We are just a little over a quarter into the 21st Century. From George W. Bush to Donald Trump, from war in Iraq to genocide in Gaza, from movements such as Occupy Wall Street, BLM, and MeToo, there has been plenty to protest. Throughout the globe, transphobes, racists, oligarchs, and climate deniers continue to be targets of righteous rage. Here is a selection of 100 notable protest albums presented in chronological order. Also, for the sake of variety, limited to one per artist.
Dead Prez – Let’s Get Free (2000)
The debut album of the political hip-hop duo effectively utilizes sparse musical arrangements to lend weight to the song’s provocative statements on socialism and black empowerment. The lyrics denounce whitewashed systems of power and education, which contribute to black oppression.
Common – Like Water for Chocolate (2000)
Common’s fourth album and major-label debut is his commercial breakthrough. The increased mainstream attention doesn’t dilute the socially conscious lyrics for which the rapper is known. It explores afro-centric themes, which are complemented by jazzy and Afro-beats arrangements.
Godspeed You! Black Emperor – Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas to Heaven (2000)
The sophomore album by the Canadian post-rock band is a stunning cinematic masterpiece. Mostly instrumental, but it effectively employs samples to provide political and satirical commentary on the new world order.
Reflection Eternal – Train of Thought (2000)
The debut album by the duo of socially conscious rapper Talib Kweli and DJ Hi-Tek is an insightful examination of African American culture. It also provides insightful observations on governmental corruption and misogyny, expressing empathic support for Black women.
U2 – All That You Can’t Leave Behind (2000)
U2’s tenth studio album balances soaring anthems of optimism with sombre reflections of current events. Even though it was released close to a year prior, the album contains several tracks that resonated in the wake of 9/11.
System of a Down – Toxicity (2001)
The sophomore album of the alt-metal band is just as heavy but more eclectic than their self-titled debut. The album addresses several topics, including the prison industrial complex, police brutality and environmental destruction.
Blackfire – One Nation Under (2001)
The full-length debut by the Native American trio of siblings skillfully blends a heavy and energetic punk sound with traditional indigenous elements. The music provides the perfect backdrop for the righteous indignation of the lyrics which rallies against oppression.
Fugazi – The Argument (2001)
The pioneering DIY band’s final full-length album may very well be their artiest and most melodic. None of this dulls the pointed social commentary that Fugazi is well known for. They aim at targets such as greedy landlords, corporate greed, and the war machine.
The Coup – Party Music (2001)
The duo of political rapper Boots Riley and DJ Pam the Funkstress creates banging party music for radicals. The funky and infectious musical landscape is the perfect platform for Riley’s satirical and provocative lyrics.
Bad Religion – The Process of Belief (2002)
The veteran punk band’s twelfth studio album is an energetic affair, which in many respects is a throwback to their earlier sound. The lyrics also provide incisive thesis statements on politics, religion, and the environment.
Wilco – Yankee Hotel Foxtrot (2002)
Recorded before 9/11, but released after, the alt-country band’s fourth studio album (limited self-release on September 18, 2021, wide release on April 23, 2002) contains multiple songs that resonate in the wake of the attack. Songs like “War on War” and “Ashes of American Flags” and lyrics such as “Tall buildings shake, voices escape singing sad, sad songs” (“Jesus Etc.”) came across as eerily relevant in light of the tragedy.
Lauryn Hill – MTV Unplugged 2.0 (2002)
Lauryn Hill’s live recording of new songs was the polarising follow-up to her groundbreaking 1998 debut solo album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. The album was considered a commercial and critical failure, which is unfortunate because it is a compelling collection of socially conscious tunes. It is also an admirable display of an uncompromising artist who isn’t afraid to stick to her convictions despite any potential backlash.
Sleater-Kinney – One Cut (2002)
The riot grrrl band has always been socially aware, but recorded in the 9/11 aftermath, their sixth full-length album is their most politically direct. Tunes such as “Far Away” (“And the president hides/ While working men rush in and give their lives”) are an anti-war caustic critique of then US President George W. Bush.
Steve Earle – Jerusalem (2002)
Steve Earle throughout his music career has always been an outspoken maverick who isn’t afraid to speak his mind, regardless of who he might potentially piss off. His tenth studio album is a concept album built around the aftermath of 9/11. Mainstream country music tended to respond to the tragic event with blind patriotism, while Earle wasn’t afraid to ask the tough questions about the events that led to the tragedy.
