Author: Miranda

I am a senior in Political Science at NC State and lover of R&B, rap, international, and electronic.

Categories
New Album Review

IDDTFM EP Review

Allan Kingdom is a Canadian-born rapper and record producer most known for his forays into hiphop music, membership in Thestand4rd music group, and his feature on Kanye West’s hit, “All Day.” His last album, LINES, came out in 2017; and his newest project, the EP IDDTFM was released less than a week ago. With only four tracks, it’s one of his shorter works, but it packs a strong punch. The acronym IDDTFM stands for I Don’t Do This For Money, reflective of Allan Kingdom’s continued commitment to explore different sounds and follow his personal musical passions. 

The EP opens with the song “BLESSED,” initially released ahead of the EP as a single with a music video. The song is simple lyrically with a melody and vocals similar to his classic sound. The song reflects a little about Kingdom’s recent trip to Africa, which he reportedly took to strengthen his spirituality and reconnect himself with his musical passions. The song reminds me of the message of “Blessings” by Chance the Rapper – being grateful for what you have. The next song on the EP is “YERRRRR” which is really unique sonically and is more upbeat than the previous track. Kingdom’s vocal talents really come through on this track, in which he plays around with different pitches and flows. With references to pop culture, materialism, and family, this track is possibly the most impactful of the EP and is definitely the most catchy, personally. “GLOSSY – Gloss Gang” has a sound much more comparable to most top-100s hip-hop. The vocals on this song sound slightly autotuned but still esoteric, like an indie Travis Scott. The EP finishes with “BART” in which Kingdom opens by singing out I don’t do this for money…. This song is classic Peanut Butter Prince, reminiscent of past hits like “Wavey” and “Achilles”. One thing special about this track is the focus on Kingdom’s rap verses, paired with harmony-like vocals layered in between them. 

Overall, the EP is definitely one in a million. I have really appreciated Kingdom’s work since being introduced to him through his verse on Kanye’s “All Day,” and have loved his collaborations with some artists I like within Thestand4rd. I recommend these projects, as well as his album Northern Lights (2016). The new EP is worth mentioning as a great new addition to his discography. Let me know what you think! 

– Miranda 

Categories
Playlists

Friday Favorites (5/15)

Hey everyone, it’s that time of the week again! Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of old hiphop. I wanted to share some of the best tracks I’ve found to get you through the week, especially because I know that I (and many others) have just started summer classes, internships, and work. There’s nothing like chill, old-style rap artists to give you some inspiration! 

One Beer – MF Doom 

The flow on this song is so smooth, paired with the high-pitched background vocals and beat makes for such a funky and cool song. I really recommend MF Doom as an artist in general but especially their 2004 album MM…FOOD, which has so many instant classics. 

Fancy Clown (ft. Viktor Vaughn) – Madvillain 

This song comes from one of my favorite-ever hiphop albums, Madvillainy. This project is a collaboration between two of my favorite artists, previously mentioned MF Doom and Madlib. This is my absolute favorite song from Madvillainy and I definitely recommend the album as a whole. 

Life is Better (ft. Norah Jones) – Q-Tip 

This duo has created one of my favorite songs in the world. This combination of Q-Tip’s unique flow and Norah Jones’ soft voice creates a beautiful love song with smooth vocals and a catchy beat. The music video is also really cool, check it out.  

Wavey (ft. Spooky Black) – Allan Kingdom 

I really love Allan Kingdom as an artist because his voice is interesting and he plays around so much with his pitch and changes his flows up seamlessly. This song has been a favorite of mine since high school, but I could honestly recommend anything he’s worked on. 

Hope you all enjoyed, let me know your favorite hiphop artists! 

