It hasn’t really been a very release-heavy year so far in terms of new music hitting the shelves, but this week sees a few legends and an industry vet releasing albums to satiate the need for new joints. After almost a decade of keeping the public waiting, Sade releases their new album Soldier of Love, while Gil Scott-Heron one-ups Sade by releasing his new album I’m New Here after more than 15 years since his last release. And Jaheim, who went missing from the scene for a minute, returns with his new one Another Round. Hit the jump to get a closer look at this week’s releases.
Sade - Soldier of Love (Epic Records)
We previewed it, we brought you an exclusive listening party for it and now, you can go out and buy it. Almost a decade since Sade released their last album Lovers Rock in 2000, the group is back with Soldier of Love, a 10-track effort that sees them bringing their unique, sultry sound back to the music scene. We’ve had some time to digest the album, and we’ve got to say that our favorite cuts on the jawn are “Babyfather” and the sensual “Skin.” Listen at our exclusive stream to get an advance taste before you go out and cop that. How could you not? This is a momentous occasion for lounges and clubs across the world!
Jaheim - Another Round (Atlantic Records)
Don’t lie, you’ve been anxiously awaiting new music from Jersey’s own Jaheim since he released his fourth album The Makings of Man in 2007. Now, he’s back with his fifth offering Another Round, an album that sees him bringing his weathered, velvet-wrapped vocals to 13 tracks of grown-up R&B. Be sure to watch the video for his Jadakiss-assisted video for “Ain’t Leavin Without You.” For the grown ‘n sexy.
Gil Scott-Heron - I’m New Here (XL Recordings)
This release is legendary. Not only did it come out of nowhere when Heron dropped the video for his track “Me and the Devil” last month, but it reintroduced the poet/musician to an audience that the majority of which hadn’t even heard of. With 15 tracks and a runtime shy of 30 minutes, I’m New Here pairs clashing electro-brushed instrumentation with Heron’s guttural vocals, making for an odd strain of blues that sounds like it was ripped straight from his mind. Do yourself a favor and educate yourself on this man by starting here and working your way backwards.
