In no particular order.
UK Grim – Sleaford Mods
The self-described electronic munt minimalist punk-hop duo return with another collection of abrasive anthems for the British working class. The duo’s brash sonic sarcasm and politically charged verse serve up another dose of surprisingly danceable noise.
Sunrise Bang Ur Head Against the Wall – Nia Archives
Nia Archives has quickly ascended the ranks of the UK Drum and Bass scene in recent years, her latest EP Surprise Bang Ur Head Against the Wall being a prime exhibit why. The 23-year-old’s characteristic breakbeats and skilfully syncopated sampling is further integrated with RnB flavours and soulful vocals.
10,000 gecs – 100 gecs
The duo's characteristically absurd hyperpop is driven to such fervour that this album will catch the typical listener off guard. But scarcely is music so enjoyable for those wanting to let loose and embrace an incongruous collection of familiar melodies set against spoofy and liberating instrumentals.
I Am the River, The River is Me – Jen Cloher
Local legend singer-songwriter Jen Cloher returns, after her self-titled 2017 release cemented her dexterous lyricism as a hallmark of the Melbourne music scene. I am the River, The River is Me yields an intriguing exploration of lost ties with country and indigeneity—formidable with its bilingual verse.
Ugly – slowthai
Slowthai has subdued his grime roots in favour of a noisy alternative rock palette, in a controversial move for his loyal listenership. Ugly proves his artistry won’t be confined to his angsty beginnings and offers a more emotionally driven, sonically diverse collection of tracks.
Radial Gate – Sluice
Justin Morris’ second album under the Sluice moniker offers a unique variation on the North Americana country sound. Though initially Morris’ archetypally-Americana choruses may feel reiterant in their resolving movements, his intimate and intricately hued lyricism craft a formidable narrative for the listener to interrogate, set against accordions and guitars that conjure a nostalgia in his favour. A precious oddball to keep in mind.
the record – boygenius
A big day for Dr Martens wearers and purple hair adorners worldwide. Bridgers, Dacus and Baker return with another helping of homogeneous indie pop sadness. Most will know what to expect with this one, and the trio stay true to their trusted soft vocals and familiar melodies, weaving a sonically harmonious collection of tracks sure to please. See Fodder team member Chelsea Daniels’ March Top 10 write up of lead single ‘$20’.
‘Take the World Apart’ – Yusuf / Cat Stevens
The folk legend of our parents presents a distinctly cheery, wholesome folk tune, unmistakably sung with the comfort of one of the greats. As if it were made for those sepia-tinted singalong memories for children and grandparents to share, ‘Take the World Apart’ is a no-frills break from it all.
‘No Harm Done’ – The Slingers (ft. Juice Webster)
A funky turn for the beer-soaked rockers, perhaps marking a new avenue for the lovable ‘motel pop’ larrikins, who over the past six years have built a strong domestic following through a relentless touring schedule. The Melbourne boys cement their place on the hallowed Flightless Records roster, in a record highly recommended to those with alternative sympathies looking to get into the local music scene.
Praise a Lord Who Chews But Which Does Not Consume; (Or Simply, Hot Between Worlds) – Yves Tumor
In one of the more ground-breaking releases of the month, Yves Tumor presents a genre-androgynous work, amalgamating intricate soundscapes into a futuristic Baroque work that has earned him comparisons to the likes of Prince and Grace Jones. For lovers of Bjork and Frank Ocean alike.
Listen to the full playlist on Spotify: