This is one of the better releases for new tracks in recent memory. We selected a range of records that indicate just where the culture is going on the underground and mainstream fronts, as well as everywhere in between. Some cuts tip-toe the lines of experimentation, while others provide that raw, boom-bap energy that’s a mainstay in rap music.
Hit the jump peep the gallery of records in The Wrap Up. Let us know what you’re digging or not in the comments.
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Photo: Instagram
10. Theophilus Martins – “Show Me Around”
Producer: Thelonius Martin
The cast members may be confusing, but all is clear when Martins gets to rhyming.
9. Gunplay ft. Rick Ross – “Aiight”
Producer: G5 Kids
It still trips me out that one of Gunplay’s nicknames is the “Human L.A. Riot,” but just why that’s so becomes apparent when streaming this rambunctious record. Yes, that’s a good thing.
8. Bodega BAMZ ft. Raekwon – “F*ck Dat Sh*t”
Producer: The Martinez Brothers
It doesn’t get more New York than this. One of Harlem’s top up-and-comers traded bars with The Chef over a gritty, boom-bap beat.
7. Audio Push – “Parade”
Producer: Hit-Boy
We love what we’ve seen from the HS87 clique in advance of their collaborative album, We The Plug.
6. French Montana – “Oooh Baby”
Producer: Dollar Bill
This song is a little sentimental in that it’s reminiscent of something French would have made back when he and Max B were running NYC. Needless to say that we prefer the Bronx rapper when he rhymes on soulful production.
5. Apollo Brown ft. Roc Marciano – “Lonely & Cold”
Producer: Apollo Brown
This is that visor and a FILA velour music.
4. Ab-Soul ft. Action Bronson & Asaad – “Stigmata”
Producer: Rahki
The Black Lipped Pastor delivered a sermon of sorts on this ominous cut. It only helps that Bronsolino and Saudi were assisting as his proverbial clergy men.
3. Boaz – “Like That”
Producer: !llmind
Pittsburgh’s own Boaz isn’t for the nonsense or lackluster bars on this one. Yes, this will get spins around these parts for some time.
2. Hit-Boy ft. Rich Boy & PeeJ – “No Talkin”
Producer: Hit-Boy
Be afraid of Hit-Boy and his HS87 clique.
1. T.I. ft. Young Thug – “About The Money”
Producer: London On The Track
The Internets quickly responded to what T.I. says is one of his many Young Thug-assisted records. If this record is any indication of their chemistry, The Kang needs to ante up more material.