– Miranda 

Categories
New Album Review

how i’m feeling now Album Review

My favorites: forever, 7 years, c2.0

Listen if you like: Grimes, 100 gecs, Allie X

Since Charli XCX’s appearance on 100 gecs’ “ringtone” remix, I’ve been excited to hear this new project of hers. The album, how i’m feeling now, is categorized by “inventive” or “experiential” pop and reflects Charli’s feelings relating to the current pandemic. She created the album and its related media in entirety during self-isolation with the tools she had on hand. Charli has also attempted to involve fans as much as possible, creating interactive Zoom calls, reaching out for advice, and even putting together fan-made clips for the music video of one of the album’s singles, “forever”. 

The album is quite experimental, a transformation from the usual pop melodies associated with the singer. how i’m feeling now opens with “pink diamond,” which perfectly exemplifies the wild, chaotic sound evolution of Charli XCX from her previous discography. However, she continues the alluring pop lyricism and a killer hook in the whole tracklist, which appeals to the ear. She brings the different musical aspects together beautifully, mixing mainstream and experimental sound. This new album also reflects a display of complex emotions reflecting the anxiety which is burdening our world right now. The tracklist includes songs which focus on her current relationship as well as ones highlighting the uncertainty and bizarreness of self-isolation. 

I think this is one of Charli XCX’s best works so far and have really enjoyed listening to it today; definitely would recommend checking it out especially if you like experimental pop.

– Miranda 

Categories
New Album Review

Making A Door Less Open Review

My favorites: Can’t Cool Me Down, Martin, Deadlines (Thoughtful) 

Listen if you like: Pixies, The Microphones, LCD Soundsystem

The album, Making A Door Less Open, is Car Seat Headrest’s newest musical project released May 1st. It is the first new music they have released in a few years, and has been long-awaited by indie fans. This new album is synth-heavy and widely experimental, to me it seems heavily influenced by 70’s electronic rock bands. Car Seat Headrest has definitely evolved from where it began, as a solo project of Will Toledo created in 2010. This album has pushed past the lo-fi alternative/indie sound of their past albums into a more electronic, developed sound. Making A Door Less Open is sonically appealing as it intricately meshes gravelly vocals and synth electronics into something truly distinctive.

I found no clear narrative or pattern throughout the album, though a lot of it focuses on future plans, fame, and commercialism. The songs generally seem scrambled throughout the tracklist without thought, though the chaos somehow fits all the expectations I had for the album. In the almost-punk electro melody of Hollywood, Toledo yells out “Hollywood makes me wanna puke.” On one of the more acoustic-styled tracks, Life Worth Missing, he sings out: “I’m coming up short in a life worth nothing.” It’s a clear rebellion against consumerism, money, and all the other problems infecting society; though every song has a slightly varied melody and style. 

Though I don’t think this is the best album by Car Seat Headrest, I really appreciate the direction Will and the other members are taking to evolve their sound and try new things, especially because I heavily enjoy the synth/electronic sounds. I hope that this project leads to new and better albums in the future by CSH, and hope you enjoyed my review of the album.

– Miranda 

Categories
Music News and Interviews

COVID-19 and Musical Experiences

The current situation revolving around the Coronavirus global pandemic has led to many societal changes including operational changes for school and work, recreation, and entertainment. This has, of course, translated into the world of music as well. With most states including North Carolina still under stay-at-home orders, musical experiences like concerts are obviously no longer possible. Many artists have used this time to find creative solutions to reach their fans, and music lovers across the world have found ways to continue sharing and enjoying music together, even while under self-quarantine. 

Concerts and Livestreams 

So many musicians and groups have hosted concerts through broadcasts. This time of uncertainty has bred so much creativity and expression, like the unlikely combination which led to Travis Scott’s Fortnite concert. Groups like 88Rising have hosted global livestreams with performers sharing a concert experience from their homes or studios. This is such a good way to bond with others. My friends and I hosted a Zoom viewing of the 88Rising livestream and watched it together. The best part of these online experiences is that they can not only be shared with friends, they are also free! There is so much more accessibility – anyone with internet access can join these online livestreams and see musicians they love performing. Definitely check your favorite artists’ pages for updates, as I have seen a lot attempting to reach their supporters in this way. 

