The Best Vinyl Releases Of October 2024

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Derrick Rossignol

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 month 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 October below.

Weezer — Blue Album 30th Anniversary Edition

Geffen/UMe

Weezer is celebrating three decades of their iconic debut album this year, and they’re doing it big. A new anniversary reissue of the album is packed with goodies, including newly released archival recordings, all in a massive box set that has four LPs, a 10-inch vinyl, and a 7-inch vinyl. Many of the formats, including the box set wrapped in a sweater and the zoetrope edition have sold out already sold out, but the half-speed remaster is still available for pre-order online, or you can head to your local record store starting on 11/1 to see what they have.

Get it here.

Utah Saints — Utah Saints (Reissue)

Utah Saints

Utah Saints, pioneers in the UK electronic scene, released their self-titled debut album 30 years ago now, so they’re giving it a big, fancy reissue to mark the occasion. The rerelease has been remastered and extended with rare cuts and remixes from folks like David Morales, CJ Bolland, and Andrew Weatherall, all housed in “special limited edition mirror board packaging.”

Get it here.

Jimmy Eat World — Futures: Phoenix Sessions and Surviving: Phoenix Sessions

Exotic Location Recordings

Jimmy Eat World performed their classic album Futures in full earlier this month, and that’s because the album just turned 20 years old. The group has also unveiled an anniversary vinyl in honor of the project (and of Surviving), which is taken from the band’s 2021 livestream event, during which they played the album.

Get it here.

Girls — Album (Reissue); Father, Son, Holy Ghost (Reissue); and Broken Dreams Club (Reissue)

True Panther Records

Girls had a strong run from 2007 to 2012, and now that era is being immortalized: They released two albums — Album and Father, Song, Holy Ghost — and an EP — Broken Dreams Club— and they’ve all gotten vinyl reissues. This is the first time the albums have been pressed since their initial releases. And, if you want to see what Christopher Owens is up to now, he just dropped his latest, I Wanna Run Barefoot Through Your Hair, which is also available on vinyl now.

Get it here.

MF DOOM — MM..FOOD (20th Anniversary Edition)

Rhymesayers Entertainment

MF DOOM’s legacy continues to grow (even, unintentionally, in the realm of popcorn buckets), and part of that legacy, 2004’s MM..FOOD, is getting some love on its 20th anniversary. The new anniversary edition, available in vinyl and digital editions, comes with new artwork by Sam Rodriguez.

Get it here.

Green Day — American Idiot (20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition)

Green Day

American Idiot was a massive album back in its day… era-defining, even. That was somehow 20 years ago now, and Green Day is giving the album the love it deserves with a significant new reissue, an 8LP (and 2-Blu-ray) box set that has previously unreleased demos, rare B-sides, bonus songs, and unreleased live recordings.

Get it here.

Neil Young — Freedom (Reissue), Ragged Glory (Reissue), Weld (Reissue), and Arc (Reissue)

Reprise Records

Last year, Young re-released four beloved albums from the late ’80s and early ’90s as Official Release Series Volume 5, but now he has made all of those albums available independent of the collection. The box set marked the first time these albums were remastered for vinyl, so this is the best these albums have ever sounded in this medium.

Get it here.

George Michael — Careless Whisper EP

Sony Music

“Careless Whisper” is one of the more iconic songs ever, so fans are in for a treat with this one: It’s the song’s 40th anniversary, so there’s a new EP celebrating it, and it includes a previously unreleased live recording of the classic.

Get it here.

Bronski Beat — The Age Of Consent (40th Anniversary Edition

London Records

“Smalltown Boy” has been dubbed one of the best dance songs ever, and the album it comes from, Bronski Beat’s The Age Of Consent, is now 40 years old. There are a few new editions out now in light of this, including a 2LP version that also features the follow-up remix album, Hundreds & Thousands.

Get it here.

Jackson 5 — Third Album (Reissue)

Motown

Motown has been on a tear reissuing a bunch of albums from their classic catalog, and of course the Jackson 5 are part of the proceedings. Among the October offerings is Third Album, home of the iconic hit “I’ll Be There.” They also offered up new pressings of The Supremes’ A Bit Of Liverpool (Mono edition) and The Temptations’ Sky’s the Limit, continuing a run to get some of the best music ever created in fresh circulation.

Get it here.

Aphex Twin — Selected Ambient Works Volume II (Expanded Edition)

Warp Records

Aphex Twin is reissuing Selected Ambient Works Volume II in a number of new editions. The 4LP box set is the most impressive configuration, as it features four black LPs in polylined inner sleeves, a fold-out poster, and a “sticker sheet and booklet containing development sketches for the original artwork concept by designer Paul Nicholson,” all in “a hinged oak case with a bespoke chemical etched and eroded copper plate and engraved logo with paint infill.”

Get it here.

Creedence Clearwater Revival — Willy And The Poor Boys (Vinyl Me, Please Reissue)

CCR was hustling in 1969: Willy And The Poor Boys was the third and final album they released that year. It was a winner, too, featuring two of the band’s signature songs: “Fortunate Son” and “Down On The Corner.” The new Vinyl Me, Please edition is a winner, gorgeously pressed on “washboard marble” vinyl.

Get it here.



source https://uproxx.com/indie/best-vinyl-releases-of-october-2024/

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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.