June: 8 urban releases you need to hear this month

Niia 'Sideline' (Atlantic Records)

LA-based future-jazz vocalist and classically trained pianist Niia has revealed the absolutely sublime ‘Sideline’, taken from her debut album ‘I’. Produced by long-time collaborator Robin Hannibal (Rhye, The Internet, Kendrick Lamar), the combination of the classic orchestral lift with smoky vocals makes for something really special. Following forays in trip-hop and r’nb, the rest of album promises to be an essential release, too.

9/10