Carlton Hargro’s top 10 soul albums of 2014 in 140 characters or less
A ton of notable soul music was released in 2014, but here’s a look at 10 albums that stand above all the rest.
OK, let’s skip the typical intro formalities and just cut to the chase: A ton of notable soul music was released in 2014, but here are my picks (arranged in no particular order) for 10 albums that stand above all the rest, and my reasons for picking them, in 140 characters or less.
Lil’ John Roberts, The Heartbeat: The ATL-based drummer’s solo debut soared with legendary guests such as Robert Glasper, Musiq, Snarky Puppy, George Duke, and more.
Slakah the Beatchild, Soul Movement, Vol. 2: This vibey, beat-heavy album is a sonic ode to 1990s soul, but it’s modern enough to defy sounding dated.
D’Angelo & The Vanguard, Black Messiah: After a 14-year hiatus, the former neo-soul-er returns with a game-changing bag of tunes slathered in funk, rock, gospel — and more funk.
Dionne Farris and Charlie Hunter, DionneDionne: Dionne Farris goes the duet route again presenting beautiful, ultra-stripped down takes on Dionne Warwick classics and rarities.
Flying Lotus, You’re Dead!: The lauded keyboardist/producer shows off nearly 20 electronic/jazz/rap/etc. tracks that are short in duration but super-long in depth and spirit.
The Dangerfeel Newbies, Hariet: Drenched in house, hip-hop and more, this trio’s first album throws a spotlight on some of the A’s most underrated talents.
Brandon Williams, XII: Another star-studded lineup (Frank McComb, Jesse Boykins, Jean Baylor, etc.) drives this batch of chilled-out, jazz-fueled love songs.
Little Dragon, Nabuma Rubberband: Boasting a bevy of mid-tempo cuts and straight-up slow jams, this album was the Swedish synth quartet’s most soulful outing yet.
Avery*Sunshine, The SunRoom: This locally based singer/musician dug deep in the soul well, bringing listeners the year’s most thumping, gospel-tinged tunes.
Diggs Duke, The Upper Hand & Other Grand Illusions: Another year and another offbeat, jazz-flavored, and truly groundbreaking EP from this D.C.-dwelling vocalist and keyboardist.
BONUS TRACK: Moonchild, Please Rewind: OK, I tried to keep this list to a tight 10, but how could I leave off the soothing, super-cool second album from this rising L.A. trio?