Back catalogue: Hip Hop/R&B

Review: Scarred by a high-profile breakdown, Abel Tesfaye aka The Weekend has spent much of the last three years rebuilding his mental health - a process reflected in the introspective and surprisingly open lyrics at the heart of Hurry Up Tomorrow, his sixth studio album. Said to be the final part of a semi-autobiographical trilogy, the two-disc set is a dizzyingly varied and star-packed affair that confidently strides between squelchy synth-pop (Justice collaboration 'Wake Me Up'), thrillingly bass-heavy Baille funk (Anitta hook-up 'Sao Paolo'), attack-on-the-senses EDM-pop ('Until we're Skin & Bones'), heavily orchestrated slow jams (' Reflections Laughing' with Travis Scott and Florence and the Machine), head-nodding R&B ('Enjoy The Show' with Future), 80s pop revivalism ('Take Me Back To LA'), and shimmering analogue synthscapes (Giorgio Moroder collaboration 'Big Sleep').

Review: Vultures 1, Kanye West's collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign, is a refreshingly cohesive entry in West's catalog, showcasing his attention to refined, crisp production. Unlike his recent, more experimental releases, Vultures is polished and sonically unified, with beats that highlight Kanye's inventive sound design and Ty Dolla's smooth vocals. Tracks like 'Good (Don't Die)' nod to 808s & Heartbreak, delivering a nostalgic yet modern take on Kanye's signature introspection, while 'Carnival' pulses with rich textures, blending elements of Brazilian funk and industrial beats to create a hypnotic groove. Kanye's verses are more technically precise than ever, and though his lyrics are less personal, they maintain a certain energy that keeps the momentum alive. Ty Dolla's silky, gravelly tones are the perfect counterpoint, adding warmth and balance. From the bouncy 'Stars' to the club-ready 'Burn', the album is built on rhythms that are as intricate as they are accessible. Though more restrained in theme, Vultures achieves a polished, infectious sound with irresistible beats and thoughtful production, proving Kanye can still push boundaries while embracing a more mainstream appeal.

Review: Vanessa Williams' Survivor marks her return to music after a 15-year break, where she focused on acting and other ventures. In this album, Williams seamlessly blends the many facets of her career, from pop and r&b to jazz and theatre. The lead single, 'Legs (Keep Dancing)', is a bold, confident dance track that reflects her enduring energy, while the house-pop track 'Bop!' entertains her fanbase with cheeky humor and vibrant beats. The album's range includes pop standards like 'Junk Man' and the jazzy 'Zaz Zuh Zaz,' where Williams showcases her sultry, polished vocals. Her love for classic music shines, especially on 'Come Dance with Me' and 'Being Good Isn't Good Enough', where she brings an elegant, theatrical touch. With thoughtful production, Survivor revisits Vanessa Williams' signature sound while incorporating fresh elements. Despite its familiar themes, the title track carries a personal resonance, illustrating her journey and resilience. Williams' versatility and her ability to evolve while staying true to her roots, proving that she's still a commanding presence in music. This comeback reaffirms her as a talented performer across multiple genres.