Listening Parties 

Listening parties are a great way for fans to connect based on their shared love of an artist, or for friends to come together and talk about new releases or old favorites. Music is something that allows us to beautifully connect together even from across the world. I have attended a few listening parties since quarantine, and it’s amazing to share the experience of a first-time listen or discuss an old classic with strangers or friends. For example, I joined a listening party for Lorde’s album Melodrama with members of a music-related Facebook group I’m a part of. We were all able to join a Discord server and share an experience, reliving the album and having an emotional rollercoaster in the presence of others. I have also listened to a few new releases with groups of my friends using Zoom or FaceTime. I highly recommend seeking these types of opportunities if possible, and organizing them if you can. It is such a unique way to get connected to the people around you especially because we all need a little extra connection during quarantine. 

And More… 

There are other ways of having shared musical experiences. You can check out my blog post about Spotify’s new Listening Together feature, which is a great way to find new music curated by musicians you like. A lot of artists have released singles or small projects on their platforms in response to being stuck at home. I’m also curious to hear about any other ways you all are staying connected musically, so feel free to comment! 

– Miranda

Categories
Music News and Interviews

The Best Female Rap Artists

I am a big fan of music created by and for women, and I find that female rappers best embody the strength and lived experience that women share and can relate to. I decided to compile a (condensed) list of my favorites, and a little about their individual contributions to music. 

  1. Ms. Lauryn Hill 

Lauryn Hill is honestly one of my very favorite artists in general, and her pure talent as a rapper emphasizes the breadth of her musical abilities, among all of them. Hill has had such an impactful career. She was extremely successful as a member of The Fugees, and her solo album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is one of the most empowering and influential albums of all time. She is skilled in rap and is one of the few artists able to casually blend it in and out of her songs seamlessly. Lauryn Hill has influenced an entire generation of young artists and will continue to do so as her legacy continues. 

  1. Young M.A. 

Young M.A. is possibly one of the hardest female rappers alive. She has a voice and flow rivaling any famed rapper and has gained prominence based on her amazing performances, including performing alongside 21 Savage and opening for Beyonce’s tour. Young M.A. is an inspiration as an artist: she has used her platform to share about her background openly and has done so seemingly effortlessly.  

  1. Doja Cat

Doja Cat started creating really unique raps unlike any other artists at the time in 2014 with her Purrr! EP, and I have been a big fan since. Although Doja Cat is mostly now known for her hit songs that have taken over TikTok, she truly has raw musical talent and is able to rap with incredible speed and clarity, even live. She is an impressive musician and a strong figure especially for young women, as she advocates for self-acceptance and empowerment. I can see her influencing the world of pop-rap in the future, more than she already has. 

  1. Megan Thee Stallion 

Not only has Megan Thee Stallion basically taken over the rap scene, she is truly an icon and inspiration. As a liberated woman with empowering, sexy lyricism and effortless flow; she is also balancing being a student in college. Megan has impacted rap artists and has introduced features by other prominent artists. I really look forward to her growth as an artist, and definitely think she is one of the most improved artists this year. 

  1. Honorable Mentions 

I definitely can’t list all of the most influential or best female rappers in one short list, and I want to keep this post short and sweet. I also really adore the following women and think they are incredible artists, all worth checking out: Flo Milli, Kari Faux, City Girls, Saweetie, Tierra Whack, and Kash Doll. 

Hope you guys enjoyed, let me know what you think! 

– Miranda 

Categories
DJ Highlights

TV Soundtracks

WKNC 88.1 blog

Though I am not an avid TV person, I can really get into shows that have great soundtracks. I’ll share some of my favorites below.

Atlanta

If you weren’t aware, the show Atlanta is created by and starring Donald Glover, aka popular musician Childish Gambino. The show mainly features songs by hit hip-hop artists, but also contains a lot of lesser-known gems, and there is a blend of genres within the tracklist. I especially love the songs they chose for the soundtrack by The Pharcyde, King Krule, and Death Grips. Really an interesting mix!

