Lloyd Banks - A.O.N. 3: DESPITE MY MISTAKES

All or Nothing Vol. 3: Despite My Mistakes finds Lloyd Banks doubling down on moody, introspective Hip Hop with an ear tuned to somber piano loops, ghostly samples, and dusty drums. The production leans minimal, often stripped of sharp hooks or energy shifts, creating a grey backdrop where his verses do most of the work. Lyrically, Banks is still a technician—his rhyme patterns are tightly wound, and his flow keeps a steady grip on the beat, but the punchlines that once defined his style take a back seat to personal reflection and weighty observations.

Tracks like “Despite My Mistakes” with Styles P and “Endangered Innocence” with Ghostface Killah show glimpses of chemistry and focus, especially when paired with more textured production. Nicholas Craven’s soulful loop work adds some color where much of the album stays flat. The songs often blur together—same tempos, similar structures—leaving little dynamic contrast across the 16-track set.

There’s depth in Banks’ writing, but the sonic choices can drag. The few standout moments come when he pairs sharp lyricism with production that actually cuts through. Without that, the tape can drift into repetition, despite the strength of his pen.

Release date: April 30.

Supreme Cerebral & Macapella - Grime & Glamour

Grime & Glamour is a fine offering of underground boom-bap from Supreme Cerebral and Scotland-based producer Macapella. The beats are cinematic and grimy, laced with soul chops and sharp cuts from DJ TMB. Supreme’s delivery is direct and steady, pulling from street-worn wisdom with guests like Hus Kingpin and Eloh Kush adding extra grit. There’s an elegant edge to the mood, but at 32 minutes, the album ends before it really digs in. With so much similar Hip Hop out right now, it’s hard for this one to linger after the final track fades.

Release date: April 25, 2025.

Too Short - Sir Too Short Vol. 1 (Freaky Tales)

Sir Too Short Vol. 1 (Freaky Tales) is more about presence than reinvention. At 58, Too Short stays true to his playbook: laid-back delivery, raunchy rhymes, and Bay Area funk basslines that ride low and steady. The beats lean on synthy grooves, heavy kicks, and occasional trap touches, but the core is familiar—slow-rolling pimp tales and party talk, handled with the same casual confidence he built his name on. “Still Mackin’” and “You Don’t Know” tap into that late-’80s Mobb flavor, while newer cuts like “Go Bitch” and “Pimpin’ Like Kenny Red” bring in younger collaborators without chasing trends.

This isn’t his sharpest album, but it doesn’t really try to be. It’s about staying active, staying in the mix, and giving longtime fans something to nod to. The storytelling is crude, funny, and sometimes dated, but that’s part of the appeal. Too Short isn’t pretending to be anything else. He’s coasting in his own lane, talking slick over basslines you can feel in your chest. Sir Too Short Vol. 1 may not move the needle, but it keeps the engine running—more nostalgic than essential, but still very much $hort Dog.

Release date: April 18, 2025.

BFB Da Packman - Thats Brilliant!

That’s Brilliant! is loud, funny, and full of personality. Houston-based rapper BFB Da Packman, originally from Flint, Michigan, brings a sharp Midwest cadence and wild sense of humor to a batch of upbeat, synth-heavy beats. His delivery is animated and direct, swinging between offhand jokes and moments of grounded reflection without slowing the pace. The project keeps a loose, high-energy feel throughout, but “MoreThanBRILLIANT!” featuring MIKE and Starlito is the standout cut here—balancing clever writing with a heavier emotional weight. Packman leans into his contradictions without trying to resolve them, giving the project its edge. It’s messy, bold, and hard to ignore.

Release date: April 18, 2025.

Bernadette Price - A Widows Cry

Bernadette Price – A Widow’s Cry moves with the weight of memory and the focus of someone who’s got something to say, not just something to mourn. Ten years after the passing of Sean Price, Bernadette steps forward with her own voice—clear, direct, and cut from the same Brooklyn cloth. Her delivery is grounded, no flash, just truth, laid over rugged boom bap built by producers like Stu Bangas, Khrysis, and Da Beatminerz. Tracks like “Drama Time” and “Bars” hit hard with sharp drums and street-level perspective, while “Sean’s Gone” shifts into soulful reflection without softening the edges. Sean appears posthumously on “Shut da Fuck Up,” a moment that’s both raw and precise, tying past to present without sentimentality. The album is structured tightly—no filler, no gloss—letting Bernadette’s steady tone and unshaken presence carry through. A Widow’s Cry doesn’t look back. It moves forward, with her voice front and center, and Sean in the room.

Release date: April 18, 2025.

Heem B$F - Bars & Noble 2

Bars & Noble 2 is a cold-weather record—built on moody loops, heavy drums, and quiet focus. Heem B$F sounds locked in, rapping with a clipped precision that cuts through the murky production without rushing the moment. The opener “187” is tense and unflinching, setting the tone with eerie keys and a clear-eyed sense of threat. “1993” moves slower, draped in nostalgia but never leaning on it. The beats are mostly boom bap-driven, dusty and stripped down, giving Heem room to land each word. Tracks like “Gangsta Pain” and “Dog Eat Dog” lean into hard truths without glamor, showing how loss and pressure shape the world around him. “Retro Flow” loosens up with bounce and attitude, while “Simon Says” spins the crew’s energy into something wired and aggressive. Heem doesn’t waste bars or overextend—Bars & Noble 2 stays tight, with its sharp edges and sharp focus, rooted in Buffalo, but speaking to everywhere that moves the same.

Release date: April 18, 2025.

Cappadonna - Godly Wealthy & Beautiful

Cappadonna never really succeeded in releasing a strong album after his solo debut, and Godly Wealthy & Beautiful doesn’t change that. It’s not even his worst, but the lack of focus, clunky transitions, and uneven production make it hard to recommend. There are glimpses of the charisma that once made him a standout voice, but they’re buried under half-baked ideas and forgettable beats. At this point, the album is really only worth checking out for diehard Cappadonna fans who are already committed to digging through the clutter for the occasional spark.