Radiohead – Hail To The Thief (2003)
Even though there has always been a social awareness with Radiohead’s music, their sixth studio album was their most politically direct. Much of the material was influenced by the War on Terror and was critical of George W. Bush.
Björk – Medúlla (2004)
Björk fifth studio album is a stunning work of art which is almost completely a cappella. Several tracks benefit from the powerful contributions of Canadian indigenous throat singer Tanya Tagaq. The Icelandic artist cited the album as her most political, exploring anti-patriotic themes. Instead of focusing on things that divide, like religion and nationality, it is about focusing on the commonality that unites us.
Green Day – American Idiot (2004)
The ambitious concept album opens with the scathing title track, which scathingly indicts US President George W. Bush’s 9/11 response, which led to the Iraq War. The rest of the album effectively encapsulates the feelings of anxiety and disillusionment many were feeling during that period of political turmoil.
Saul Williams – Saul Williams (2004)
The self-titled sophomore album by the spoken-word artist is an eclectic blend of punk, hip-hop, and various other musical elements. Lyrically, Williams insightfully analyzes the Black American experiences and comments on a range of social issues.
Kimya Dawson – Hidden Vagenda (2004)
Dawson crafted a collection of songs that are honest and direct. The album deals heavily with overcoming tragedy, and it is an example of how the personal can be political. It also expresses nonconformist attitudes and how the world changed post 9/11.
K’Naan – The Dusty Foot Philosopher (2005)
The official debut by the Somali-Canadian rapper effectively incorporates African musical elements with honest, socially conscious lyrics. It is heavily based on his true life experience growing up in Somalia and being an immigrant.
Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley – Welcome to Jamrock (2005)
The youngest son of Bob Marley has created an infectious album that showcases a part of Jamaica that doesn’t get exposure from the tourism ads. It also features socially aware verses from rappers such as Nas and Black Thought, which add a more universal aspect to the commentary.
Propagandhi – Potemkin City Limits (2005)
On the Canadian punk band’s fourth full-length album, they continue to add more metallic elements to their aggressive musical attack. The lyrics are as unapologetically political as ever, tackling issues such as government corruption and capitalism.
Josh Ritter – The Animal Years (2006)
Ritter is an articulate storyteller who is skillfully able to weave a narrative. He also effectively employs poetic language and biblical allusions to protest the Iraq War and to comment on religion’s involvement in the bloodshed.
The Flaming Lips – At War with the Mystics (2006)
As far as socially conscious albums go, this is pretty far out, but sometimes you need a little weirdness blended with your political commentary. Also, it remains evergreen because when exploring themes such as abuse of authority and systemic corruption, it stops at naming names. Also, on one of the album’s highlights, “The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song (With All Your Power)”, it discusses personal responsibilities and how no one is immune to the corrupting influence of power.
Defiance, Ohio – The Great Depression (April 16, 2006)
The sophomore album from the folk-punk band is a rollicking affair. It also features pointed nonconformist lyrics that analyze apathy and the downfalls of living in a capitalistic society. There are also a couple of scathing anti-Bush tunes.
The Chicks – Taking the Long Way (2006)
On March 10, 2003, during a concert in London, England, The Chicks spoke out against President George W. Bush and the war in Iraq. Up to this point, any musicians speaking out were mostly underground and came from traditionally anti-authority genres such as punk. The Chicks were not only in the mainstream, but they were part of a music community that leans conservative and tends to support blind patriotism. This resulted in backlash. Taking the Long Way is their defiant response to the backlash. The simple act of making music was already a political statement, but they did have a couple of songs that directly addressed the incident. They refused to just shut up and sing.
Thom Yorke – The Eraser (July 10, 2006)
The debut album by the Radiohead frontman is musically haunting. The moody electronica landscape is the ideal canvas for Yorke’s lyrics, which heavily address climate change and other political concerns.
The Thermals – The Body, the Blood, the Machine (2006)
The Portland-based indie rock band’s third album is a concept album about a couple fleeing a United States that is governed by a fascist regime of faux-Christians. The provocative lyrical imagery sheds light on religious hypocrisy and its unholy influence on governmental policy.
The Roots – Game Theory (2006)
The alt-hip-hop band has always been socially conscious, but this may be their most politically charged. For example, on the tune “False Media,” they heavily reference Public Enemy’s landmark protest album It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back. Featuring some of Black Thought’s sharpest lyrical critiques, drummer Questlove stated, “There was too much going on that we couldn’t just sit back and not speak on it.”
