New Music Friday Roundup: Iyla, Sasha Keable, and More

Last Friday was a gift for R&B lovers, with a slate of new releases from both established veterans and rising stars. From full-length albums to tightly-crafted EPs, the new drops provided a rich and varied soundscape to carry us through the weekend. Here are four essential projects that you need to add to your rotation.

First up is the highly anticipated sophomore album from Iyla, "WEEPING ANGEL". The 13-track project is a culmination of a series of singles the Los Angeles native has been steadily releasing since last October. Iyla has been one of the most consistent and creative forces in the genre for years—many of us here first became fans after hearing her incredible 2020 track "Cash Rules" featuring Method Man. On this new album, she continues to showcase her unique artistic vision, making it a must-listen.

Riding the wave of her massively successful NPR Tiny Desk performance from earlier this month, Sasha Keable delivers her new EP, "act right". Fans who were captivated by her live set will be thrilled to find previously unreleased gems that she performed, such as "can't stop." While the entire EP is a stunning showcase of her soulful voice and songwriting, the standout for us is "move it along" featuring the multi-talented Leon Thomas. There's a certain quality to the sound on this track that resonates deeply, highlighting the incredible chemistry between the two artists.

Next, we have the phenomenal 14-track album "CRYSALIS" from Jenevieve. To put it simply, this project has zero skips. Jenevieve masterfully crafts a sound that pulls from the best of 80s R&B, built on a foundation of solid bass lines and lush instrumentation. Her voice works flawlessly over this production, gliding over every beat with an effortless grace. In a week full of strong releases, CHRYSALIS stands out as an exceptionally polished and captivating body of work.

Finally, proving he hasn't lost a single step, the legendary Craig David is back with a new album, "Commitment". This release is made even more impressive by the fact that it comes just one week after his Rain EP. The 13-track project continues the modern, polished vibe of the EP, further showcasing his ability to evolve while staying true to his signature style. It’s a testament to his incredible work ethic and enduring talent.

Overall, it was a fantastic week for new music. These releases provide something for every type of R&B fan, from the nostalgic to the contemporary, more than satisfying the palate of anyone looking for their next favorite song.