It’s been some time since we last saw Isaiah Rashad; since his critically acclaimed 2016 album, The Sun’s Tirade. The Top Dawg affiliate has been vocal about his struggles with mental health in his art and in interviews, expressing how it has at times derailed his focus. But the wait is…

Doja Cat has followed a rare, strictly upward trajectory career since her debut with viral single “Mooo!” and wacky “Go To Town,” off 2018 debut Amala. On her third album, she launches herself into unexplored galaxies above, creating the world of Planet Her. She channels the vibrant energy and various…

Megan Thee Stallion comes bearing Good News amid her chaotic year. Between legal issues with her record label, being shot and dropping the monumentally viral “WAP” with Cardi B, she seems to be burning the candle at both ends. Her artistic vision with this album was to emphasize the importance of…

SZA performs at Blurry Vision Fest at Middle Harbor Shoreline Park in Oakland on May 12, 2018. OAKLAND — The two-day Blurry Vision Fest made its debut at Middle Harbor Shoreline Park with a predominantly hip-hop and R&B lineup to rival any major festival. With the Bay Bridge, Port of Oakland…

Kyle Kohner’s five-part series ranking the 50 best albums of 2017 continues with numbers 40 to 31. Missed the first entry? Start at the beginning. 40. Ariel Pink – Dedicated to Baby Jameson Dedicated to Bobby Jameson signals a return to Ariel Pink’s roots with a lo-fi approach, thus making this project feel less manufactured…

RIFF wants you to get out to more shows! To help you with that, here are our picks for where to go and who to see next week. RIFF’s video concert series features artists of all genres, with a focus on the best hidden gems the local music scene has to offer. If you’re…

“lus,” Illustration: Vivian Shih It’s “love and hate” week at RIFF. We’ve taken on the theme of Valentine’s Day to talk about both sides of love. Today, we asked our writers, photographers and editors about their favorite love songs. Additionally, we’ve partnered with talented artist Vivian Shih, who has illustrated…