Release date: April 17, 2025.

Sol Messiah - War Of The Gods

War Of The Gods is a gritty, percussive collection from Atlanta producer Sol Messiah, packed with tight loops, sharp snares, and a lineup of lyricists who come with purpose. The beats lean heavy on chopped soul samples, layered textures, and neck-snapping drums that ground the album in classic East Coast tradition without sounding dated. Each track brings a different voice—Skyzoo’s steady control, Sa-Roc’s precision, Cambatta’s layered metaphors—but the tone stays consistent: urgent and unflinching. There’s little room for filler; songs are short and snappy, verses hit fast and often. At times, the sequencing can feel dense, but Sol Messiah’s ear for rhythm and texture keeps it engaging. War Of The Gods is packed with sharp moments that reward a focused listen.

Release date: April 15, 2025.

Precyce Politix - The Great And Terrible

The Great And Terrible is a gritty, focused record with sharp beats and sharper rhymes. Precyce Politix delivers dense, no-frills verses over raw production from DRUGS Beats, Trblmkr, Ace Dizzy Flow, and more. The drums knock, the samples crackle, and the energy stays tight throughout. Tracks like “God’s Number” with K-Hill hit hard—lyrically tight and sonically aggressive without losing clarity. Precyce is direct, clever, and grounded in experience, flipping thoughtful lines with confidence. The album is structured with care, moving smoothly from track to track without dragging. It’s heavy on bars, light on filler, and built for repeat listens.

Release date: April 15, 2025. 

Raz Fresco & Futurewave - Stadium Lo Champions

Stadium Lo Champions brings Raz Fresco and Futurewave back in stride. The beats are gritty and focused—drums hit hard, loops stay grimy, and there’s a cold elegance in how the tracks move. Futurewave keeps things lean, mixing dusty samples with sharp cuts, leaving room for bars to breathe.

Raz sounds locked in. His flow is tight and structured, with a cool confidence that doesn’t stretch for effect. Songs like “Steve Austin” hit with technical precision, and features from Daniel Son, al.divino, and Estee Nack add extra weight. “Lauren Story” shifts the mood with a softer backdrop, but stays rooted in the same grounded tone.

It’s a tight project—no filler, no wasted space. Each track builds on the next without relying on big swings. At 16 tracks, it runs fast but hits clean. Stadium Lo Champions is deliberate, polished, and built for heads tuned into sharp bars and raw beats.

Release date: 11 April 2025.

ASM (A State Of Mind) - The Frenzy Of Bacchus

ASM’s The Frenzy of Bacchus offers a vibrant plunge into alternative Hip Hop, blending boom bap, soul, and jazz. The trio—MCs FP (Canada), GT Lovecraft (UK), and DJ/producer Rhino (Germany)—crafts a lush, cinematic sound across 14 tracks. Rhino’s production, rich with dusty drums and orchestral flourishes, shines on “Sabre Pop,” where Mattic’s verses add grit. “Razor Clams,” featuring Harleighblu’s soulful vocals, weaves vivid storytelling, while The Hot City Horns lift “Beluga & Toast” with brassy swagger. FP and GT Lovecraft’s lyrics, dense with imagery, explore hedonism and culture, tying to the group’s natural wine passion, evident in their Natty Rhyme series. A gem for boom bap fans, it’s a bold, flavorful ride.

Release date: April 11, 2025.

ONYX - Lower East Side

Lower East Side by Onyx is loud, gritty, and built on classic boom-bap loops. The drums hit hard, and the energy never really drops, but the tracks blur together over time. The delivery is aggressive, like we know from Onyx, with shouted hooks and barked verses. Lyrically, it’s heavy on chest-thumping and street talk, delivered with the kind of intensity that made their early work pop. But the structure leans too often on repetition, and the production, while clean, doesn’t leave much room for surprise. It’s tough and straightforward, but rarely steps outside the formula.

Release date: April 11, 2025.

RJ Payne - Leatherface 4

Leatherface 4 is all grit and muscle. RJ Payne barrels through each track with sharp-edged delivery and bruising punchlines. The production leans heavy on dark, choppy loops and hard drums—minimal but effective, giving Payne room to unload his horror vision. His verses are dense and aggressive, full of bark and bite. The features—Nym Lo, Ruste Juxx, Tek—keep the energy sharp without dragging the pace. Some beats feel interchangeable, but Payne’s voice and cadence carry them forward. It’s a blunt record built for volume and head-nods, and Payne sounds like he knows exactly what he wants from it.

Release date: April 11, 2025.

Living Legends - Legendary Music Vol. 3

Legendary Music Vol. 3 brings together the Living Legends crew and a few guests, but the spark that once made their collaborations hit harder feels dulled here. The production leans too often on safe, mid-tempo loops that drift without much punch or identity. Some verses still cut through—Eligh and Scarub bring energy, and Slug drops a solid feature—but too many tracks feel like leftovers rather than fully-formed ideas. The chemistry is scattered, and the sequencing doesn’t help; the momentum slips track to track. There are a couple bright spots worth revisiting, but as a full listen, the album feels uneven. It’s more of a nod to longtime fans than a forward step.

Release date: April 11, 2025.

Kool Kat - Usual Suspectz

Usual Suspectz is a dense, hard-hitting project from Kool Kat, built on raw drum loops, dark loops, and rough-edged sampling that hits like cold pavement. The beats feel hand-dug and dusty, giving the album a lived-in texture that pulls from classic 90s grit without sounding stuck in the past. Kool Kat’s production keeps things tight, letting heavy features like RJ Payne, Estee Nack, and Crimeapple spit with force and control. There’s little wasted space—each track moves with purpose, laced with sharp cuts and no-frills intensity. It’s heavy, rugged Hip Hop made with care and aimed squarely at heads who want it loud and direct.

Release date: April 11, 2025.

