Album review overview: Horace Andy & Jah Wobble, CocoMelon and more
Dozens of new albums arrive at Maxazine’s editorial staff every week. There are way too many to listen to them all, let alone review them. It ensures that too many albums are left behind. And that’s a shame. That is why today we post an overview of albums that arrive at the editors in short reviews.
Tank and the Bangas – The Heart, The Mind, The Soul
With “The Heart, The Mind, The Soul,” Tank and the Bangas deliver a masterful triptych that merges poetry, music, and emotion into a unique whole. The New Orleans-rooted band, led by the charismatic Tank, explores the deepest layers of human existence in this ambitious project. Each part of the album has its character, expertly crafted by various producers. James Poyser brings Tank’s velvety alto voice to life on “The Heart,” while Iman Omari’s dreamy beats create a more contemplative atmosphere on “The Mind.” Robert Glasper’s liberated jazzy production style on “The Soul” perfectly complements Tank’s free expression. Notably, the prominent role of poetry peaks in a collaboration with Jill Scott. Tank’s mission to elevate poetry as a musical genre succeeds brilliantly. Her personal growth and newfound self-confidence resonate in every track, resulting in an album that feels both intimate and universal. It’s an impressive journey through the human consciousness that leaves no listener untouched. (Elodie Renard) (8/10) (Verve Label Group)
Drug Church – Prude
The Albany-based band Drug Church delivers their fifth album, “Prude,” produced by Jon Markson. While its predecessor, “Hygiene” (2022), was praised for its layered guitar work and even made the UK charts, “Prude” is a disappointing step back. The singles “Demolition Man” and “Chow” promised the usual high-energy hardcore punk, but what initially impresses quickly becomes predictable. Patrick Kindlon’s vocals, which showed evolution on earlier releases, here regress into monotonous shouting that undermines the philosophical undertone of his lyrics rather than reinforcing it. The production tries to mask the musical limitations with a wall of sound, but it can’t hide the fact that the band is stuck in a creative rut. Where “Hygiene” still sounded refreshing, “Prude” clings to a formula that has outlived its expiration date. For fans of the genre, there are better alternatives. (Anton Dupont) (3/10) (Pure Noise Records)
Horace Andy & Jah Wobble – Timeless Roots
In an era where reggae is increasingly stripped down to soulless dancehall beats, the album “Timeless Roots” by veteran Horace Andy and bassist Jah Wobble feels like a refreshing musical homecoming. This fourteen-track work balances nostalgia with innovation, though it’s not without its caveats. The production has a somewhat artificial sheen, but it’s the surprising reggae interpretations of well-known hits that give the album its charm. Take, for example, their version of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition”—a completely new experience that, despite (or because of) the cannabis-inspired production, sounds surprisingly infectious. Even The Beatles’ “Come Together” gets a convincing reggae treatment that’s more than just a novelty cover. While the original compositions are somewhat overshadowed by the covers, ironically, this turns out to be the album’s saving grace. “Timeless Roots” doesn’t claim to be a groundbreaking masterpiece but fulfils its role perfectly as an accessible, festive record. It’s music that works well at a summer barbecue or garden party, where it will undoubtedly bring swaying hips and smiling faces. Although purists may raise an eyebrow at the occasionally slick production, “Timeless Roots” is, at its core, an enjoyable album that delivers exactly what it’s made for: uncomplicated listening pleasure with a reggae twist. Perfect for those looking for a lighthearted soundtrack for sunny days. (Jan Vranken) (6/10) (Cleopatra Records)
CocoMelon – Halloween Songs
Are you ready for a spooky yet fun musical party? CocoMelon, the wildly popular YouTube channel for toddlers and preschoolers, has released a cheerful Halloween album that’s perfect for the little ones! This cheerful album is full of catchy tunes that little ghosts and witches can sing along to right away. After two listens, you’ll know the songs by heart—that’s the magic of CocoMelon! The melodies are simple but oh-so effective, and before you know it, you’ll be dancing around the room with your little one. For parents who want to introduce their children to Halloween in a non-scary way, this album is ideal. The songs are cheerful and playful, without any truly scary elements. Perfect for making TikTok videos with your little ghoul! And let’s be honest—many parents, grandparents, and caretakers will secretly love these tunes too. There’s something infectious about this ‘silly’ children’s music that even adults can’t resist. Before you know it, you’ll be humming along while driving! So, do you want to get your child(ren) fully in the Halloween spirit? Then this album is a hit. Cheerful, accessible, and perfectly suited for the modern toddler who loves to dance and TikTok! (Jan Vranken) (7/10) (Moonbug Entertainment)
Bellakath – La Reina del Reggaeton Mexicano
From law student to self-crowned “Queen of Mexican Reggaeton,” Bellakath (Katherinne Huerta) has traded her law books for autotune and computer-generated beats. “La Reina del Reggaeton Mexicano” is exactly what you’d expect from a TikTok phenomenon. The production is clinically clean, with predictable dembow rhythms that seem straight out of a “Reggaeton for Dummies” manual. The vocals hover between childish flirting and exaggerated moaning—a combination as awkward as it sounds. Lyrically, the album sticks to the holy trinity: partying, alcohol, and shallow romance. It’s music that only works after a dangerous amount of tequila when your judgment is as clouded as the production is clear. As pure dance music, it does what it’s supposed to do. But if this is the new “Queen,” then the kingdom is very small. The album is like fast food: it fills you up but adds nothing of value. Highlight: the silences between the tracks. Low point: the rest. (Anton Dupont) (3/10) (La Maffia del Perreo)
