Black Noise Volume 008

8 Essential Albums from My Endless Music Archive

Hey friends! 👋🏾 This week, I’ve been diving deep into my Notion listening list—yep, the one I started back in 2016 to catalog every single piece of music I’ve ever listened to. Crazy? Maybe. But it’s been my way of capturing the endless stream of sounds that fuel my life. Think of it as my personal musical archive, filled with everything from the obscure to the timeless.

Also, full disclosure: this list of albums might have been influenced by a 6-hour binge of What We Do in the Shadows. If you haven’t watched this show yet, consider this your new homework—it’s violently funny with absurdist humor and cultural references that hit just right. Seriously, "What We Do in the Shadows" deserves a spot on your watchlist.

Out of the 11 albums I revisited this week, I’ve handpicked 8 that really stood out. These are the records that resonated with me, and I’m excited to share them with you. Let’s dive in!

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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 😉

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Hako Yamasaki - Best Collection

Genre: Folk Pop
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube

Imagine sipping tea at sunset, wrapped in a warm blanket of nostalgia—that's what listening to Hako Yamasaki's "Best Collection" feels like. This album is a time machine, transporting you to an era where emotions were raw and melodies were simple yet deeply affecting.

Yamasaki's voice is like a gentle breeze, carrying you through a landscape of beautifully crafted folk-pop tunes. The standout track, "Himawari," is a masterpiece of introspection and sentiment. It's the kind of song that makes you want to close your eyes and just... feel.

This collection holds a special place in my heart. It's deeply ingrained in my memory because my grandpa loved this album so much he played it every time he was on the porch, smoking and enjoying his Jameson Whiskey on the rocks. The melodies always transport me back to those cherished moments.

Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Absolute Fire - modern classic, must listen

Standout Track: Himawari - This track is a delicate mix of introspection and lush acoustic melodies that will make you feel all the feels.

This album is more than just music; it’s an experience that lingers long after the last note fades.

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Youssou N'Dour - Immigrés

Genre: Mbalax
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp

If you're new to Mbalax music, "Immigrés" by Youssou N'Dour is the perfect starting point. This mbalax classic blends upbeat rhythms with deep spiritual undertones, creating a sound that's impossible to resist.

The talking drums and N'Dour's unique voice create a hypnotic effect that'll have you swaying in no time. "Pitche Mi," the album's centerpiece, is nearly 10 minutes of soul-cleansing audio bliss. Trust me, you'll want to experience this one.

Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Blazing Hot - A modern classic, an absolute must-listen

Standout Track: Pitche Mi - Nearly 10 minutes of soul-cleansing audio bliss.
This isn’t just music; it’s a profound exploration of culture and identity.

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Mariee Sioux - Faces in the Rocks

Genre: Folk
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp

Holy smokes, folks! "Faces in the Rocks" is more than an album—it's a spiritual journey through nature. Mariee Sioux weaves a tapestry of Native American influences and medieval harmonies that'll make you feel connected to something ancient and timeless.

Sioux's ethereal voice floats over minimalist arrangements, creating an atmosphere that's both mystical and deeply emotional. "Wizard Flurry Home" and "Bravitzlana Rubakalva" are standout tracks that'll transport you to another world entirely.

Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Absolute Fire

Standout Tracks:

• "Wizard Flurry Home" - A mystical journey through sound.

• "Bravitzlana Rubakalva" - This track is pure magic, with guitar work that’s as intricate as it is mesmerizing.

If you’re looking for an album that will transport you to another world, this is it.

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Yellow Magic Orchestra - Naughty Boys

Genre: Synth Pop
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube

Alright, confession time: I used to think this album was overrated. But boy, was I wrong! "Naughty Boys" isn't just a YMO record—it's a synth-pop masterpiece that refuses to be boxed in.

From the cheeky title to the goofy album cover, everything about this record screams fun. But don't let that fool you—the music is expertly crafted, with melodies that'll stick in your head for weeks. "Ongaku" is my personal favorite—that sliding guitar sound and luscious chorus? Pure eargasm!

Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Blazing Hot - A modern classic, an absolute must-listen

Standout Track: "Ongaku" - That sliding guitar sound gets me every time. It’s the kind of earworm you don’t mind having on repeat.

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Reptaliens - Multiverse

Genre: Alternative Indie
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp

Reptaliens' third album, "Multiverse," is a wild ride through dreamy alt-rock with a gritty edge. It's like they took their signature sound, threw it in a blender with some rough textures, and hit puree. The result? A challenging but deeply satisfying listen.