Merkules - Survivor's Guilt

Survivor’s Guilt is Merkules at his most focused and heavy-handed. The beats hit with weight—thick drums, distorted guitars, and pianos that sound waterlogged with regret. C-Lance handles most of the production, building a murky atmosphere that gives Merk room to switch between confrontation and confession. On the title track, he opens with a drumless piano loop and a tight verse about surviving trauma when others didn’t. There’s no melodrama—just flat, matter-of-fact pain.

Tracks like “On Guard” with Shaquille O’Neal and “Bawse” with Prof are pure threat energy, with Merkules bulldozing verses over cloudy or boom bap beats. Features are chosen carefully—NHale brings a cool hook to “Wassup,” while Brotha Lynch Hung and X-Raided push “Fight Music” into full chaos. Even D12’s appearance on “Big Bad Bullies” feels raw and locked in.

The pacing is relentless. There’s little polish, but that’s the point. Merkules isn’t chasing trends—he’s laying down bars like a man who’s lived through the worst and made it out spitting. The album is long, sometimes overwhelming, but it never loses its bite. Survivor’s Guilt sounds like someone lighting a cigarette off their past and watching it burn.

Release date: April 11, 2025.

OC from NC - Project 25: The Mandela Effect

Project 25: The Mandela Effect is a continuation of OC from NC’s January drop, and it feels more focused. The beats are raw and grounded—dusty drums, chopped samples, and slow-burning loops that leave space for thought. OC’s delivery stays calm, but there’s weight behind his words. He’s not throwing bars out for effect—he’s speaking plainly, pulling from personal memory and everyday tension.

This isn’t his flashiest work, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s steady, unfiltered, and made for people who actually listen. We liked the January drop, and this one hits harder in its own way. Still, we prefer some of his earlier work better—but OC from NC stays overlooked and worth paying attention to.

Release date: April 9, 2025.

Raw Poetic - The Flow Of Time

The Flow of Time is an introspective, soulful project that highlights Raw Poetic’s versatility as an artist. Entirely self-produced, the album blends live instrumentation with smooth, laid-back beats, creating a rich and organic atmosphere. Tracks like “Peel the Layers” and “Glaring at a Star” feature thoughtful, reflective lyrics delivered with a melodic flow, while “Liquid Soul” and “Midnight Morning” explore deeper, more experimental sounds. Raw Poetic’s ability to play every instrument himself adds a personal touch to the project, giving it a raw, unpolished charm. The album flows effortlessly from track to track, maintaining a consistent vibe that makes for a cohesive listening experience. A truly organic and engaging project, The Flow of Time proves that Raw Poetic’s talent extends far beyond just rhyming.

Release date: April 4, 2025. 

Lil Keke - Legend Hotel

Lil Keke is a Houston staple, with Don’t Mess wit Texas (1997) cementing his place in the city’s rap history. Since then, he’s stuck to the same formula—Houston-flavored rap that rarely disappoints but seldom stands out. Legend Hotel won’t leave a lasting mark either, but it’s worth noting for its lineup of big-name features, including Slim Thug, Paul Wall, and Bun B.

Release date: March 28, 2025.

Young H3roes - H3roes Die Young

H3roes Die Young thrives on sharp lyricism and tight chemistry between Jam Young and H3RO. The duo trades verses effortlessly, weaving personal reflections and battle-ready wordplay over polished production. Tracks move between soulful loops and hard-edged drum breaks, keeping the momentum steady. Guests like Ras Kass and A-F-R-O bring extra firepower, but Jam Young and H3RO hold their ground, flipping creative bars that demand attention. While some beats lack grit, the rhymes carry the weight, packed with energy and clever twists. This album leans into golden-era influences, delivering intricate flows and plenty of moments worth a rewind.

Release date: March 25, 2025.

Curci & Mike Summers - Bento Box

Curci & Mike Summers’ Bento Box delivers sharp lyricism over polished, melodic production. The beats move between smooth, jazz-inflected rhythms and crisp drum work, giving Curci space to weave his verses with precision. Summers’ production keeps things dynamic, layering warm keys and subtle basslines under tightly structured flows. The album maintains steady momentum, balancing introspection with energetic delivery. Guest appearances from artists like Boldy James and Chuuwee add depth. The chemistry between Curci’s laid-back confidence and Summers’ polished beats creates a cohesive listening experience. This is well-crafted Hip Hop, built for focused listening and steady head nods.

Release date: March 21, 2025.

Ayoo Bigz - Unholy Scriptures

Ayoo Bigz’s Unholy Scriptures delivers weighty bars over dark, atmospheric production. The beats hit with raw drum patterns and eerie samples, setting the stage for his grim storytelling. His delivery is forceful, with a steady, commanding presence cutting through heavy instrumentals. Features bring extra energy, but the focus stays on Ayoo Bigz’s gritty lyricism and sharp flow. The album sticks to a menacing tone, with dense rhymes layered over haunting melodies and pounding bass. This is street Hip Hop with a no-nonsense approach, built for listeners who appreciate hard-hitting beats and unapologetic lyricism. Kind of generic, but enjoyable enough.

Release date: March 21, 2025.

J Scienide - Fire At The Philharmonic

Fire at the Philharmonic carries the grit of J Scienide’s visits to Toronto, where much of the music was recorded. The beats move with a dusty elegance—soulful but never too smooth, always grounded in thick  drum loops and well-dug samples. Scienide’s delivery is sharp and measured, threading layered wordplay through every verse. Guest appearances from Daniel Son, Lord Juco, and Asun Eastwood blend naturally into the project’s steady pulse. Tracks stay short, keeping the energy tight and the focus locked in. This is craftsmanship at work, built for listeners who appreciate every detail in the rhymes and production.

Release date: March 21, 2025.