Arcade Fire – Neon Bible (2007)
The Canadian indie rock band followed up their 2004 landmark debut, Funeral, with a majestic sophomore album. The album is more conceptual and socially aware than its predecessor. Lyrically, it addresses issues related to the influence of the media and religion.
Mavis Staples – We’ll Never Turn Back (2007)
Staples lends her powerhouse vocals to a collection of traditional and original tunes related to themes connected to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. As someone who was an integral part of the movement, she connects to the material. Staples isn’t singing just about past struggles, and the powerful tunes also serve as a reminder that there is still plenty of work to do.
M.I.A. – Kala (2007)
M.I.A.’s sophomore album is an exhilarating mix of world music, hip hop, and bold political statements. The tunes deal with issues such as the refugee experience, the prevalence of gun violence, and racial stereotyping.
Erykah Badu – New Amerykah Part One (4th World War) (2008)
The queen of neo-soul’s fourth album is an ambitious concept album that explores the systemic injustices that continue to plague Black America. It is a funky masterpiece that is futuristic, while also being a throwback to the socially conscious soul of the 1970s.
Chumbawamba – The Boy Bands Have Won (2008)
Sadly, the British group is generally viewed as a one-hit wonder for “Tubthumping.” Since the 1980s, the eclectic and outspoken band has been releasing explicitly political music. By this point in their career, they have shifted from their anarcho-punk roots and have become more folk-oriented. Also, the full title of this album is freaking long.
James McMurtry – Just Us Kids (2008)
McMurtry’s most socially conscious album builds on some of the themes developed on his 2005 album Childish Things (which included the standout protest tune “We Can’t Make It Here”). The album is even more direct with its criticism of George W. Bush and his administration.
Mos Def – The Ecstatic (2009)
The alternative rapper’s fourth full-length album is an adventurous and eclectic affair. It features intelligent lyrics concerning social conditions and global politics.
Wingnut Dishwashers Union – Burn the Earth! Leave it Behind! (2009)
Wingnut Dishwashers Union is one of the many projects of anarcho-punk artist Pat the Bunny. The songs have a manic, irrelevant, and non-conformist vibe.
PJ Harvey – Let England Shake (2011)
On Harvey’s eighth album, she expresses her disillusionment with her home country. She heavily focuses on the Afghanistan War and eloquently exposes how diplomacy has failed to prevent such conflicts. She also explores the horror of past wars and highlights the failures to learn from history. Sadly, the album’s message remains poignant.
Tune-Yards – Whokill (2011)
The sophomore album of Merrill Garbus’s art-pop project deals with issues such as power imbalances, injustices, gentrification, and abuse of privilege. The experimental and eclectic nature of the music is well suited to the song’s provocative lyrical message.
Ramshackle Glory – Live the Dream (2011)
Another project from anarchist folk-punker Pat The Bunny, it deals with issues both personal and political. It discusses the challenge of trying to protest against governmental corruption while also grappling with depression and suicidal thoughts (which are also compounded by the political climate).
Fucked Up – David Comes To Life (2011)
The Canadian hardcore band’s ambitious rock opera tells a story of a British light bulb factory worker named David who falls in love with a political activist named Veronica. As a protest, the two attempted to bomb the factory, but the attempt failed, and Veronica died. There is more to the concept involving David being a character created by a villainous narrator and trying to fight to be able to control the plot of his own story. Even if you don’t fully follow the concept, the album does provide thought-provoking commentary on issues such as class struggles and how government and religions are used as tools to suppress the common people.
Seun Kuti & the Egypt 80 – From Africa With Fury: Rise (2011)
The youngest son of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, Seun, leads his father’s former band on this powerful album. Just like his father, he exposes the corruption taking place in Nigeria. He also takes aim at big corporations such as Monsanto and Halliburton, which exploit Africans for financial gain. Even though the issues may have a geographic focus, the themes of standing up to oppression are universal.
Killer Mike – R.A.P. Music (2012)
On the politically outspoken rapper’s fifth album, R.A.P. is an acronym for Rebellious African People. It benefits from the skilled production of future Run The Jewels collaborator El-P and features lyrics that intelligently expose systemic injustices faced by Black communities.
Against Me! – Transgender Dysphoria Blues (2014)
They never shied away from the political, but after frontwoman Laura Jane Grace came out as transgender in 2012, the band’s focus shifted towards issues of gender identity. On the punk band’s sixth album they tap into Grace’s personal experiences to address issues of gender dysphoria and examines the biases faced by transgendered individuals. An honest and necessary album.
