Common-Speak My Piece

Windy City veteran Common came out with his tenth album Nobody's Smiling pretty recently and proved once again that he's one of the best in the game. While not his most impressive piece of work, the album is great and will be in my rotation for a long time to come. "Speak My Piece", even though it's probably the least lyrically conscience song on the album, it's still my favorite. The B.I.G. sample is incredible when mixed with the percussion, and Common puts up a flow that errs from the usual. Check out Nobody's Smiling, on iTunes now.

alt-J-Left Hand Free

English rockers alt-J drop their new single "Left Hand Free." alt-J experienced huge success back in 2012 with their debut album An Awesome Wave. Their sound combined some electronic production, awesome instrumentals, and completely incoherent vocals. When asked about their new single, alt-J said that "Left Hand Free" would be "too normal", as their label was concerned that their last release "Hunger of The Pines" was not a big enough single. While not as abstract as some of their other music, it's still far from normal, infused with their ridiculous lyrics and the "unique" organ solo. Look for alt-J's new album This Is All Yours September 22.

Case Arnold-Hope$ and Dream$

Tennessee rapper Case Arnold releases his new single "Hope$ and Dream$." Chiefus (Case Arnold's producer name) provides a minimal beat, giving himself an eerie backdrop to layout some bars. The song showcases Arnold's incredibly focused flow and impressive lyrics. "Hope$ and Dream$" will be featured on Case Arnold's upcoming project So(u)l Theory, due later this year.

Air Traffic Controller-The House

Air Traffic Controller was definitely my favorite discovery of the past year. Their sophomore album, Nordo, continues to be one of my favorites. The Boston band always uses intriguing lyrics, whether funny or heartfelt, and combines them with emotional instrumentals. "The House" is their first new song since 2012 and sounds more like a pop anthem then their usual alternative sound, but still reflects Dave Munro's skills as a songwriter by avoiding the senseless lyrics of most other bands today. "The House" will be available on iTunes July 29th and be sure to check out their superb album from 2012, Nordo.

August Alsina-Benediction (feat. Rick Ross)

It's been a great year for August Alsina. The impressive R&B artist has been getting some good feature work, was one of XXL's Freshmen, and released his major label debut album Testimony. The album has features from Pusha T, Jeezy, B.O.B., Trinidad James, and more. "Benediction" is a great example of the throwback 90's sound that Alsina is bringing back. He also taps Rick Ross for a solid, radio-clean verse.

Sango & Waldo-Until Then

Although both are incredibly talented, neither Sango nor Waldo would be where they are today without each other. Until Then marks the duo's third project together, following up last years spectacular NSDE/OUTSDE EP and 2012's Pick Your Own Poison. "Purple Heart" and "Kobe's Room" are still played regularly in my rotation. While significantly shorter than their last album, Until Then is still equally impressive. Though it lacks that one standout track it's clear that the two have created a much more focused and consistent sound, excellently working together to bring out each other's best skills as musicians.

Young The Giant-Islands (Ark Patrol Remix)

Ark Patrol decides to remix one of Young The Giant's older songs, "Islands", from their debut album. The Hawaiian producer strips the already eerie track of all instrumentals and adds his own backdrop. Using a beautiful combination of synth chords, AP carefully builds around the vocals of Sameer Gadhia. For more of Ark Patrols incredible work check out his Ambition EP.