Here Are All The New Albums You Need To Hear This Week

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The releases this week, the last to come out on a Tuesday, are ones you’re going to want to crank to 11. Refused return with their first album in 17 years, Meek Mill is ready to explode on his first release since his quick stint in jail, and Miguel has a sultry new record designed for the sexiest of times.

That’s not even including new projects from Vince Staples, London O’Connor, Neil Young, and more. These are the albums you need to hear this week.

Miguel, Wildheart

2012’s Kaleidoscope Dream was the culmination of all the hard work that Miguel had been putting in for years. The Grammy-nominated work was a mix of soul, rock, and sweaty sexiness that left listeners only wanting more. Wildheart doubles down on this formula, almost daring you not to blush. “Coffee” and “NWA” both test those waters fairly well, and the album in full is a funky, carnal playground. It’s probably best to not listen to this album alone.

Meek Mill, Dreams Worth More Than Money

Following his stay in prison for violating his probation, Meek Mill has been hard at work on his sophomore album. While fire street singles “B Boy” and “Monster” may not have made the final cut, the finished product is a well-crafted cohesive thought, rather than a mixtape of hot songs. “Check” is a clear standout, as is the duet with his current better half Nicki Minaj in “All Eyes On You.”

Refused, Freedom

After 17 years, the punks are back and still with something to shout about. Refused return on Freedom with all of the urgency of The Shape Of Punk To Come, but clearly with an elder viewpoint. When they shout “Nothing has changed,” on the opener “Elektra” that’s partially true. The injustices may still be around, but Refused are a bit more weathered, a bit more seasoned, and not just offering the same old thing. It’s good to have them back.

Here are the rest of the albums being released this week:

Vince Staples – Summertime ’06
Bilal – In Another Life
Mutoid Man – Bleeder
Neil Young – The Monsanto Years
London O’Connor – O∆
Alden Penner – Canada In Space EP
Joy Williams – VENUS
The Internet – Ego Death
August Burns Red – Found In Far Away Places
Matt Pond PA – The State Of Gold
Bassnectar – Into The Sun