Tinariwen – Emmaar (2014)
Sometimes the simple act of making music is a profound statement of protest. That is the case for Tinariwen. In 2012, an Islamic militant group declared what they viewed as Satanic music illegal in Mali, which forced the band to flee to the United States. The album deals with the band’s exile and the political strife in their homeland.
D’Angelo and the Vanguard – Black Messiah (2014)
Originally slated to be released in 2015, but after the controversial court decisions to acquit the police officers who murdered Eric Garner and Michael Brown, D’Angelo rushed the release of his timely album for December 2014. The album deals heavily with the Black American experience and the lack of regard for Black lives. Sadly, it still resonates.
War On Women – War On Women (2015)
The debut album by the feminist punk band is a kick ass, in your face protest album. Rapists, misogynists and hypocritical so-call pro-lifers cannot escape the lyrical and sonic onslaught.
Kendrick Lamar – To Pimp a Butterfly (2015)
A landmark album that provided a much-needed soundtrack in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement. The ambitious, jazzy arrangement adds weight to the socially conscious rapper’s poignant critiques of the systemic issues affecting Black America.
Downtown Boys – Full Communism (2015)
Nowadays, when people talk about punk, they often refer to empty aesthetics that don’t carry much weight. Described as a “bilingual political dance sax punk party,” Downtown Boys proves that the attitudes of punk can still be a powerful force. The group’s diverse background is tapped into to create vital music that decries injustices and provides a voice for the marginalized.
Beyoncé – Lemonade (2016)
The groundbreaking album is the perfect example of how the personal is political. The wrath that she expresses from being betrayed is used as a canvas to explore themes of female and black empowerment, best exemplified in tunes such as “Freedom” and “Formation”.
Anohni – Hopelessness (2016)
Music ranging from deceptively upbeat 80s-inspired synth to darker sonic textures is used by Anohni as the backdrop to address serious political topics. Everything from surveillance, the environmental crisis, drone attacks, and disillusionment over Obama’s presidency is covered. She also shows that there is power in vulnerability by inserting herself into many of the tunes and acknowledging personal accountability.
Elza Soares – A Mulher do Fim do Mundo (The Woman At The End Of The World) (2016)
Even after six decades of making music, the iconic Brazilian samba singer Elza Soares continued to be a vital artist (sadly passed away on January 20, 2022). On her album, she sings about racism, domestic violence, drug addiction, global warming, and sexual freedom. She provides a voice for those marginalized due to skin colour or sexual orientation. The eclectic music arrangements add to the album’s powerful messages.
Solange – A Seat At The Table (2016)
The album is a powerful thesis statement on identity and empowerment. The album’s interludes also feature insightful soundbites of individuals talking about different aspects of blackness.
Drive-By Truckers – American Band (2016)
The alt-country band has never been afraid to be political, but their eleventh album, American Band, is their most politically direct. Several of the songs on the album deal with gun violence. It also deals with racial inequality, and the album’s theme is fittingly depicted by the album cover of the American flag at half-mast. The album raises the question of how long the flag will remain at half-mast.
Kae Tempest – Let Them Eat Chaos (2016)
The acclaimed UK spoken word artist creates a brilliant conceptual piece about the challenges faced by seven initial strangers whose lives eventually intersect. The concept is used to provide poignant political commentary on issues such as climate change, gentrification, and political/corporate greed. Tempest effectively expresses the anxiety felt during this time of political turmoil.
Gord Downie – Secret Path (2016)
The last album released before Gord Downie’s untimely passing, The Tragically Hip frontman and Canadian icon chose to draw awareness to the true-life story of Chanie Wenjack, who ran away from a residential school in Kenora, Ontario, Canada. Wenjack died at the age of 12 from hunger and exposure on October 23, 1966, while trying to make his way home. Downie also wrote a graphic novel, and an accompanying animated film was made. Not only a stunning work of art, but an important educational tool.
Tanya Tagaq – Retribution (2016)
The Canadian indigenous throat singer focuses heavily on how governments and corporations are destroying sacred land. At times, it is unsettling to listen to, but that is the point. Tagaq tries to jar the listeners to their senses. If humans don’t change course, Mother Nature will seek permanent retribution.
A Tribe Called Quest – We Got It from Here… Thank You 4 Your Service (2016)
The final album by the legendary alternative hip-hop group was released three days after Trump was elected as US President. Much of the album addresses the political climate and took aim at the hateful rhetoric spouted by Trump and his ilk.