Bishop Nehru - Now Or Never

Bishop Nehru’s Now or Never leans into bass-heavy beats and sample-driven drill rhythms, giving his delivery a fresh edge. “Back Around” moves with synth-heavy trap energy, while “Cash Rules” flips Wu-Tang’s classic with sharp lyricism. “Chocolate Pain” twists internet nostalgia into a playful flex, and “Couldn’t Get By” builds off a familiar West Coast sample. Tracks like “Front!” and “Henny Black” keep the momentum up, blending crisp percussion with confident storytelling. The production dips into cloudy textures and polished loops, balancing intensity with introspection. Nehru keeps his flow tight, shifting between reflection and forward momentum with ease.

Release date: March 21, 2025. 

iNTeLL - Chemical X

iNTeLL’s Chemical X channels a sharp lyrical focus and intricate beats, driven by his distinct approach to Hip Hop. As the son of Wu-Tang Clan’s U-God, he carries that lineage with precision, crafting verses that cut through the layered production. U-God himself appears on the album, his seasoned presence adding weight to the mix. Other guest features blend in naturally, adding texture without overshadowing iNTeLL’s voice. Chemical X is deliberate, energetic, and shaped by a clear artistic vision.

Release date: March 19, 2025.

Smoke DZA - The Barcelona Tape

This project won’t rewrite Hip Hop, but it offers a good time. The beats snap and blaze—some ride low with gritty funk, others flare up with sharp kicks—and most features land clean. Smoke DZA’s gruff drawl weaves through, tossing out lines that stick in your head, clever and cocky. It’s loose, loud, and rolls with a vibe that keeps you locked in—a sweaty, smoke-filled joyride worth cranking up. The lineup’s stacked: 24hrs, Ling Hussle, Flames Dot Malik, Really Jaewon, Bizzle the Bad, DivineRBG. Production pulls heavy—DJ Muggs, Harry Fraud, LetsGoHayes, Pria, Dizzy Banko, Purpdogg, Cartune, John Dutch, Iseekarlo, Kino Beats—all bringing heat.

Release date: March 18, 2025. 

Slim Thug & Propain - Double Cup

Slim Thug and Propain bring classic Houston energy to Double Cup, sticking to the city’s signature syrupy beats and laid-back flow. Slim Thug’s deep, steady presence meshes smoothly with Propain’s dynamic delivery, making for a project that feels both familiar and refreshing.

One of the album’s highlights comes from Z-Ro, whose soulful feature adds another layer of depth to the mix. While Double Cup doesn’t stray far from tradition and offers nothing memorable, it stays true to Houston’s legacy—consistent, authentic, and built for fans who appreciate the city’s unmistakable sound.

Release date: March 14, 2025. 

Velly Marsh & LethalNeedle - Thread The Needle

Velly Marsh and LethalNeedle’s Thread the Needle crackles with a lean, gritty pulse—beats thud low and steady, snares bite crisp, a bare-bones boom-bap frame that hums with Sacramento dust. LethalNeedle keeps it simple—loops coil tight, bass rumbles deep—leaving room for Marsh’s voice to cut through. His flow bends smooth then snaps sharp, a steady roll of introspective bars that wrestle with growth and grit. The mood hangs heavy—quiet storms brew in his delivery—while Tha God Fahim, Dizzy Wright, and Andrew the Anomalous One weave in, adding quick, jagged sparks. It’s a taut, thoughtful ride—short, sturdy, worth the spin.

Release date: March 14, 2025. 

WateRR & Machacha - Almighty II

Chicago’s WateRR teams up again with Danish producer Machacha for Almighty II, a sequel that doesn’t top their best work but still lands heavy. We’ve heard sharper cuts from each—WateRR’s gravelly bark has bitten harder, and Machacha’s beats have swirled darker elsewhere. Even so, this album rises well above the usual churn. Machacha conjures a thick, moody haze— drum kicks roll slow, samples curl like smoke—while WateRR’s rough growl digs into the grooves, gritty and unyielding. It’s a lean, mean listen, worth spinning for anyone hooked on underground Hip Hop’s raw pulse.

Release date: March 14, 2025.

Otis Mensah & the intern - before the noise my cousin

before the noise my cousin moves through hazy, jazz-inflected production with Otis Mensah’s introspective lyricism floating over the intern’s abstract beats. The album drifts between spoken-word poetics and off-kilter rap cadences, shaping a dreamlike atmosphere where memories and emotions dissolve into sound.

The production leans into airy textures—muted horns, soft percussion, and warm synths—giving space for Mensah’s voice to roam. Tracks stretch and contract in unpredictable ways, mirroring the transient themes of youth, identity, and creative struggle. There’s a looseness in the structure, but nothing feels directionless.

Lyrically, Mensah navigates artistic ambition, self-doubt, and the weight of time with a delivery that teeters between urgency and reflection. Guest appearances from Blu, Speech of Arrested Development, and Lando Chill add texture without overshadowing the album’s deeply personal tone.

before the noise my cousin unfolds like a late-night conversation—wandering, vulnerable, and fully committed to artistic freedom.

Release date: March 14, 2025.

Ea$y Money & Phinelia - Drug Money

Drug Money sticks to familiar territory—street raps with a polished edge. Ea$y Money and Phinelia keep it straight to the point, trading bars over beats that hit hard without overcomplicating things. The production stays clean, balancing crisp loops with heavy drums, courtesy of Statik Selektah and company. It’s nothing new, but it doesn’t need to be. For those who never tire of tough guy talk and street wisdom, this delivers exactly what’s expected. Solid, if predictable.

Release date: March 7, 2025.

Dangerous Creatures - Dead Earth 1.0

Dead Earth 1.0 is a dense, futuristic ride through paranoia, destruction, and warped funk. King Kashmere’s commanding presence and vivid lyricism cut through Mimski’s thick, electronic-tinged production, which grinds and pulses like machinery in motion. The beats feel heavy, layered with distorted synths and deep, rolling basslines that create a tense, claustrophobic energy. Guest features expand the sonic palette, adding urgency and unpredictability to the already chaotic atmosphere. This is Hip Hop built for the end times—cold, unrelenting, and full of sharp-edged rhythms that hit like warning sirens echoing through a collapsing world.

