MUSIC
“Konnakol” by Zayn
Mercury Records
It has been exactly 10 years since Zayn Malik became the first member of One Direction to release a solo record. His 2016 album “Mind of Mine” was a declaration of autonomy for the young performer, ambitious R&B tracks from a strong singer known for his breathy falsetto. He was playing to his strengths then, and has continued to do so in the decade that followed. On April 17, that arrives with the release of “Konnakol,” his fifth full-length record.
“Fidelity” by Yaya Bey
DRINK SUM WTR
Brooklyn-based R&B/soul singer-songwriter Yaya Bey is on a roll. Just last year, she released “do it afraid,” an album full of surprises: “Merlot and Grigio” featured Bajan dancehall artist Father Philis, the dance-y “Dream Girl” had echoes of Prince and “Raisins” was jazzy. That sense of experimentation is also found on “Fidelity,” out April 17. It’s a cathartic collection; an expression of grief and love following the death of her father, the revered rapper, producer and Juicy Crew member Grand Daddy I.U.
“Ctrl Escape” by John Summit
Experts Only-Darkroom Records
He’s one of the biggest names on the planet to the contemporary electronic dance music fan in your life: The house superstar John Summit will release “Ctrl Escape” on April 17 via Experts Only and Darkroom Records. It’s an equal opportunity record, one for the ravers and those who prefer to watch Ultra Music Festival performances on YouTube from the comfort of their own living room, alike.
“Superbloom” by Jessie Ware
EMI / Universal
The English disco-pop singer Jessie Ware will release “Superbloom,” also on April 17. She’s as ready to soundtrack a late night on the dance floor as she’s ever been — like on the single “Ride,” which interpolates the theme from the 1966 spaghetti Western film “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” and melts into her sequined synths. “Come be my cowboy, baby, come, let’s ride,” she sings, more discotheque than honky-tonk. “You know I want you, I need you tonight, tonight.”