Hey friends, Saint Virgil here, welcoming you back to another deep dive into the music that might have slipped under your radar. Whether you’ve been with me since the beginning or you’re just tuning in for the first time, I’m excited to have you here. Today, we’re venturing into a selection of albums that defy expectations, with sounds that echo across continents and eras.
This week, I had a conversation with a friend who asked, "Why don’t you ever give bad reviews?" The answer is simple: if music doesn’t move me, it doesn’t stick with me, and I’m not wasting your time or mine writing about it.
As always, I’ve curated this list with nothing but love. And remember, even the “Warm Glow” albums are still top-tier—because why would I share anything I didn’t think was worth your time?
Before we jump in, here’s a quick breakdown of the Black Noise Rating System. You’ll see it below each review, giving you a sense of just how much I’m vibing with the album.
Black Noise Rating System
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Absolute Fire - modern classic, must listen
These albums are my top recommendations. They are modern classics that you absolutely must listen to.
🔥🔥🔥 High Heat - potential classic, highly suggested listen
These albums have the potential to become classics and are highly suggested listens for any fan of the genre.
🔥🔥 Warm Glow - for any fan of the genre
These albums are great for any fan of the genre and will definitely keep you warm and satisfied.
I only talk about albums I liked in this newsletter, so even the “Warm Glow” albums are still good. 😉
Mbongwana Star – From Kinshasa
Genre: Post-punk, electronic, Congolese rumba
Released: May 18, 2015
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube
Let’s kick things off with Mbongwana Star, a band out of Kinshasa that’s redefining Congolese music by fusing traditional rhythms with electronic and post-punk influences. From Kinshasa is an album that hits hard, with a raw energy that pulls you into the chaotic streets of the DRC’s capital. You’ll hear layers of percussion mixed with hypnotic synths, all wrapped up in vocals that feel both triumphant and defiant.
"Malukayi" is the standout here. The track features Konono Nº1 and their signature distorted mbira sound, which takes this song to another level. It’s infectious, unpredictable, and every listen feels like a journey. The entire album is a masterpiece of cross-cultural experimentation that you need to experience.
Standout Track: "Malukayi"
This track is everything—sharp, rhythmic, and bursting with life.
Black Noise Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Absolute Fire
This album is a certified classic in my books. You need to experience this one, preferably in one sitting, to truly appreciate its brilliance.
Sealionwoman – Nothing Will Grow in the Soil
Genre: Experimental folk, doom jazz
Released: September 13, 2024
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp
Sealionwoman’s Nothing Will Grow in the Soil feels like a walk through a fog-shrouded forest, with an eerie calm hanging in the air. Kitty Whitelaw’s voice drifts across Tye McGivern’s heavy, droning double bass, creating a haunting soundscape. There’s something ancient and mystical in this album, like the music is pulling from the roots of forgotten folklore.
"It Rides a Horse" stands out with its experimental nature, mixing in unexpected SWANA influences and dub undertones. This album is not for the faint of heart—it’s a slow burner that rewards patience with its dark, ethereal mood.
Standout Track: "It Rides a Horse"
A chilling, atmospheric track that stays with you long after it ends.
Black Noise Rating: 🔥🔥 Warm Glow
For fans of haunting, experimental folk, this one’s deeply rewarding if you give it the time it deserves.
Balla et Ses Balladins – Objectif Perfection
Genre: Mande music, Congolese rumba
Released: 1980
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube
This one’s close to my heart. Objectif Perfection by Balla et Ses Balladins is an essential album if you want to understand Guinea’s musical history. It’s not just about catchy tunes—this album represents cultural pride, resistance, and joy. The blend of Mande rhythms with Congolese rumba and jazz feels like a celebration of life and independence.
"Paulette" is an absolute highlight. At nearly eight minutes, it’s a masterpiece of rhythm and emotion that tugs at your heart while keeping your feet moving. If you haven’t experienced this album yet, you’re missing out.
Standout Track: "Paulette"
It’s emotional, rhythmic, and full of life—what more could you ask for? Also shout out to J Cole for sampling this song.
Black Noise Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Absolute Fire
This is one of my all-time favorite albums—timeless and deeply moving. A must-listen for any music lover.
Masayoshi Fujita – Migratory
Genre: Ambient, experimental
Released: September 6, 2024
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp
Masayoshi Fujita’s Migratory is a sonic meditation. After moving back to Japan, Fujita recorded this album in the forests of Hyōgo, and you can feel the nature and stillness in every note. His vibraphone and marimba playing is soft yet impactful, with gentle layers of sound that transport you to a place of calm introspection. It’s one of those albums that quietly pulls you into its world.
