckon’ were released in anticipation of the album and represented the whole concept of the project. Paying homage to the music that influenced him such as the early US rap 2000s and UK grime group DVS. Digga keeps it inhouse by featuring Ladbroke Grove's AJ Tracey, as well as widening the scope with impressive features from B-Lovee, Maverick Sabre and Moneyybag Yo. The album is a narrative that charts the development of Digga from childhood to the present day, taking notes in detail of his experiences. As mentioned earlier, digging deep to find out what makes him him we hear a variety of beats ranging from grime, to drill, classic R&B samples that have their very own West London spin on them. It feels like the album is a reintroduction to Digga as an artist, as well as a person. We come away learning so much more.

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Little Simz - NO THANK YOU

People often say that music shouldn't be political, but on Little Simz' new album NO THANK YOU, the successor to her critically acclaimed Sometimes I Might Be an Introvert, we see a Little Simz who expertly looks at the wider social issues, critiquing them, as well as opening up about her own personal and professional problems. 'X' can be considered a call to arms, whilst the first track on the project 'Angels' acts as a sombre warning to young artists who are fresh in the industry. The production of the project is Simz’ most daring and experimental, the majority of the songs are 5-7 mins long yet the north Londoner has no problem immersing in her subtlety violent world. Her tome is tired, sometimes cynical, affectionate but always honest. NO THANK YOU feels as if Simz has finally come up to breathe.

Listen here.

MEGAN’S PICKS

Digga D - Noughty By Nature

Digga D released his third Album of his career this year, Noughty By Nature as a fellow 00s-born member, holds a special place just because of the title, however, this project has many more reasons to be in the top projects of the year. The project consists of a whopping 23 tracks with the majority being solo tracks. After the documentary being made on the rise of Digga D as well as the struggle of having a censored music career, seeing the hard work of the young international rapper is so much more meaningful. The most played track was the feature with ArrDee, ‘Wasted’, which was quite a surprising collaboration to most but proved to be a smash hit.

Listen here.

Knucks - ALPHA PLACE

Finally making his break into the heights of mainstream rap, Knucks released his project pushing him into the eyes and ears of the UK. ALPHA PLACE is by far one of the most talked about albums in the underground music scene, which in itself gives it a reason to be in the top projects of the year. Enlisting other beloved UK artists like: SL, Sainté, Stormzy and Millionz. Still being a fairly recent project, giving it some room for more growth into the new year. After finishing the year with a great win, it will be great to see what Knucks gets up to next year.

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Rema - Rave & Roses

International success Rema released his project in the early spring of March, Rave & Roses with a particular track ‘Calm Down’ going stupidly crazy across the globe due to social media. Embodying his African heritage, Rema reaches the hearts of fans from the UK, the US and across the majority of the African continent. With so many tracks being so enjoyable to listen to it had to be included as one of the best projects of the year. Featuring popular UK rapper AJ Tracy with the track ‘FYN’ Rema broadened his fan base to the UK as well as the US R&B royal Chris Brown on the track ‘Time N Affection’.

Listen here.

LOUIS’ PICKS

Gdup - 2 pack

If you follow me on socials or read my articles - I always use my platform to champion Gdup and Cityboymoe. The vision both these artists have, not to mention the way they execute it musically, is one I’ve bought into since both their first songs. Gdup’s two song E.P. 2 pack was another step on the road to the worldwide recognition they are destined to receive. Substance is something I generally require from my listening and Gdup provided that in abundance whilst also making me bop my head and feel like that guy wherever I go.  

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Nafe Smallz - Legacy

When it comes to production - this right here is the one. Special shoutout to Lucid Productions  whose tracks on this album were mind-blowing. ‘Dimensions of Waterfalls’ in particular, is an exhibit of the talent we have in this country. Nafe’s rapping performance on this album also felt like a boy to man moment. From first listening to him on his Fire in the Booth many moons ago - I’ve been waiting for Nafe to show the world a body of work that would represent his talent. Legacy was exactly that. Mature, layered, melodic, it really felt as if Nafe was in his element with this album.  

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Gunna - DS4EVER

Gunna. Wunna. Gunna Wunna. DS4EVER had to be on here. What an album. Similar to Nafe I’d been waiting for Gunna to drop a body of work that really showed off his talents and had staying power. This album got a lot of attention in popular culture due to the marketing genius behind it, but the actual music was so strong. ‘Living Wild’, ‘Private Island’, ‘So Far Ahead’, ‘Life of Sin’ are just a few songs that have been on repeat all year. You know the album is special when there’s a Drake feature and it’s one of the songs that gets the least love.

Listen here.