The Best Vinyl Releases Of April 2023

on
vinyl
Uproxx

Anybody who thought the vinyl resurgence was just a fad was mistaken: The industry has experienced a legitimate revival. As a result, music fans are interested in physical media in ways they may not have if the decades-old medium hasn’t made a comeback. That doesn’t mean everybody is listening to just their parents’ old music, though. That’s part of it, sure, thanks to rereleases that present classic albums in new ways. A vital part of the renewed vinyl wave, though, is new projects being released as records, of which there are plenty.

Whatever you might be into, each April brings a new slew of vinyl releases that has something for everybody. Some stand out above the rest, naturally, so check out some of our favorite vinyl releases of April below.

Get it here.

Jai Paul — Leak 04-13 (Bait Ones)

jai paul vinyl
XL

It’s not often we hear much from Jai Paul, but he just played Coachella and he also has a fresh new vinyl release. It’s a pressing of Leak 04-13 (Bait Ones), the officially released version of Paul’s famously leaked set of demos from 2013. This is the first time the set has ever been made available on vinyl and only 3,000 copies were made available, so it’s a must-have for Jai Paul die-hards.

Get it here.

Warren Zevon — Excitable Boy (Reissue)

warren zevon vinyl
Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab

45 years ago, in 1978, the now-late Warren Zevon dropped what would become his signature album, Excitable Boy. For this reissue (which features classics like “Werewolves Of London” and the title track), the album was remastered from the original analog master tapes and pressed on 180g 45 RPM vinyl, making this edition an audiophile’s dream.

Get it here.

Rudimental — Home (10th Anniversary Reissue)

rudimental
Asylum/Atlantic/Black Butter

Rudimental is a beloved UK dance music institution now, but it all started with 2013’s Home. It’s been a decade since that debut album dropped, so now there’s a new anniversary edition that includes a number of new remixes made specially for this reissue.

Get it here.

The White Stripes — Elephant (Deluxe)

elephant
Third Man Records

Jack White and the folks at Third Man Records know their way around vinyl, so their new deluxe reissue of the White Stripes classic Elephant is one to behold. It’s pressed on beautiful clear, colored, smoky vinyl, which is home to beloved tunes like “Seven Nation Army” and “The Hardest Button To Button.”

Get it here.

Aesop Rock and Blockhead — Garbology Instrumentals and The Recycling Bin

garbology
Rhymesayers Entertainment

Aesop Rock and Blockhead have formed a strong partnership over the years, and now the rapper and producer are bringing a pair of their projects to vinyl for the first time. Garbology Instrumentals is an instrumental version (duh) of the pair’s 2021 album, while The Recycling Bin is a companion EP featuring Blockhead remixes of Aesop songs that Blockhead previously wasn’t involved with.

Get it here.

Love And Rockets — Earth, Sun, Moon (Reissue) and Love And Rockets (Reissue)

love rockets vinyl
Beggars Banquet/Big Time

’80s English rock group Love And Rockets (which rose from the ashes of Bauhaus) is in the midst of some catalogue reissues and April brought a pair of new ones. Both albums — Earth, Sun, Moon and the self-titled one — come on classic black vinyl and the latter includes their best-known song, the top-three hit “So Alive.”

Get Earth, Sun, Moon here. Get Love And Rockets here.

Violent Femmes — Violent Femmes (Reissue)

violent femmes vinyl
Craft Recordings

Record Store Day was this month and Craft Recordings came through with a number of reissues, including a new picture disc to mark the 40th anniversary of Violent Femmes’ self-titled album. Aside from being a gorgeous piece to look at, it features favorites like “Blister in the Sun” and “Please Do Not Go.”

Get it here.

Paul McCartney And Wings — Red Rose Speedway (50th Anniversary Reissue)

mccartney
Apple

Speaking of Record Store Day, Paul McCartney And Wings made the day count with a 50th anniversary rerelease of Red Rose Speedway. This edition will sound as good as possible thanks to the half-speed remastering treatment the LP received. This was the first Wings album to top the charts in the US, so if you don’t have any of the McCartney group in your vinyl library, this reissue is a good place to start.

Get it here.

GoldLink — At What Cost (Vinyl Me, Please Reissue)

goldlink
Vinyl Me, Please

At What Cost was a strong and well-received debut for GoldLink back in 2017. Vinyl Me, Please is celebrating the project in 2023 with a lovely new reissue, which is pressed on 2-LP orange and blue galaxy vinyl and comes with newly written listening notes.

Get it here.

Metallica — 72 Seasons

Metallica 72 Seasons
Blackened

Metallica have been at it for over 40 years now, and on their new album 72 Seasons, it really sounds like James Hetfield and company truly haven’t lost a step. All the new fans they gained after their Stranger Things sync last year are in for a treat with this exceptional LP.

Get it here.



source https://uproxx.com/music/best-vinyl-releases-april-2023/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.