Release date: March 7, 2025.

Kool Keith & Dane Uno - The Yoohoo bros.

Kool Keith pulls us in every time—his wild orbit keeps us hooked. The Yoohoo Bros., a quick dip with Dane Uno, doesn’t take up much space in his sprawling catalog, but it’s got bite worth savoring. Keith’s offbeat bars twist through the mix, packed with quirky chants and sly jabs that amplify his signature freaky flair. KutMasta Kurt and Junkaz Lou lay down low, greasy funk with glitchy kicks, locking into Keith’s oddball stride better than his own production, which doesn’t land as strong. Dane Uno glides in smooth, his steady flow blending seamlessly with Keith’s voice. The mood stays loose and weird, but the structure keeps it tight—lean bars over warped grooves. It won’t flip the script, but for Keith diehards, this little project crackles enough to keep the speakers warm.

Release date: March 7, 2025.

Sirrealist - Lotus

Lotus keeps its edges sharp, grounded in hard-hitting beats and deliberate bars. Oxnard rapper Sirrealist moves through the tracks with a measured delivery, his voice steady against production that leans heavy on gritty loops and raw textures. Features from Planet Asia, Flee Lord, and Ghostface Killah add weight without breaking the album’s flow. The beats carry a classic underground feel—dusty drums, haunting samples, and a cold, unpolished energy. Nothing flashy, nothing wasted—Lotus sticks to its lane and keeps the impact direct.

Release date: March 7, 2025. 

Jim Jones - At The Church Steps

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At the Church Steps finds Jim Jones blending reflective storytelling with streetwise energy over a mix of soulful samples, booming drums, and modern drill influences. The production shifts between classic boom bap and more trap-flavored beats, creating a contrast between nostalgia and urgency, though we’re not too crazy about these more trap-leaning tracks. And while some hooks are pretty weak, Jim’s delivery remains steady, balancing confidence with introspection. Gospel elements weave through tracks like “Genesis” and “Church Steps,” reinforcing themes of survival and redemption. The album carries weight but stumbles in spots.

Release date: February 28, 2025. 

Dave East & Ransom - The Final Call

The Final Call brings together Dave East and Ransom for a cold, deliberate take on street rap. The production leans on soul-sampling, layering dramatic loops over steady, knocking drums. Dave East sounds locked in, delivering measured verses with an aggressive but controlled presence. Ransom brings a heavier tone, his delivery sharp and calculated. Tracks like “Exotic Prayer Rugs” and “Soul Food in Mecca” hit hardest, their instrumentals carrying weight without drowning out the vocals. The features are hit-or-miss, but the chemistry between the two main artists keeps the album focused. This is a no-frills release built for replay.

Release date: February 21, 2025. 

Landon Wordswell & Es-K - Remember To Breathe

Remember to Breathe brings Landon Wordswell’s intricate lyricism together with Es-K’s mellow, jazz-infused production. The beats lean on warm keys, dusty drums, and laid-back loops, creating a steady pulse that lets the verses land with weight. Wordswell’s delivery is fluid, shifting between sharp storytelling and reflective moments. He packs his lines with detail, and his flow never lags, keeping the energy consistent. Features from Skyzoo, Talib Kweli, and Blu add texture without overshadowing the main voice. The album moves with purpose, keeping the mood grounded while giving enough space for the instrumentals to breathe. A strong listen throughout.

Release date: February 21, 2025.

FastLife, Madhattan & Spanish Ran - Bergin Hunt & Fish

Bergin Hunt & Fish brings together FastLife, Madhattan, and Spanish Ran for a hard-edged, street-level project that stays locked into its lane. Spanish Ran’s beats are stripped-down and moody, with chopped loops and drums that knock without excess polish. The production carries a grime-streaked tension, giving FastLife and Madhattan the space to deliver their rhymes with weight and precision. Their verses are tough and direct, reflecting a relentless hustle mentality. The album sticks to a familiar underground formula—short runtime, gritty beats, sharp bars, and a no-frills approach—but it’s done with focus and consistency, making it a worthwhile listen for Hip Hop purists.

Release date: February 20, 2025. 

Action Figures Of Speech - Action Figures Of Speech

Fort Wayne MC Sankofa joins Memphis Reigns and JON?DOE on Action Figures Of Speech, a fun 12-track blast. 8Greg2’s beats thump with deep bass and snappy snares, layered with DJ Wally Styles’ sharp scratches. Sankofa’s voice rolls steady, blending with Reigns and JON?DOE’s flows—the mood hums with chill, crew energy, like a late-night rhyme session. Tracks unfold tight and punchy, each beat hitting hard, the structure keeping a brisk pace across the dozen cuts. Sankofa’s relentless grind fuels this collab, the chemistry tight, the sound gritty yet fun. It’s a solid, lively spin worth the listen.

Release date: February 15, 2025. 

MC Homeless - Stay Slick

Stay Slick by MC Homeless is a sharp, offbeat ride through playful wordplay and vivid storytelling. With Marc Live handling the production, the beats hit with a funky, bass-heavy energy that keeps things moving. Tracks like “Stay Slick” and “Funky Fresh Forever” lean into humor and social observations without losing their edge. MC Homeless plays with vocal styles, shifting between laid-back delivery and animated flows. Guest features from Myka 9 and Copywrite add extra flavor, blending with Homeless’s personality without overshadowing it. The album feels like a spontaneous conversation—quick-witted, fun, and always grounded in the groove.

Release date: February 14, 2025.

Nems - America's Sweetheart

Nems’ America’s Sweetheart is another aggressive, boom-bap-heavy project from the self-proclaimed Mayor of Coney Island. The beats hit hard, with grimy production that suits Nems’ gravelly delivery. Tracks like “Go Fat Boy” and “CTE” offer raw, street-level bars, and collaborations with artists like Millyz and Tony Touch bring variety to the album’s sound.