Rhiannon Giddens – Freedom Highway (2017)
Along with being an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, Rhiannon Giddens is also a dedicated archivist and historian. Each of these skills is used to fine effect on her sophomore solo album. She takes on the role of a historical tour guide helping the listener navigate the Black American experience through slavery, the civil rights movement and right down to today.
Hurray For The Riff Raff – The Navigator (2017)
The Navigator is an ambitious concept album, based on a 16-year-old protagonist named Navita, who is living in an over-gentrified city in the future. Frontwoman Alynda Segarra based the concept on her return visits to her ancestral homeland, Puerto Rico, and her childhood home, the Bronx, New York. Even though the concept is based in the future, the song’s theme is rooted in the present. Even though the album was released several months prior to Hurricane Irma & Maria ravaging Puerto Rico, it did take on greater relevance after that fact.
Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit – The Nashville Sound (2017)
Jason Isbell has long been considered one of the best living songwriters, and The Nashville Sound helps solidify that claim. The album is also his most socially conscious album and was motivated by concerns about the world his daughter will be growing up in. Many songs grapple with deeply ingrained attitudes associated with the South that contributed to Trump being elected. He also addresses white privilege and the fallout of the 2016 US presidential election. The album balances out disillusionment with optimism that future generations will do better.
Brick Body Kids Still Daydream – Open Mike Eagle (2017)
Brick Body Kids Still Daydream is a concept album built around the indie rapper’s experience living in the now-defunct Robert Taylor Homes public housing project in Chicago. Eagle also had an aunt who was displaced by the demolition, which adds to the personal narrative. Eagle’s employs satirical wit to explore issues of gentrification and institutional inequality. The album also references how hip-hop was a life-saving outlet for Eagle and highlights how positive outlets are needed to help the next generation of brick body kids escape the cycle of poverty, drugs, and violence.
Margo Price – All American Made (2017)
Margo Price’s sophomore album is a socially conscious masterpiece. She is not afraid to be political in a genre that tends to be apolitical. She writes and sings about issues such as gender pay inequality, agricultural rights, and American greed and corruption. Her heartfelt and honest expressions of conviction make All American Made an essential listen.
Camp Cope – How to Socialise & Make Friends (2018)
The Australian all-female indie rock trio’s sophomore album is a personal account of what it is like to navigate through the patriarchy. With tunes that rally against tokenism and sexual assault, it is the perfect soundtrack for the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements.
Previously featured “The Opener” as a Daily Dose of Protest.
Jean Grae & Quelle Chris – Everything’s Fine (2018)
As humans, we tend to lie and say things are fine even when it isn’t. On Everything’s Fine, the experimental hip-hop duo of Jean Grae and Quelle Chris successfully uses satire to highlight that in these times of political turmoil, things are not fine and we need to honestly discuss that.
Previously featured “Gold Purple Orange” and “My Contribution to This Scam” as a Daily Dose of Protest.
Sihasin – Fight Like A Woman (2018)
Sihasin is a brother and sister drum and bass duo consisting of Jeneda and Clayson Benally, who descended from the indigenous punk trio Blackfire (with their brother Klee). Their music impeccably blends punk and rock influences with traditional native elements. Lyrically, they address issues such as cultural and environmental genocide. They create powerful anthems of hope.
Previously featured “Strong Together” as a Daily Dose of Protest.
IDLES – Joy as an Act of Resistance (2018)
On the UK’s punk band’s sophomore album, they clearly show that remaining joyful during tumultuous times is a potent act of resistance. The band provides commentary on such issues as immigration and toxic masculinity. It is a socially conscious masterpiece which proves that punk rock is still a vital cultural force.
Previously featured “Danny Nedelko” “Samaritans” and “Great” as a Daily Dose of Protest.
Noname – Room 25 (2018)
On Room 25, Noname combines infectious, jazzy arrangements with insightful lyrical flow. Along with the personal, she also discusses the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry, and she critiques issues such as police brutality and systemic racism. She is one of the most vital voices in hip-hop.
Previously featured “Prayer Song” has a Daily Dose of Protest.
Shad – A Short Story About A War (2018)
The Canadian rapper’s concept album explores social issues such as racism, immigration, gentrification, and the environment. The combo of jazzy musical arrangements with the poetic lyrical flow makes the album a vital piece of social commentary. On the album’s closing track, “All I Need” it states that the “the truth is bulletproof” and the potent truths conveyed on this album are needed more than ever.
