Future-HNDRXX: If you've ever wanted to know what a Luther Vandross record would sound like if it was filtered through a bunch of auto-tune, HNDRXX is the album for you. With sentimental lyrics about love, often upbeat R&B production and far more singing than rapping, this record is the complete antithesis of the grimy, somber trap rap that has driven all of Future's notable releases. Future's past thoughts on romance and monotone singing style makes HNDRXX's lovestruck crooner act a bit of a tough sell at times, but this is still a decent release that proves the 33-yeard old rapper can have some success outside of his established wheelhouse.
3/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Incredible 2.Lookin Exotic 3.My Collection
Within the Ruins-Halfway Human: Halfway Human is the record I've wanted Within the Ruins to make since I was first introduced to their brand of robot-esque deathcore on 2010's Invade. The introduction of clean vocals and traditional guitar solos to the fold takes the Massachusetts based-outfit's signature sound to dizzying new heights without sacrificing any of the spastic power that made their first four records enjoyable. The over-the-top technicality and clean production style will undoubtedly repulse some metalheads, but anyone that is down with frantic guitarwork, triggered drums and pummeling breakdowns should have a ton of fun with this record.
4/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Incomplete Harmony 2.Objective Reality 3.Bittersweet
Charli XCX-Number 1 Angel: If the perpetual sadness that comes with rooting for the Chicago Bears doesn't kill me, the spirit-breaking highs and lows of Charli XCX's music will. Number 1 Angel is yet another piece of cruel emotional torture from England's queen of untapped potential. As always, there are moments on Number 1 Angel ("ILY2", "Drugs","White Roses") where Charli displays a level of bubbly energy and hook-writing proficiency that's comparable to the best pop artists in the game right now (Ariana Grande, Tove Lo, Demi Lovato). Of course, these triumphs manage to be overshadowed by the rest of the records bland, forgettable dance/synthpop nature. There's no denying that Charli has all of the tools required to be an elite pop artist, she just doesn't seem to be able to unleash them consistently over the course of an entire project. Stay tuned later this year when I do a slight variation of this review for Charli's upcoming third studio album.
2.5/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.ILY2 2.Drugs 3.White Roses
Havok-Conformicide: The hostile political climate gave Havok the perfect opportunity to return their furious, teeth-kicking roots. Conformicide is an anti-government gospel that reminded me a lot of the pure venom that drove Overkill's early releases. While the aggression and instrumentation is impressive, the shaky production, bloated runtime (58 minutes) and underwhelming vocal performance from David Sanchez prevent Conformicide from being the shot of pure, unwavering adrenaline it was intended to be. Conformicide is a solid enough return to form for Havok after their failed attempt at writing more mid-paced material on 2013's Unnatural Selection, but it's nowhere near as memorable or headbang-worthy as their 2011 breakout album Time is Up.
3.5/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Dogmaniacal 2.Peace is in Pieces 3.Claiming Certainty
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