But despite the solid production, the album is weighed down by Nems’ repetitive tough-guy persona. For someone over 40, the endless posturing and juvenile bravado wear thin fast. The “F*** Ya Life” attitude that gave him viral fame feels played out here, especially when paired with the album’s childish cover art—a cartoonish, middle-finger gesture that looks like a teenager’s rebellion rather than the work of a middle-aged man.

There are moments where Nems hints at introspection, like on “Amouna” and “God’s Hands,” but these flashes are quickly overshadowed by more macho posturing and empty threats. The attitude and humor that makes him entertaining as a battle rapper don’t translate as well across an entire project. America’s Sweetheart might satisfy fans of his street-talk schtick, but for listeners looking for more substance, it feels like another missed opportunity to grow beyond the playground tough talk.

Release date: February 14, 2025.

G-Clef Da Mad Komposa & Jus-P - Xavier & Logan

G-Clef Da Mad Komposa & Jus-P’s Xavier & Logan is a solid throwback to ’90s Hip Hop, packed with sharp rhymes and classic beats. The production leans into boom-bap grit, with crisp drums and soulful samples driving each track. Jus-P delivers steady, confident verses while G-Clef’s compositions maintain an engaging, head-nodding energy. The concept, loosely inspired by the comic book duo, doesn’t add much depth and might even distract from the music itself. Still, with a runtime of 55 minutes and a roster of guest appearances that add variety, the album stays entertaining throughout. It’s a straightforward, satisfying listen for fans of classic Hip Hop.

Release date: February 14, 2025. 

Westside Gunn - 12

Westside Gunn’s 12 delivers more of the gritty, off-kilter flair that made the Hitler Wears Hermes series a cult favorite. The production sticks to the grimy, drumless loops fans expect, with Daringer, Conductor Williams, and others crafting beats that are eerie, soulful, and raw. Gunn’s signature high-pitched delivery remains distinct, though the content rarely breaks new ground.

The features lean heavily on Stove God Cook$, Estee Nack, and Brother Tom Sos, who add variety to the otherwise familiar formula. Tracks like “055” and “Health Science” stand out for their smooth, hypnotic backdrops and compelling verses, while “Bury Me with a Stove” brings dark humor and relentless hustle talk.

The album maintains a consistent atmosphere but lacks standout moments that define earlier entries in the series. Gunn’s curatorial instincts are still sharp, yet the smaller feature list and repetitive themes leave parts of the project feeling stagnant.

12 is another solid addition to Gunn’s catalog—gritty, confident, and steeped in Buffalo street ethos. But the formula might be wearing thin. While loyal listeners will appreciate the familiar vibe, others might find themselves wishing for more experimentation or a stronger sense of evolution from the Griselda frontman.

Release date: February 14, 2025. 

Sy Ari Da Kid - The Last Shadow In The Shade

The Last Shadow In The Shade is the final piece in Sy Ari Da Kid’s ‘shadows’ trilogy, bringing together personal reflection and sharp lyricism over laid-back, soulful production. The album moves between smooth melodies and direct, weighty bars, striking a balance between accessibility and depth.

“Quote Unquote” featuring Freeway and Nick Grant channels the Roc-A-Fella era with a mix of grit and emotion, while “Rebellion” with Benny The Butcher and CyHi carries a defiant energy, detailing survival and struggle. Sy Ari’s storytelling remains central, painting vivid scenes of industry battles, personal growth, and resilience.

The beats are warm and easygoing, providing a steady foundation for his introspective lyrics. Without relying on flashy production or gimmicks, the album stays engaging through its honesty and craftsmanship. Sy Ari closes this chapter with confidence, proving once again he is an artist fully in control of his message and style.

Release date: February 7, 2025. 

Dom Pachino - Supernatural

Supernatural sticks to Dom Pachino’s usual style—hard beats and hard bars. The production is solid boom-bap, with raw drums and eerie loops that match his militant delivery. There’s nothing surprising here, but it gets the job done. The energy stays consistent, and his sharp flow keeps things engaging. It doesn’t bring anything new, but for those who follow his work or are deep into the Killarmy catalog, this is another solid addition. If you’re looking for experimental sounds, this won’t be it, but if you want straight, no-nonsense Hip Hop, Supernatural delivers.

Release date: February 7, 2025.

Confucius MC & Bastien Keb - Songs for Lost Travellers

Songs for Lost Travellers drifts through jazz, folk, and Hip Hop with a quiet, reflective energy. Confucius MC delivers measured verses, his voice steady and deliberate, while Bastien Keb’s production moves with a loose, organic flow. Muted horns, soft guitar, and warm bass lines wrap around the vocals, creating a hazy, dreamlike atmosphere. Tracks unfold at their own pace, with live instrumentation adding depth and subtle shifts in mood. The album feels intimate, like late-night conversations and lost thoughts taking shape over delicate melodies. It’s a patient, immersive listen that rewards attention with layers of detail and emotion.

Release date: February 7, 2025.

The Bad Seed & Murda Megz - From Us With Love

From Us With Love by underground veteran The Bad Seed and producer Murda Megz delivers hard-hitting beats and sharp rhymes rooted in classic New York underground Hip Hop. Murda Megz lays down gritty, soulful production, with tracks like “Watermelon Chunx” and “Wonderful” hitting hard thanks to raw samples and sharp cuts from Tone Spliff. The Bad Seed moves through the album with confidence, offering vivid street narratives and biting social commentary. “The Day the Internet Died” stands out with its humor and sharp perspective, while “Rae & Ghost” pays homage with slick storytelling. It’s a tough, straightforward project with no wasted moments.

Release date: February 6, 2025.