Insecure

I’ll be honest, I have actually not seen this show. Spotify recommended the playlist and it is basically all I listen to besides new releases. It includes artists I love like Blood Orange, Sampha, The Internet, and so many more. Again, a lot of it is top-200 music, but there are definitely some hidden gems.

Euphoria

This show by far has the best soundtrack. Watching it and listening to the playlist for it has introduced me to SO much new music, by artists I had never before heard of. It’s actually how I got first introduced to the icon, Megan Thee Stallion. The music on the show is really varied and enjoyable to listen to.

Twin Peaks 

The epitome of weird, ambient soundtracks comes from Twin Peaks. I adore the show itself and like to listen to its soundtrack while working or studying. Listening to it always takes me right back to the mysteries of the show.

The Stand 

Stephen King’s The Stand has a place in my heart because it’s one of the only King adaptations I feel is genuine to the story. The soundtrack to this show has a mix of music including truly beautiful piano melodies, bluegrass-style songs, and of course the iconic (Don’t Fear) The Reaper. All emotional and inspiring, and a perfect fit for the show.

– Miranda

Categories
Playlists

Friday Favorites (5/1)

Hi everyone, hope you’re all doing well despite everything going on these days! Here are some of the songs that have been inspiring for me 

Nightrider (ft. Yussef Dayes & Freddie Gibbs) – Tom Misch 

I love the jazziness of this song paired with verses of two artists I really like. Both Yussef Dayes and Freddie Gibbs have some of the most unique voices in hip-hop right now. I love this track and find it such a good one to drive around to. 

Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – (I Love You Baby) – Ms. Lauryn Hill 

This is one of my favorite songs of all time and also one of the best versions of this song there is. It’s a sweet, mushy love song but Lauryn brings a cool beat and gorgeous vocals to really set it over the top. 

Hngover – AG Club 

This new album from AG Club is really interesting, but this song in particular stood out to me. This song reminds me of a Chance song, but has a little more of an indie influence. I really liked it and recommend the album if you haven’t heard it yet. 

Poison (ft. Take A Daytrip, Obongjayar, Santi) – Octavian 

I’ve previously reviewed an Obongjayar for the blog, and I think was one of the best up-and-coming British rappers. This song reminds me of an EDM track and easily got stuck in my head. I really like it and think it’s a unique mix of British rap, electronic, and pop music. 

Wraith Pinned to the Mist and Other Games – of Montreal 

This was the song that first introduced me to of Montreal and I’ve gotten back into listening to their older music lately. I highly recommend it. This song and album really reminds me of something by Talking Heads and I just love the chill vibe it gives off. 

Hope you guys are having another great week while social distancing, and I’m wishing everyone good luck on their finals! Check out these songs and more on my Friday Favorites playlist on the WKNC Spotify account! 

– Miranda 

Categories
Playlists

30-Song Challenge

Almost all of my friends have been bombarding their Instagram stories with daily updates to their 30-Day Song Challenge. I love this challenge and thought it would be cool to try to list them out myself for you guys to check out. Let’s get into it! 