"Like A Dog" and "Take It" stand out with their unique blend of languid riffs and dreamy aesthetics. And "Go Away"? That melody will haunt you (in the best way possible) long after the music stops.

Rating: 🔥🔥 Warm Glow - for any fan of the genre

Standout Tracks:

• "Go Away" - Hauntingly beautiful, this track will linger long after it’s over.

• "I feel dine" - A dreamy pop melody with just the right amount of bite.

If you’re into bands that push the boundaries of their genre, give this one a spin.

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She Keeps Bees - Eight Houses

Genre: Alternative Rock
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp

Imagine walking into a dimly lit jazz bar, but instead of jazz, you're hit with a soul-stirring blend of blues and garage rock. That's "Eight Houses" for you. Jessica Larrabee's vocals are raw, powerful, and utterly captivating—it's like she's singing directly to your soul.

The beauty of this album lies in its simplicity. No flashy production, just Larrabee's voice, gentle guitar riffs, and steady drumming creating an intimate atmosphere that draws you in and holds you tight.

This album holds a special place in my heart as it was the soundtrack of my senior year of high school in 2015. Every track reminds me of those bittersweet days of transitions and new beginnings.

Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Absolute Fire - - modern classic, must listen

Standout Tracks:

• "Breezy" - A sultry track that feels like a late-night conversation you never want to end.

• "Owl" - This one will haunt you—in the best way possible.

For fans of Cat Power and PJ Harvey, this album is an absolute must.

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Sona Jobarteh - Fasiya

Genre: Folk, World & Country
Listen on: Spotify | YouTube | Bandcamp

Hold onto your hats, folks, because Sona Jobarteh's "Fasiya" is about to blow you away! This album is a masterclass in blending traditional Gambian music with modern elements. Jobarteh's mastery of the kora (a 21-stringed instrument) is nothing short of breathtaking.

"Jarabi" showcases Jobarteh's skill on the kora with a fast-paced, banjo-like rhythm that'll make your head spin. On the flip side, "Mamamuso" is a slower, more melodic piece that invites quiet reflection. This album isn't just music—it's a celebration of culture that deserves your full attention.

Rating: 🔥🔥🔥 High Heat - potential classic, highly suggested listen

Standout Tracks:

• "Jarabi"- A fast-paced, banjo-like track that showcases Sona’s skill.

• "Mamamuso" - A slower, more melodic piece that’s perfect for quiet reflection.

This album is a celebration of culture and a showcase of incredible musical talent.

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Papercuts - Past Life Regression

Genre: Alternative, Indie
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Bandcamp

After a long hiatus, Papercuts is back with "Past Life Regression," and oh boy, was it worth the wait! Jason Quever's signature sound is all over this dreamy masterpiece, blending jangly '60s melodies with modern indie flair.

The production is lush and layered, with reverb-soaked guitars and hazy vocals that create a sense of timelessness. "My Sympathies" hits you right in the feels, while "Sinister Smile" is perfect for those lazy Sunday afternoons.

Rating: 🔥🔥🔥 High Heat - potential classic, highly suggested listen

Standout Tracks:

• "My Sympathies" - Intense and beautiful, this track will pull you in.

• "Sinister Smile" - This one’s got all the laid-back vibes you need.

Papercuts might not release music often, but when they do, it’s always worth the wait.

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Phew! What a musical journey, right? From Senegalese mbalax to Japanese folk-pop, we’ve covered some serious ground. Which of these albums caught your ear? Any hidden gems you think I should check out for the next volume? Drop a comment, shoot me a message, or hit me up on Instagram or TikTok @st_vrgl. I’m always hungry for new tunes!

❤️‍🔥 Thank you so much for reading this issue of Black Noise. ❤️‍🔥 Your support keeps this community alive and kicking, and hey, if you enjoyed this volume, why not share it with a friend? Or better yet, an enemy—maybe some good music will turn them into a friend! 😉

P.S. Don’t forget to check out the Black Noise playlist on Spotify for a taste of this week’s selections. And if you’re feeling extra generous, consider supporting the newsletter. Who knows, there might be some exclusive content or discounts coming your way soon... 😏

Until next time, keep those speakers bumping and your minds open to new sounds. This is your host Saint Virgil signing off. Stay noisy, my friends! 🤘