1. E L U C I D - REVELATOR

ELUCID’s REVELATOR is a bold statement from the New York emcee, elevating his already impressive discography into uncharted territory. Known for his work with the duo Armand Hammer alongside billy woods, this album sees ELUCID stepping confidently into his own artistic vision. After a strong solo debut with Save Yourself (2016) and the introspective follow-up I Told Bessie (2022) this latest effort places him on a new level of artistry, on par with the best of Armand Hammer and even billy woods’ most lauded solo work.

From the outset, REVELATOR hooks you with its raw and industrial sound, setting a tone of unpredictability. “The World is Dog” opens the album with glitchy textures, heavy with layers of sound that shift like tectonic plates. The production, driven by ELUCID himself with contributions from avant-garde talents like Jon Nellen, August Fanon, Child Actor, DJ Haram, and The Lasso, builds an atmosphere that’s disorienting but compelling. His voice, deep and commanding, cuts through the distorted electronics and eerie beats, providing a stark anchor in an otherwise chaotic soundscape.

Tracks like “CCTV,” featuring Creature, and “Slum of a Disregard” push the sonic boundaries further, marrying live instrumentation with electronic dissonance. The persistent drumbeats and deep basslines give these tracks a vitality that keeps the listener engaged, with ELUCID’s abstract lyricism drawing you into the depths of his observations about a world teetering on collapse. The themes of resistance, systemic decay, and societal breakdown are ever-present but never feel heavy-handed. Instead, they simmer under the surface, emerging in moments of sharp clarity, as in the potent “RFID” and the grim “Bad Pollen.”

REVELATOR‘s seamless integration of diverse sonic elements is top-notch. Avant-jazz, industrial noise, ambient drones, and glitch-heavy beats blend with live instrumentation, creating a dynamic that feels meticulously crafted but spontaneous at the same time. Tracks like “Instant Transfer” with billy woods and “Ikebana” highlight this, where the production shifts between sparse and suffocating, matching the lyrical intensity. There’s a tension in the music that mirrors the world ELUCID is speaking to, a reality marked by exploitation, conflict, and survival.

Lyrically, ELUCID  is at his sharpest, wielding his deep, commanding voice like an instrument in itself, balancing the abstract and the personal. Thematically, he dives into issues of systemic oppression, political violence, and survival, offering fragmented reflections on identity, power, and the fragile state of the world. On “Bad Pollen,” for example, his bars paint a vivid picture of persistence and determination amid adversity, while billy woods’ verse adds layers of cynical resignation. Lines like “I squeeze my children’s hand and walk hard against the wind” capture ELUCID ’s ability to distill complex emotions into brief yet powerful imagery, creating moments of clarity within the album’s dense structure.

His wordplay, often dense and layered, never feels overwrought. Instead, there’s an economy to his writing that makes his statements hit harder. On “Ikebana,” he delivers lines like, “I make gorgeous babies but I’m done makin’ N-words,” evoking themes of legacy, identity, and the complexities of fatherhood in just a few words. Throughout REVELATOR, his lyrics oscillate between introspective reflections and sharp social critique, always with a sense of urgency.

The final stretch of the album offers some of its most powerful moments. “14.4” with Skech185 merges frantic drums and distorted basslines with meditations on race and power. “Xolo” and “Zigzagzig” close the album with haunting, industrial soundscapes that feel almost apocalyptic, leaving the listener in a space of reflection. DJ Haram’s production on “Zigzagzig” pushes ELUCID’s voice to the forefront, where he grapples with themes of resistance and international struggle, particularly his solidarity with Palestine.

REVELATOR is a fearless exploration of sound and meaning, where every track brings something unexpected, yet essential, to the table. The production is lush and experimental, often veering in new directions while maintaining cohesion. ELUCID’s ability to draw from a wide range of influences—from free jazz to noise to industrial Hip Hop—without losing his identity makes this album so impactful. It’s a record that feels both timely and timeless, reflecting the dissonance of the modern world while hinting at something greater beneath the surface.

In short, REVELATOR is not just a standout in ELUCID’s solo and group catalog—it’s a major statement in the history of underground Hip Hop.

Release date: October 11, 2024.

