The music industry continues to thrive, producing exceptional albums that captivate audiences worldwide. July 2023 has seen the release of several outstanding albums by artistes. These albums have garnered critical acclaim, achieved commercial success, and showcased the immense talent and evolution present in the music industry.
In this article, we will delve into the 10 best albums of July 2023, highlighting the artistes behind these musical masterpieces and the standout tracks of each album.
1. J Hus – Beautiful And Brutal Yard
J Hus released ‘My Baby’ on the 14th of July. The pre-released track on the album ‘Who Told You’ features Canadian musician Drake. The production of this album is top-notch, with a mix of vibrant instrumentals and subtle yet captivating melodies. J Hus’ distinctive and melodic delivery shines throughout, as he navigates between introspective verses and energetic choruses. This project should be on your playlist.
2. Kizz Daniel – Maverick
Kizz Daniel released ‘Maverick’, his fifth studio album, on the 28th of July. A project that houses 20 tracks with pre-released songs like the remix of ‘Cough’ which features Becky G, RTID, Shuperu, and the global hit – Buga.
Kizz Daniel showcases his growth as an artiste, combining infectious beats, heartfelt lyrics, and captivating melodies. With its diverse range of tracks, this album is a testament to Kizz Daniel’s versatility and ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience.
3. Adekunle Gold – Tequila Ever After
After months of anticipation, Adekunle Gold released ‘Tequila Ever After’ on the 28th of July. Ever since he dropped ‘Gold’ – his debut album, he continues to explore new sounds, and with this new project, Adekunle Gold demonstrated he is not scared of evolution, experimentation, and transitions.
It’s a vibrant and energetic album that blends elements of Afrobeat, dancehall, and R&B. With its catchy hooks and infectious melodies, especially on songs like ‘Party No Dey Stop’ and ‘Ogaranya’, this album is a testament to Adekunle Gold’s ability to create music that gets listeners on their feet.
4. Crayon – Trench to Triumph
The 13-track album – ‘Trenches To Triumph’ delivers a unique and captivating experience for the audience. As Crayon pours his heart and soul into every lyric and melody, the listener is drawn into a world of authenticity and vulnerability, where he shares his most profound thoughts and welcomes the listeners to his world, his story, and his journey to greatness.
The storyline of the album is based on ‘Grass To Grace’. Essentially, Crayon delivers and shows his ability to harmonize with others seamlessly.
5. Cheque – Chequemate
Although, ‘Chequemate’ isn’t an album; It’s a 6-tracked EP with solid tracks that showcases Cheque’s dexterity as an artiste who doubles as a singer and a rapper.
With its intelligent lyricism and skillful production, this album showcases Cheque’s prowess at creating captivating tunes. His collaboration with Fireboy on ‘Hustler’ is a hustler anthem for young people striving hard to make it out of the hood (read as trenches).
6. Bella Shmurda – DND
Bella Shmurda’s ‘DND’ EP is a melodic and emotive project that dropped in August that explores themes of love, vibes, and loneliness. With his sultry vocals and relatable lyrics, Bella Shmurda has created an album that resonates with listeners on a deep level.
7. Psycho YP – Osapa London
Psycho YP’s album displays his prowess as a rapper, showcasing his ability to create infectious flow. He explores Afrobeats, Amapiano, Trap, and Dancehall blends, exploring all the sounds without losing the touch of his artistry.
‘Settle Us’ with Odumodublvck is a groovy Amapiano track on the album. This project is indeed a must-listen for any music enthusiast.
8. Azanti – Heart Parts & Nostalgia (Deluxe)
Azanti’s ‘Heart Parts & Nostalgia (Deluxe)’ is an attempt to extend the sonic brilliance of the Album he dropped in 2022. For this Deluxe, Azanti shines brightly on the soulful and introspective masterpiece that showcases his smooth vocals and captivating songwriting. With his heartfelt lyrics and emotive melodies, Julie featuring The Cavemen is an outstanding track.
9. Lil Kesh – Rhythm and Tunes
Lil Kesh’s Rhythm and Tunes project is a blend of infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and captivating production. With his unique sound and ability to create music that resonates with listeners, Lil-Kesh cements his position as one of Nigeria’s top artistes and hit makers with the collaboration track – ‘Don’t Call Me’ that features Zinoleesky.
10. Laycon – ‘Bioba’
Laycon’s album ‘Bioba’ is a self-proclamation project that asserts him as a king. The productions, sequencing, flow of songwriting, and rap delivery is enthralling. It’s a testament to his status as one of Nigeria’s fast-rising rappers and singers turning lead into gold in the music scene. This project should be on your playlist.