Previously featured “The Fool Pt 1 (Get It, Got It Good)” and “The Fool Pt 3 (Frame of Mind)” as a Daily Dose of Protest.
Our Native Daughters – Songs of Our Native Daughters (2019)
The roots music supergroup not only created a musically stunning album, but they also created an important archival project. They relate the often untold stories of their ancestors and provide timely lessons that will help us learn from the past.
Snotty Nose Rez Kids – Trapline (2019)
With a sound that they dubbed “indigenous trap”, the indigenous Canadian rap duo creates hard-hitting political music that also wouldn’t sound out of place in the clubs. They create empowering anthems of resistance and cultural celebration.
Kishi Bashi – Omoiyari (2019)
As a son of Japanese immigrants, Bashi was affected by the current state of xenophobic immigration policies instituted by the Trump administration. Drawing parallels with history, Bashi crafted a stunning concept album built around the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. The album promoted the continued need for greater empathy.
Ezra Furman – 12 Nudes (2019)
12 Nudes is an appropriate title since Furman openly exposes the uneasiness of living in this current political climate. Furman’s vulnerability when addressing personal issues of gender identity and systemic injustices adds weight to the essential anthems that make up the album.
The High Women – The High Women (2019)
The debut self-titled album by the country music supergroup, featuring Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby, Maren Morris, and Amanda Shires, is a significant release that challenges the patriarchal structure of not only the country music industry but society at large.
Pink Siifu – NEGRO (2020)
Pink Siifu may be a rapper, but on his sophomore full-length, he replaces most of the rapping with angry growls. The album is eclectic and confrontational, and he skillfully blends several genres, including hardcore and free jazz. With 14 of the 20 tunes clocking in under two minutes, he doesn’t waste any time speaking out against police brutality and systemic racism.
Fiona Apple — Fetch The Bolt Cutters (2020)
Apple’s critically acclaimed masterpiece resonates partly because it encapsulates the feelings of anxiety many were experiencing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The album also illustrates how the personal is political. For example, when Apple declares, “Kick me under the table all you want. I won’t shut up,” she not only references her discomfort at a dinner party but also expresses a sentiment that resonates in any situation where one’s voice is attempted to be silenced. In the track “Relay,” she critiques toxic influences, particularly calling out social media influencers with her line, “I resent you presenting your life like a fucking propaganda brochure.”
In an NPR interview, Apple described how the motivation for her album was to urge listeners to “fetch your tool of liberation. Set yourself free.” Even post-pandemic, that potent message continues to resonate.
Run The Jewels – RTJ4 (2020)
If you have to choose one album to represent the political climate of 2020, this may be the album. Considering it has only been out since June, it might be premature to declare it an all-time classic, but it certainly felt immediately momentous. The duo of Killer Mike and El-P accomplishes the difficult feat of creating something that feels both timely and timeless.
Previously featured “walking in the snow” as a Daily Dose of Protest.
Billy Nomates – Billy Nomates (2020)
The spectacular self-titled debut by the UK indie-rocker taps into Nomates personal experiences of working dead-end jobs and dealing with misogyny. She effectively employs her biting wit to decry capitalism, apathy, and hypocrisy. The album is also a stirring call for the forgotten masses to stand up and make the powers that be take notice.
Previously featured “FNP” as a Daily Dose of Protest.
clipping. – Visions Of Bodies Being Burned (2020)
The sequel to the experimental hip-hop trio’s 2019 horrorcore masterpiece, There Existed an Addiction to Blood, might even be better than its predecessor. Once again, they succeed in employing horror movie themes to examine real-life socio-political issues. Examples of effectively recasting monsters to provide commentary include “Pain Everyday,” which is a call-to-arms for the ghosts of black lynching victims to haunt the heirs of their white murderers, and “Body for the Pile,” which relates the tale of three police officers who are murdered. The album is a jarring listening experience, but sometimes it is necessary to be jarred awake to confront real-life horrors.
Femi Kuti & Made Kuti – Legacy+ (2021)
The legacy of legendary activist and Afrobeat originator, Fela Kuti, is carried on by his son, Femi and grandson Made. Legacy + is a double album featuring Stop The Hate, the 11th album by Femi and For(e)ward, the debut album of Made. Just like Fela, the two albums mix poignant political commentary with infectious beats.