1 – A song you like with a color in the title 

Off White by Global Dan 

2 – A song you like with a number in the title 

9 (ft. SZA) by WILLOW

3 – A song that reminds you of summertime 

Marathon by Tennis

4 – A song that reminds you of someone you’d rather forget 

Without U by corbin  

5 – A song that needs to be played loud 

All Day by Kanye West 

6 – A song that makes you want to dance 

BOOGIE by BROCKHAMPTON

7 – A song to drive to 

Rapp Snitch Knishes by MF DOOM

8 – A song about drugs or alcohol 

High (ft. Danny Brown) by Freddie Gibbs 

9 – A song that makes you happy 

Wavey (ft. Spooky Black) by Allan Kingdom 

10 – A song that makes you sad 

Fourth of July by Sufjan Stevens 

11 – A song you never get tired of 

Sleepyhead by Passion Pit 

12 – A song from your preteen years 

19-2000 by Gorillaz

13 – A song you like from the 70’s 

Cecilia by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles  

14 – A song you’d love to be played at your wedding 

lovers’ carvings by Bibio

15 – A song you like that’s a cover by another artist 

Cut Your Bangs by Girlpool 

16 – A song that’s a classic favorite 

You and Me by Penny & the Quarters

17 – A song you’d sing a duet with someone on karaoke 

Time After Time by Iron & Wine 

18 – A song from the year you were born 

Orange Moon by Erykah Badu 

19 – A song that makes you think about life 

Liability by Lorde 

20 – A song that has many meanings to you 

This Is Home by Cavetown 

21 – A song you like with a person’s name in the title 

Bobby by (Sandy) Alex G 

22 – A song that moves you forward 

Sad Machine by Porter Robinson 

23 – A song you think everybody should listen to 

Mama by Annette Pointdexter & Pieces of Peace

24 – A song by a band you wish were still together 

Cemetery Drive by My Chemical Romance 

25 – A song you like by an artist no longer living 

Stay by Mac Miller

26 – A song that makes you want to fall in love 

Real Thing ft. SZA by A$AP Ferg 

27 – A song that breaks your heart 

You Don’t Know How Lucky You Are by Keaton Henson 

28 – A song written by an artist whose voice you love 

Tell Him by Lauryn Hill

29 – A song you remember from your childhood 

And She Was by Talking Heads

30 – A song that reminds you of yourself 

My Girls by Animal Collective 

I had a great time putting this list together and tried to include multiple genres and a variety of different artists. Hope you enjoyed, and would love to hear your 30 songs! 

– Miranda

Categories
Playlists

Spotify’s Listening Together Playlists

One thing that I’ve struggled with during quarantine is how to stay connected to the world around me even though I’m stuck in my apartment. It’s hard to stay inside all the time, wondering about the outside world with almost all news and media being focused solely on the pandemic. 

That’s why I’ve been loving Spotify’s new “Listening Together” playlists. Musicians across different genres have curated playlists for staying at home. Each playlist has a theme and includes a short video by the musician who created it. I think Spotify took initiative to create something that can nudge individuals to stay at home and healthy while connecting all music listeners together. 

My favorite playlists right now are Normani’s Working Out Together playlist and Lil Yachty’s Gaming Together playlist. Working out at home is such a challenge for me especially because I am used to being able to put in headphones and have a jam session while at the gym. It’s much harder to get motivated when my bed is right next to my workout space, because it reminds me I’d much rather be sleeping. That’s why I think this playlist is awesome, it’s filled with upbeat pop and EDM that gives me the drive to complete a good workout. Plus, there’s something so cool about a playlist curated by a musician I love and am inspired by. Like, if Normani loves working out to these songs, I can too. I am also a really big fan of Lil Yachty’s gaming playlist. In his video he says his playlist is “kind of different, but trust the process.” I totally agree with that. I was surprised to see that he included a wide breadth of different genres and musicians. I adore the inclusion of so many Solange songs because (I have likely mentioned prior) she is one of my favorite artists in the world. There are also some surprises on the tracklist, like Ariel Pink and The Art Of Noise, which I never would’ve expected to be on a playlist made by Lil Yachty. I have been listening to this whole playlist nonstop while playing Minecraft and Sims, and I have to say that I now trust the process. 

“Listening Together” has helped me feel less alone while social distancing by reminding me that the artists I love are also going through the same thing. I’ve also been able to find some great new music through this already. I can’t wait for what comes next to this segment and I hope I’ve inspired you to give it a try! 

Looking for something else new? Check out WKNC’s Spotify account, and see if you can spot my Friday Favorites playlist! 

– Miranda