Handsome Gentlemen - FILMED BY QUENTIN TARANTINO

FILMED BY QUENTIN TARANTINO twists boom-bap into something hazy and surreal. Cut Beetlez dial back their usual punchy throwback boom-bap production, layering eerie samples and warped melodies over unhurried drums. Handsome Gentlemen—HP JASS and THEFOODLORD—navigate these beats with a loose, unpredictable delivery, their voices shifting between sharp and sluggish like old VHS tapes glitching mid-scene. Guest verses slip in and out, adding more textures to the album’s disjointed energy. Tracks linger, never rushing to their conclusions, building a hypnotic effect. The album pulls from classic Hip Hop while warping it into something stranger, making for an off-kilter, immersive listen.

Release date: February 1, 2025.

Farma G - How To Kill A Butterfly

How to Kill a Butterfly is Farma G’s first solo album, but his pedigree in UK Hip Hop is long-established. As part of Task Force, his intricate rhyme patterns and unfiltered storytelling helped shape a sound that still looms large over the scene. Here, he steps out alone, but there’s no hesitation—his delivery is sharp, his presence commanding.

Across 13 tracks, Farma G moves between eerie, dreamlike loops and raw, hard-hitting drums, his voice carrying weight and wear. Some beats creep forward with an unsettling stillness, others knock with force, keeping the momentum unpredictable. His lyrics unfold in twisting, layered patterns, loaded with meaning and experience. There’s no sense of chasing trends or looking over his shoulder—this is an artist fully in his own lane. How to Kill a Butterfly is direct, uncompromising, and rooted in a lineage that Farma G helped build.

Release date: January 31, 2025.

Circa 97 - Sicilian Summer

Sicilian Summer moves with a steady, hypnotic pace, built on rich loops and precise drumwork. UK-based producer Circa 97 pulls from jazz and soul, layering warm chords and subtle textures beneath weighty verses. The beats carry a sense of movement, shifting between stripped-down arrangements and fuller compositions with a natural flow.

The album brings together a sharp lineup of MCs—Tha God Fahim, Daniel Son, Lord Juco, and more—each delivering with purpose. Their voices cut through the instrumentals, adding grit and depth. Sicilian Summer is focused, refined, and deeply rooted in Hip Hop’s past while staying locked into the present.

Release date: January 28, 2025.

Boldy James - Permanent Ink

Permanent Ink is Boldy James’ second album of the year, and January wasn’t even over—quantity over quality seems to be his current philosophy. The Detroit rapper continues his relentless output, but this project feels half-formed, much like his previous release. The production leans into slower, brooding beats that suit Boldy’s signature delivery, but the tracks rarely develop beyond their initial loops. There are moments that work, with songs like “SAMY” and “Dawn Mega” showing his steady pen and ear for moody instrumentals, but the album’s short length and repetitive structure leave little lasting impact. Boldy has proven he can deliver standout work with projects like Manger On McNichols (2020) and Bo Jackson (2021), but this effort feels more like another placeholder release than a fully realized statement. While not without its highlights, Permanent Ink struggles to bring anything fresh to the table, making it easy to forget once it’s over.

Release date: January 24, 2025.

Anitek & Tabinstereo - Indigo Immaculate

Indigo Immaculate brings together Anitek’s layered boom-bap production with Tabinstereo’s versatile style, creating a project that blends smooth beats, precise cuts, and steady rhymes. The instrumentals carry a laid-back, jazzy feel, with soulful touches and a steady groove that keeps the energy moving. Scratches and samples are woven in with purpose, adding texture without feeling overdone. Tabinstereo’s delivery fits well, balancing between thoughtful lyricism and effortless flow. At fourteen short tracks, the album moves quickly, leaving an impression without overstaying its welcome. It’s a well-crafted listen that offers plenty to appreciate without feeling too heavy or overproduced.

Release date: January 22, 2025.

Benny Holiday - Holiday Land

Holiday Land by Benny Holiday delivers a smooth, concise collection of tracks that blends classic Hip Hop with modern flair. The project runs just over 30 minutes, leaving you wanting more, but it packs a punch in its short runtime. Benny’s lyrical style flows effortlessly over the hard-hitting beats provided by Snowgoons, with guest appearances from Conway the Machine, Lil Flip, and others. Each track hits with precision, offering a mix of gritty rhymes and sharp production. While it may feel lightweight in length, the album’s energy and strong collaborations make it an engaging listen for any Hip Hop fan.

Release date: January 17, 2025.

Mac Miller - Balloonerism

We’ve never been big fans of Mac Miller, though we can recognize his artistry and the appeal his music holds for many. Balloonerism, his second posthumous album, is a good piece of music, even if his sing-song rapping style isn’t quite our thing. The album—recorded in 2014 but never released—features a loose, relaxed sound driven by smooth basslines and hazy, melancholic production, that feels intimate and unforced. Tracks like “Mrs. Deborah Downer” and “Stoned” create an almost languid vibe, with subtle grooves that draw you in despite their downbeat moods. Miller’s vocals here, slow and wistful, build a sense of introspection, especially when layered with Thundercat’s bass or the dusty drums. The music feels personal, more like an exploration of Miller’s emotional space than something crafted for broad appeal. It’s not flashy or overproduced, and it’s a mood piece—comfortable, but never settling into easy territory. Fans of his mellow, soul-infused Hip Hop will find much to appreciate.

Release date: January 17, 2025.

BoFaatBeatz - Here for Tha Rap Killin

Here for Tha Rap Killin by German producer BoFaatBeatz delivers a solid collection of mellow boom-bap beats with a laid-back vibe that suits the mood, even if the production never quite pushes beyond the basic groove. The real draw of this album lies in its impressive list of guest features. With appearances from Hip Hop heavyweights like Nine, Hus Kingpin, Smif-N-Wessun, Craig G, Recognize Ali, Eddie Kaine, Frukwan, and Edo G, the tracklist is packed with talent that brings varied styles and flows to the project. While the production doesn’t create standout moments, the stacked feature list makes the album an engaging listen for anyone who enjoys classic, no-frills Hip Hop with plenty of sharp bars and solid beats.

Release date: January 17, 2025.

