2022 has been a phenomenal year for music. Possibly one of the best years for music ever, great projects have continued to drop. Over halfway into the year, I thought now would be a good time to reflect on my favorite projects of the year so far.

1. learn 2 swim-Redveil

Utilizing smooth jazz and soul instrumentation, DMV rapper Redveil released what I believe to be his best album yet. This project sees the 18 year old rapper polish his already noteworthy lyricism, flow, and musical abilities to great heights on this album.
Favorite Song(s): diving board

2. Gemini Rights-Steve Lacy

Steve Lacy continues his streak of great music with his new release Gemini Rights. His great vocals can be heard across every track, coupling well with his great, self-produced instrumentation. The continuous narrative of a break-up spanning across the album help to make the project feel even more powerful, making it an album I constantly relisten to.

Favorite Song(s): Bad Habit, Static

3. Melt My Eyez See Your Future-Denzel Curry

The new project from Florida based rapper Denzel Curry is possibly his greatest yet. His clear and smooth production coupled with his introspective lyrics and heavy subject matter make this a great album.

Favorite Song(s): Walkin

4. 2 Alivë-Yeat

The first of his two projects released this year, the first major album release from LA rapper Yeat is an amazing record. His high energy intense beats help to make the record an entertaining listen, and his unique use of autotune to enhance his vocals along with his self-created slang help to make the album one of the best of the year.

Favorite Song(s): Poppin, Big tonka (feat. Lil Uzi Vert), Rollin, On tha linë

5. WASTELAND-Brent Faiyaz

Brent’s newest album sees him delve into a darker tone and style of production across the album and its deep cuts. Singles such as GRAVITY (FEAT. TYLER THE CREATOR) helped to create a great lead up to the impeccable album. His ecstasy-inducing vocals are at their peaks on this record, coupled with expert production from The Neptunes, Zack Bia, and others.

Favorite Song(s):  GRAVITY (FEAT. TYLER THE CREATOR), DEAD MAN WALKING