Leanne Betasamosake Simpson – Theory Of Ice (2021)
Simpson is an acclaimed novelist, poet, scholar, and singer who is also a member of the Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg people, native to southern Ontario, Canada. On this album, she delves deeply into the theme of climate change. For instance, the opening track “Break Up” features the poignant lyrics “There is euphotic rising and falling. Orbits of dispossession and reattachment. Achieving maximum density: 39 degrees Fahrenheit.” Another example is “Failure Of Melting”: (“The caribou sit measuring emptiness. The fish study giving up). The album’s standout is her potent reworking of Willie Dunn’s “I Pity The Country.”
Witch Camp (Ghana) – I’ve Forgotten Now Who I Used to Be (2021)
I’ve Forgotten Now Who I Used to Be is an important archival project that collects field recordings made at Ghana’s infamous witch camps. Witch camps are settlements where women accused of witchcraft can seek refuge. Those persecuted as witches often suffer from mental health issues and physical ailments. Others are shunned as a ploy to steal their land after their husband’s passing. The album is an important project in preserving overlooked cultures and elevating the voices of those who are often overlooked and voiceless.
Damon Locks, Black Monument Ensemble – NOW (2021)
According to Locks, the album was composed in the summer of 2020, “following months of pandemic-induced fear and isolation, the explosion of social unrest, struggle, and violence in the streets, and as the certain presence of a new reality had fully settled in.” The album powerfully blends music with samples to create a powerful listening experience.
Sons of Kemet – Black to the Future (2021)
The album touches upon certain aspects of the black experience. The album effectively reflects upon the past while providing a galvanizing message to move ahead in the future. It is music that successfully engages the mind, heart, and body.
Soul Glo – Diaspora Problems (2022)
This is the hardcore outfit’s first album on the renowned punk label Epitaph, and it features their intense musical attack and radical lyrics. It is nothing new for hardcore punk to address racial and social injustices, but being black artists in a mostly white genre allows them to confront these issues based on their personal background and experiences.
The Album track “Fucked Up If True” was previously featured as a Daily Dose of Protest.
Bob Vylan – Bob Vylan Presents The Price of Life (2022)
Just like their 2020 debut album, We Live Here, the album features incisive political commentary addressing issues such as systemic racism and poverty. It features radical potent slogans such as ‘Wage war against the state’, ‘England’s fucking dead, let it burn’, and ‘Alexa, take me to prison’. Concerning the topics covered by the album, singer Bobby Vylan (not to be confused with the drummer Bobbie Vylan) made the following statement: “Money is a tool. It’s neither good nor bad. Unfortunately, there are some people that are using it for evil and to keep other people down.”
The album track “GDP” was previously featured as a Daily Dose of Protest.
Fantastic Negrito – White Jesus Black Problems (2022)
In Virginia, back in 1759, a white Scottish servant Elizabeth Gallimore, fell in love with a black slave whose name had been lost over time. Their great-great-great-great-great-great-great-grandson, Xavier Amin Dphrepaulezz, who performs under the pseudonym Fantastic Negrito, has released the compelling concept album White Jesus Black Problems based on his recently discovered lineage. The ambitious multi-media project includes a companion film.
The album track “Man with No Name” was featured as a Daily Dose of Protest.
Ashenspire – Hostile Architecture (2022)
According to the Bandcamp description, the album “is a sonic exploration of the ways that subjects under late capitalism are constrained and set in motion via the various structures that uphold stratification and oppression in urban contexts.” I couldn’t describe it better myself.
Sunny War – Anarchist Gospel (2023)
This album by the roots artist is a compelling blend of the personal and political, and it promotes a message of resilience and perseverance. Concerning the album, Sunny War made the following statement in an interview with The Bluegrass Situation:
“The album title isn’t really political, to me. I felt like the big choruses [on the album] felt gospel in a way, but it wasn’t religious so I felt like it was Anarchist Gospel. It was really because of the one song, “Whole,” where I just felt like the message of the song was kind of about anarchy, in a way that most people could understand. I guess I’m more of a socialist now, but it’s the same sentiment. I just want people to have what they need. That’s more what anarchy means to me. It seems like it’s government that’s in the way of people getting what they need.”
“For me, it’s more personal. When I was homeless, a lot of times we would be living in abandoned buildings and we’d get arrested for that. Anarchy, to me, means, “Why can’t we be here? Nobody else is going to be in here. Why are you keeping us from this?” It feels weird that we don’t get to claim where we live, but other people do. Why do they have more rights to the same places? I don’t know if that’s anarchy, so much as I just think people have a right to everything.”
