Album review overview: The Beatles, De La Soul and more

Dozens of new albums arrive at Maxazine’s editorial staff every week. There are too many to listen to, let alone review. This ensures that too many albums are left behind, and that’s a shame. That is why we post an overview of albums that arrive at the editors in short reviews today.

Photo (c) Jorge Fakhouri Filho

Jeremy Rose – Infinity II

For saxophonist Jeremy Rose, the focus is less on the structure of a track and more on the feeling that music can evoke. ‘Infinity II’ begins with the electronics of ‘Full Moon’, which seamlessly transitions into the album’s second track, ‘Futures’. Soundscapes flow into each other, culminating in the first piece with more ‘body’, thanks to Tully Ryan’s drumming and Ben Carey’s repetitive synth patterns. In ‘The Great Wave of Kanagawa,’ we hear Rose’s signature: lyrical playing, rich tone, and daring execution. Unfortunately, it is one of the few genuinely interesting pieces on this album, which meanders almost endlessly (the album title is accurately chosen). Rose has a cabinet full of awards, but the deeper intent of this work eludes us. Nowhere does it become exciting, nowhere does it clarify why this record exists. As with many albums blending ambient, soundscapes, electronic music, and jazz, ‘Infinity II’ ultimately drifts into endless meditative noodling. Tip: listen to ‘Daughter of the Seas’. Much better. (Jeroen Mulder) (5/10) (Jeremy Rose)

Aya Nakamura – Destinée

Aya Nakamura presents an album with ‘Destinée’ where personal growth, emotional reflection, and artistic development take centre stage. Tracks such as ‘Kouma’, ‘Baddies’, and ‘Désarmer’ showcase her ability to blend afrobeats, R&B, and electronic pop into a coherent production. Her voice is the central instrument carrying the melodies and emotions, while guest contributions from artists like Kali Uchis and Shenseea add further variety. The album explores themes of identity, relationships, and life choices, balancing danceable rhythms with introspective moments. The production is clear and powerful, attentive to dynamics and atmosphere, making it suitable for both energetic listening and reflective moments. While some rhythmic patterns recall Nakamura’s earlier works, this project shows her sound being further refined. ‘Destinée’ feels like a mature chapter in which Nakamura invites her audience to grow alongside her artistic vision and personal perspective. The album reinforces her position as a leading voice in contemporary pop music. (Elodie Renard) (8/10) (Warner Music France)

Oneohtrix Point Never – Tranquilizer

‘Tranquilizer’ by Oneohtrix Point Never is a carefully curated album characterised by layers of samples, textures, and sounds from old archives and hardware. Tracks like ‘Lifeworld’, ‘For Residue’, and ‘Cherry Blue’ create an organic yet alien listening experience, with unexpected transitions and rhythmic fragments. The work explores themes of memory, repetition, and meaning in sound, while abstract structures retain emotional resonance. The production is subtle yet rich, revealing new details and layers with every listen. The album feels like a dream where sound and intent meet, inviting the listener to reflect on how sound gains meaning. It is a project that demands time and attention but rewards with a unique sonic world where nostalgia and experimentation go hand in hand. The combination of minimalist structures and carefully placed melodies provides a balanced and profound experience. ‘Tranquilizer’ is thus a remarkable example of contemporary electronic music that engages both intellectually and emotionally. (Elodie Renard) (6/10) (Warp Records)

De La Soul – Cabin in the Sky

De La Soul’s album ‘Cabin in the Sky’ centres on memory, respect, and reflection. The single ‘The Package’ opens the album, demonstrating how the group combines their signature lyrical style with contemporary themes such as loss, legacy, and connection. Tracks like ‘Flying Machines’ and ‘Golden Age’ highlight collaborations with guests such as Nas, Common, Killer Mike, and Black Thought, enhancing the album’s emotional depth without shifting focus away from De La Soul. The production blends warm, soulful beats with modern hip-hop tones, resulting in a sound that feels both familiar and fresh. The album balances energetic tracks with reflective, introspective songs, showing the group’s ongoing relevance in today’s landscape. The combination of nostalgic elements and innovative influences creates a coherent and meaningful listening experience, appealing to both long-time fans and new listeners. ‘Cabin in the Sky’ is a tribute to the past and a demonstration of continual creativity and collaboration. (William Brown) (8/10) (Mass Appeal)

The Beatles – Anthology 4

The Beatles’ album ‘Anthology 4’ presents a collection of rare recordings, demos, and alternate versions of well-known tracks such as ‘Free as a Bird’ and ‘Real Love’. The recordings are carefully restored, with clear and distinct vocal lines, while preserving the historical studio atmosphere. The material offers a unique insight into the band’s creative process, revealing the development from early sketches to final versions. Although some fragments are variations of previously released material, the album provides a rich and varied listening landscape, combining nostalgia with a sense of discovery. The mix of raw studio fragments and more polished takes makes the listening experience dynamic and deepens understanding of the band’s oeuvre. For collectors, it is a valuable addition; for new listeners, it provides a historical journey. The album invites careful listening and repeated plays, as details and subtleties continue to emerge. ‘Anthology 4’ functions as a document of reflection, archiving, and preserving musical history. (Anton Dupont) (7/10) (Apple Records)