"Tower of Cloud" is a standout for its delicate interaction between synths and marimba, with both elements complementing each other in a peaceful, harmonious way. This is the kind of music you want to listen to when you’re searching for some quiet, reflective time.
Standout Track: "Tower of Cloud"
Light, airy, and deeply calming, this track is a breath of fresh air.
Black Noise Rating: 🔥🔥 Warm Glow
A soothing listen perfect for moments of solitude and reflection.
Ramy Essam – Resala Ela Magles El Amn
Genre: Rock
Released: June 23, 2017
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube
Ramy Essam’s Resala Ela Magles El Amn is rock with a revolutionary spirit. Known for his role in Egypt’s 2011 revolution, Essam channels that energy into this album. It’s raw, political, and powerful, blending traditional Middle Eastern sounds with hard rock. Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, the emotion in his voice is unmistakable.
"Dabora We Short We Cap" is an absolute standout, with sharp guitars and vocals that hit hard. This album feels urgent and necessary, a reminder of rock’s rebellious roots.
Standout Track: "Dabora We Short We Cap"
A powerful, driving rock anthem that’ll stay with you.
Black Noise Rating: 🔥🔥🔥 High Heat
A politically charged album that blends hard rock with cultural depth—definitely worth a listen.
Milk 'N' Cookies – Milk 'N' Cookies
Genre: Glam rock, power pop
Released: 1975 (Reissued)
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp
Take a trip back to the early '70s with Milk 'N' Cookies, a band that mixed glam rock with power pop before it was cool. Their self-titled album has all the catchy riffs and youthful swagger you’d expect from a band formed in the New York proto-punk scene. It’s cheeky, full of energy, and packed with sing-along moments.
"(Dee Dee You’re) Stuck on a Star" is the perfect opener—it’s fun, fast, and the kind of track you’ll have on repeat. The album brings a lighthearted feel that’ll make you nostalgic for rock’s golden age.
Standout Track: "(Dee Dee You’re) Stuck on a Star"
A fun, rebellious anthem that captures the spirit of '70s glam rock.
Black Noise Rating: 🔥🔥🔥 High Heat
A hidden gem of glam rock, this one is full of youthful energy and cheeky charm.
The Black Angels – Phosphene Dream
Genre: Psychedelic rock
Released: September 13, 2010
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube
The Black Angels are known for their dark, brooding take on psychedelic rock, and Phosphene Dream delivers exactly that. This album is a journey into the shadows of '60s-inspired psych rock, but with a modern edge that keeps things fresh. The vocals are haunting, and the melodies are tightly wound, with a controlled chaos that makes each song feel intense.
"Yellow Elevator" is where the album really shines. It feels like a swirling trip that builds and builds, pulling you deeper into its hypnotic vibe. If you’re into darker, moodier psych rock, this one’s for you.
Standout Track: "Yellow Elevator"
A mesmerizing track that pulls you in with its slow, hypnotic build.
Black Noise Rating: 🔥🔥 Warm Glow
A solid psych-rock record for fans of dark, moody vibes.
Dummy – Free Energy
Genre: Psych pop, shoegaze
Released: September 6, 2024
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp
Dummy’s Free Energy feels like a psychedelic journey through a strange, beautiful dream. The album mixes psych-pop, shoegaze, and electronic textures to create something that feels fresh yet familiar. Each track shifts in tone and texture, making the album feel like an ever-changing sonic landscape.
"Nine Clean Nails" is a standout, with its dreamy vocals and hypnotic rhythm. This track will have you hitting replay as soon as it’s over. If you’re a fan of experimental pop, this one’s for you.
Standout Track: "Nine Clean Nails"
Dreamy, hypnotic, and totally addictive, this track is a perfect example of the album’s experimental charm.
Black Noise Rating: 🔥🔥🔥 High Heat
A genre-blurring, dreamy psych-pop album that surprises at every turn.
Let’s Talk! What’s on your mind? Which of these albums are making their way into your playlist? Drop me a message or connect with me on social—I’m always up for music chats and hearing your recommendations.
That’s a wrap for this week! ❤️🔥 Thanks for reading Black Noise. ❤️🔥 If you enjoyed this volume, share it with a friend—or even an enemy! Good music might just turn them around. 😉
What’s been on your radar lately? Hit me up @st_vrgl—I’d love to hear your picks. Until next time, keep those speakers bumping and your ears open. This is Saint Virgil signing off. Stay noisy! 🤘
P.S. Don’t forget to check out the Substack playlist for tracks from previous volumes!
Some great recommendations, thanks. I’ve been listening to Migratory this week after getting the record on another recommendation. So beautiful, really calming but also exploratory and reflective.
I'll check out Dummy and probably some others, thanks