DJ AB’s “YNS Cypher 2025” has swaggered into existence. Not a gentle arrival, mind you, but more the auditory equivalent of a conquering legion setting up a very loud, very confident camp. This isn't background hum for a Tuesday afternoon; it’s a full-colour, high-decibel assertion from the Northern Nigerian hip-hop vanguard, a yearly planting of the YNS flag. DJ AB, the central current, is...

Matt McKnzi stands out as a star in coming up with new ideas and evaluating himself. This new song of his, "Atlas," is a great mix of soul, hip-hop, and some heavenly sounds. And it shows how well he can mix different styles and still make music that makes you feel things. His unique style, a mix of neo-soul and energy R&B, is making waves in the...