Listening to Amara Fe’s new album, "SHIFT," is a bit like finding a perfectly preserved suit of medieval armor that’s been custom-tailored by a high-fashion house. It is formidable, gleaming, and entirely without apology. Across the sprawling landscape of its 24 tracks, Fe builds a monument to self-belief so solid it could probably withstand a siege. There is no room for doubt in this...

Big O, an American hip hop producer, recording and mixing engineer, and DJ, has dished out this new album he calls “When It’s Not Said, But Done.” This album is a dedication to the art of starting over. It shows the artist's subtle choice to try out new sounds and break old habits. He wants to make something real, without having to make assurances or statements,...