Redline The Ace - Origin Story

This 90s-centric boom-bap album delivers straightforward but enjoyable beats. While not groundbreaking, it’s a solid listen. Guest appearances by Ren Thomas, RJ Payne, Spit Gemz, and The Bad Seed add extra flavor, and production from the likes of Solo for Dolo, Audio Rohn, Magic Hands, Jay Ferg, and Sound Professor guarantees a set of dope beats. The most special aspect of this project is the iconic Rob Swift’s crisp cuts and scratches. Recommended for throwback Hip Hop fans.

Release date: January 13, 2025.

M.W.P. - Temple Of Roses

Temple of Roses is a concise producer album from Denmark’s M.W.P. Dusty. The largely drumless instrumentals provide an atmospheric backdrop for rhymes from well-regarded underground MCs like SageInfinite, Tha God Fahim, Nowaah the Flood, Ty Farris, Mark 4ord, Bub Rock, Bless Picasso, Justo the MC, Ill Conscious, and the late Senica Da Misfit. DJ Grazzhoppa’s cuts, featured on most tracks, add a welcome texture to the project. While there’s nothing here you haven’t heard before, it makes for an enjoyable enough listen.

Release date: January 9, 2025.

Eddie Kaine & Rim - Welcome To Stuyville

Welcome to Stuyville by Eddie Kaine and Rim delivers gritty, streetwise lyricism over heavy, atmospheric production. The album thrives on its raw energy and unfiltered storytelling, capturing the essence of Brooklyn’s Marcy and Stuyvesant neighborhoods.

Camoflauge Monk and 38 Spesh craft ominous, boom-bap backdrops that underscore the duo’s verses, with tracks like “What’s This” and “Ice Cold” setting the tone. Standout collaborations, including “Salute” with Benny the Butcher and the reflective “Made Men” featuring the late Fred the Godson, elevate the project. While the beats occasionally blur together, the cohesive mood and sharp rhymes make this a solid little slice of street-level Hip Hop.

Release date: January 8, 2025.

Jon Conner - Food For The Soul

Food For The Soul by Jon Connor is a personal project blending introspective lyricism with a rich palette of soulful, jazzy, and occasionally trap-inspired beats. The album explores themes of resilience, self-awareness, and growth, offering listeners a sense of optimism and grounding through its thoughtfully crafted tracks.

From the uplifting opener “We’re Gonna Be Okay” to the raw grit of “413,” Connor’s sharp storytelling shines against the dynamic production. Tracks like “Take Flight” celebrate triumph over adversity, while “The Great Design (Key Elements of Love)” delves into themes of divine connection and human bonds. Collaborations with artists like Daylyt, Stalley, and Termanology add dimension without overshadowing Connor’s vision.

With its vibrant mix of melodies and compelling narratives, Food For The Soul delivers a solid and grounded—if not very memorable—listening experience.

Release date: January 3, 2025.

Boldy James & RichGains - Murder During Drug Traffic

Boldy James’ rap style can be divisive. His delivery is steady, almost conversational, and while his voice has been called monotone, Boldy’s ability to weave vivid narratives and deliver consistently thoughtful bars is undeniable. Yet, Murder During Drug Traffic, his latest effort with producer RichGains, doesn’t fully capitalize on his strengths.

The album opens with promise. On “Achilles,” Boldy’s reflective verses glide over a rich sample, creating a mood that’s equal parts introspective and engaging. “Janky” is another highlight, where Boldy maneuvers deftly over one of RichGains’ more beats. However, as the album progresses, the production starts to falter. By the back half of the album, RichGains’ beats lose the spark they showed early on, resulting in tracks that blur together without leaving much of an impression.

Boldy’s lyrical consistency is the glue holding the album together, but even his strongest efforts can’t fully compensate for the lackluster production choices. While there’s not a truly bad song on the record, the cohesion and intrigue established at the start begin to dissipate. For all its smoothness and style, Murder During Drug Traffic struggles to maintain momentum, ultimately feeling like a missed opportunity for both artist and producer.

This project will likely resonate with die-hard fans of Boldy James’ laid-back delivery, but it’s unlikely to convert new listeners or stand out in a discography filled with sharper pairings between rapper and producer.

Release date: January 3, 2024. 

OC from NC - Project 25

On Project 25, OC from NC continues to demonstrate his skillful lyricism and introspection, though the project feels lighter compared to standout works like Higher Learning (2015), It’s Not You, It’s Me (2018), and The Black Phillip Tape (2021). The album is grounded in OC’s signature style—sharp storytelling and smooth flows over soulful boom-bap beats.

While the production maintains a steady groove with soulful samples and gritty drum patterns, it lacks some of the depth and variation found in his strongest projects. That said, OC’s effortless delivery and knack for vivid imagery ensure that Project 25 is still engaging and easy to listen to.

Even if it doesn’t reach the heights of his best work, this release underscores why OC from NC remains one of North Carolina’s most consistent and underrated voices in Hip Hop.

Release date: January 1, 2025.

Vast Aire & Cosmiq - Aireplane

Aireplane pairs Vast Aire with producer Cosmiq for a 53-minute journey that occasionally finds its footing but often struggles to soar. While the album bears the Cannibal Ox branding in its artwork, it is in fact a Vast Aire solo project, with a minimal contribution from Cannibal Ox partner Vordul Mega.

Cosmiq’s production provides a mix of gritty textures and spacey undertones, evoking a futuristic and at the same time grounded feel. Some beats capture the raw energy reminiscent of early Cannibal Ox, but others are less dynamic, leaving moments of the album sounding flat. Vast Aire’s delivery, typically known for its off-kilter charm, lacks the fire and sharpness that defined his best work on the Cannibal Ox 2001 classic The Cold Vein.

While there are flashes of lyrical prowess and nostalgic nods to The Cold Vein, the overall execution feels uneven. Aireplane offers moments of intrigue but doesn’t quite reach the level fans might have hoped for.

Release date: January 1, 2025.