Favorite EPs of 2022
Rehearted by Ziggy D’Amato
(Self-Released)
Power pop doesn’t get much catchier or smarter than Ziggy D’Amato’s Rehearted. This impeccably arranged and produced set of love songs is led by the irresistible and charming “Taylor Swift.”
Look at it in the Light by Kate Bollinger
(Ghostly International)
This reflective collection of indie rock ditties from Charlottesville-based singer-songwriter Kate Bollinger is relaxed, tender, and unassuming, with earworms like the “Who Am I But Someone,” “Yards / Gardens” and “Lady in the Darkest Hour” lingering long beyond their brief run times.
Step by Step EP by Braxe + Falcon
(Smuggler’s Way)
French house legends Alan Brax and DJ Falcon unite to produce an ebullient collection of gleaming dance floor gems. Panda Bear and Sunni Colón’s contributions are high points, as are instrumental jams “Love Me” and “Creative Source.”
The Yussef Dayes Experience Live at Joshua Tree by Yussef Dayes
(Brownswood Recordings)
Few contemporary jazz musicians so effortlessly combine taste and technical ability like Yussef Dayes. This moody collection of textured jazz offerings is inspired by the blissful nature of one of the world’s most iconic nature reserves.
Le voyage de M. Lonely dans la lune by Elephant Stone
(Elephants On Parade)
A sci-fi psych rock odyssey that follows the adventure of titular character M. Lonely, this four track trip through space features some of the Montreal act’s best material in years, particularly “La Fusée du Chagrin.”
Texas Moon by Khruangbin and Leon Bridges
(Dead Oceans)
The continued collaboration between two of Austin’s finest—soul crooner Leon Bridges and groove gurus Khruangbin—produces another outstanding five songs that include the romping “B-Side” and hazy “Mariella.”
Away Message by Ari Lennox
(Dreamville/Interscope Records)
Prior to dropping the excellent Age/sex/location, Ari Lennox saw fit to grace listeners with an EP of album-ready R&B jams that included highlights like Summer Walker duet “Queen Space” and the Missy Elliott quoting bop “Gummy.”
Lifted by Parker Louis
(Self-Released)
This vibey collection of modern soul tunes from central Ohio’s Parker Louis is a goldmine of tasty tones, memorable grooves and sublime vocal melodies. Highlights include “Nothing & Everything,” “Rise” and the earnest and energetic title-track.
Rali - رالي by Sababa 5 (feat. Shiran Tzfira)
(Batov Records)
Middle Eastern psych ensemble Sababa 5 and Shiran Tzfira reinterpret the Yemenite songs of her youth on this euphoric and modern blend of classic boogie, disco and funk sounds. Don’t miss “Ya Hiah” or “Sapari Tama.”
Astral Traveling by Chip Wickham
(Gondwana Records)
Chip Wickham’s debut material on Gondwana Records prior to the release of full-length Cloud 10, this trio of transporting spiritual jazz compositions includes highlights “Sais (Egypt)” and “Peaceful Ones.”