You hit play, and immediately, the atmosphere shifts. Boey does not waste time easing you into his new album, "The False Prince". The Ipoh-born, UK-based singer-songwriter grabs your attention by doing the exact opposite of what you expect. Instead of loud, aggressive anthems about the state of society, he offers a masterclass in quiet intensity. This 13-track record is a bold, beautiful exploration of modern...

The Nigerian Afrobeat artist Froshdada turns vintage rhythm, street confidence, and club heat into a single that hits fast and stays loud. "GAGA" comes in with the kind of confidence that makes you check your speakers first, then your shoulders second. Froshdada is not easing anyone into the groove. He arrives with Lagos energy already switched on, the bass moving like a crowded Friday night, the...