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Album of the Month: Loyle Carner - hopefully !

June 5, 2025

For over a decade, Loyle Carner has been crafting one of the most quietly powerful discographies in UK hip hop - and now, he’s back with his fourth studio album, hopefully !.

Known for pairing soulful, jazz-tinged beats with deeply personal takes, Carner has carved out a sound that’s unmistakably his own. With two Mercury Prize nominations under his belt and a devoted fanbase to match, it’s safe to say he’s become a staple of the UK scene.

This time around, hopefully ! finds the South Londoner trying out new things - playing with a full live band, and singing for the first time alongside his usual mix of rap and spoken word. Over 11 tracks, he reflects on fatherhood, identity, and growing up - creating his most open and genre-blurring project to date.

Available on indies exclusive rose vinyl, hear hopefully ! the way it was meant to be heard – on wax, with all the warmth and soul that brings. Head down to your favourite independent record shop and pick up your exclusive edition of Loyle Carner’s hopefully ! when it drops on June 20th. It’s sure to soundtrack plenty of long summer nights !

We caught up with Loyle Carner for a few quickfire questions about the album, the artwork, and his favourite indie record shop.

What can fans expect from this album?

hope !

Tell us what inspired the album artwork?

my children, and how they leave a layer of playfulness over everything i do. i left the album cover photo lying around and sunny drew over it.

Do you have a favourite indie record shop you’re looking forward to seeing it on the shelves of?

sounds of the universe in soho


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