Zulu – A New Tomorrow (2023)
The debut album by the American hardcore band is musically eclectic, effectively incorporating elements of reggae and soul into the aggressive musical attack. The album does touch upon the generational trauma of Black people, but as mentioned by vocalist Anaiah Lei in an NPR interview, the lyrics just don’t address suffering: “When people think about the pain of exclusion, they think about Black people. And then we end up getting tokenized one way or another.” Instead of solely focusing on systemic injustices, the songs are also a celebration of resilience and convey a sense of optimism.
Lonnie Holley – Oh Me Oh My (2023)
The latest album by the 73-year-old acclaimed visual artist and avant-garde musician is a stunning work of art that taps into his experiences growing up in the Jim Crow South. It balances moments of bleakness with a sense of optimism. It also features notable contributions from Bon Iver, Michael Stipe, Sharon Van Etten, and Moor Mother.
Previously featured album track “Mount Meigs” as a Daily Dose of Protest.
HMLTD – The Worm (2023)
Featuring a cast of 47 musicians, the sophomore album by the UK art-rock band is an ambitious concept album about a worm that shallows up England. The sci-fi dystopian narrative is used as a lens to examine personal issues such as depression and political concerns such as capitalistic-fueled climate disasters. Weird in the best possible way, a truly compelling listen.
Dead Pioneers – Dead Pioneers (2023)
The genesis of Dead Pioneers happened when Indigenous artist Gregg Deal and Algiers guitarist Lee Tesche met at an artist residency. What started as a one-off track led to the formation of a full band and a self-titled debut album. Dead Pioneers blends Deal’s incisive social critiques with a blistering musical attack.
Ragana – Desolation’s Flower (2023)
With its impeccable blend of gorgeous clean vocals and harsh dirty vocals, the latest album by the metal duo strikes the perfect balance of light and dark. The album contains a strong anti-fascist message and the album’s title track is described by the duo as “a hymn of gratitude for queer and trans ancestors, known or unknown, by blood or affinity, whose joy and survival make our lives possible, and whose memory inspires and helps us resist the tide of increasingly visible hatred and oppression.”
Ekko Astral – Pink Balloons (2024)
The debut album by the Washington, D.C.-based punk band takes a serious stance on the life-threatening challenges faced by trans individuals and critiques how capitalism exploits those who challenge it (such as the harrowing “i90” and the poignant lyrics “have friends still hiding while you throw a parade”). But on several tunes, they accomplish the impressive feat of being serious without taking themselves too seriously. With an injection of playful humor, who says the revolution can’t be fun?
Mach-Hommy – #RICHAXXHAITIAN (2024)
The elusive rapper built a cult following (some of his albums have sold over $1000) by being protective of his image and keeping his lyrics off Genius. All of this adds to the mystique, but the music is also goddamn good and he is an impeccably skilled MC and lyricist. Like his previous albums, he effectively taps into his Haitian heritage and articulates the wealth disparity within Haiti.
Jesse Welles – Hells Welles (2024)
This is the first album by the talented singer-songwriter, credited as Jesse Welles (previously released under the name Welles, along with other pseudonyms). The album’s 21 tracks include many semi-viral tunes that Welles previously shared through social media. Welles is a gifted social commentator and satirist.
Jake Blount & Mali Obomsawin – Symbiont (2024)
This collaborative album by Jake Blount and Mali Obomsawin is a riveting blend of Black and Indigenous futurism with traditional folk elements. It explores issues of racial and climate injustice and poignantly highlights the future ills that will result if things continue unchecked.
Chat Pile – Cool World (2024)
This is the sophomore album by the sludge-metal band fittingly named after the 200-foot-high heaps of contaminated gravel found in the ghost town of Picher, Oklahoma. Just like their excellent 2022 debut God’s Country, it is an unsettling but compelling look at a decaying planet. “’Cool World’ covers similar themes to our last album, except now exploded from a micro to macro scale, with thoughts specifically about disasters abroad, at home, and how they affect one another,” says vocalist Raygun Busch.
Meryl Streek – Songs for the Deceased (2024)
The explosive sophomore album by the Irish electro-punk artist is the perfect blend of the personal and political. The eclectic musical palette provides the perfect landscape to take aim at targets such as greedy landlords, corrupt politicians, and the increasing rate of suicide. The album is dark and heavy, but it is also a compelling listen, which is the perfect outlet for righteous indignation.
