Gary Campbell
Between abstract cover art and the title "Morphic Rez," you might assume this to be an album of stark minimalist techno. But don't judge Sendai Era's 2015 EP by its packaging alone: Tapping play reveals deft, smart and danceable hip hop, even when the dance floor is your living room or your morning commute. As MC Era rat-tat-tat raps on the catchy "Sense Deprivation," this is some hella great "shit that makes you vibe with your eyes closed."
Favorite track: Sense Deprivation (ft. Clarissa Abadesco & Richard Arcelo).