2. Tyler, The Creator - Chromakopia

Tyler, the Creator’s Chromakopia dives deep into the shadows of his psyche, blending chaos with personal reflection and maturity. Known for his visual and musical storytelling flair, Tyler crafts each song on Chromakopia like a piece of shattered glass, showing us complex new angles of his ever-evolving mind. Pulling from a rich mix of electronic, jazz, soul, R&B, and Hip Hop, he pushes into familiar and unsettling territory, echoing the warm stylings of Flower Boy (2017)  but with a darker, moodier lens.

The album feels like a feverish confessional, masked but raw. Tyler’s lyrics are brimming with introspection, tackling adulthood, aging, and fame, capturing a journey marked by highs, lows, and fear for what’s to come. He’s not rapping about global escapades or flaunting fame here; instead, he’s reflecting on his legacy, relationships, and even ideas about fatherhood. Tracks like “Take Your Mask Off” peel back the bravado, encouraging characters (and maybe himself) to strip away their facades. Songs like “Noid” carry a textured, reflective weight, where his lyrics expose anxieties and the pressures fame brings, while “Darling, I” and “Like Him” explore familial connections with a softer yet hauntingly sincere tone.

Musically, Tyler balances forceful Hip Hop moments with lush, R&B-infused soundscapes. The production swings between vibrant and minimal, occasionally missing the immersive depth fans may have come to expect after IGOR (2019). Even so, the subtle production on Chromakopia doesn’t detract; it channels attention back to his lyrics and themes, where Tyler’s evolution as a mature artist shines. Collaborations add fresh layers, from Doechii’s electric verses to Schoolboy Q’s gritty edge, each offering Tyler the space to explore.

With tracks like “Rah Tah Tah,” Tyler dials into pure energy, while songs like “Hey Jane” paint softer, more reflective scenes, evoking a sense of impermanence. Tyler’s mother narrates the album, rooting the record in personal history and a reminder of his journey so far. The album’s mix of themes—from love and fame to internal struggle—evokes a blend of melancholy and resilience. It’s as if Tyler is opening the door on the later chapters of his life, one where he steps out of character while grappling with the permanence of legacy.

Chromakopia is a layered experience, challenging but deeply authentic, embracing Tyler’s growth and offering glimpses of a raw, often chaotic human story. If anything, Chromakopia marks a point where Tyler’s work feels freer than ever—familiar but unconventionally real.

Release date: October 28, 2024. 

3. Freddie Gibbs - You Only Die 1nce

Freddie Gibbs dropped another banger with You Only Die 1nce, proving he’s still got that fire. While his collabs with Madlib and The Alchemist are modern classics, this solo joint holds its own. Despite rolling with a squad of different beatmakers here, the album flows smooth like butter. Gibbs keeps it tight from start to finish, serving up that raw, uncut flavor we’ve come to expect. His flow is relentless, riding over tranquil beats that hit just right.

This isn’t an earth-shattering, game-changing record, but it’s solid gold from front to back. Gibbs gets personal, diving deep into his past and paying respects to fallen rappers. The production is chill, letting Freddie’s bars take center stage. No features, no gimmicks – just Gibbs doing what he does best. While it might not reach the heights of Piñata (2104) or Bandana (2019) it’s a strong project without a doubt. The beats might not be as memorable as his Madlib collab projects, but they provide the perfect backdrop for Gibbs to flex his lyrical muscles.

You Only Die 1nce is a dope 37-minute ride through Gibbs’ world, exhibiting his unmatched flow and introspective side. It’s a grounded, no-nonsense project that proves Freddie Gibbs is still one of the most consistent voices in Hip Hop today. This album has us hyped for whatever he’s cooking up next, especially if Montana, the long-teased third collaboration with Madlib, is on the horizon.

Release date: October 31, 2024. 

4. Rome Streetz & Daringer - Hatton Garden Holdup

Rome Streetz teams up with Daringer for Hatton Garden Holdup, a gritty, 42-minute boom-bap project that stays true to the essence of underground Hip Hop. Daringer’s production creates the perfect backdrop for Rome’s sharp lyricism, balancing eerie, stripped-down beats with gritty boom-bap elements that fans have come to expect from both artists. The album kicks off with “Ace of Base,” where Rome flexes his experience in the drug game over a drumless beat. Tracks like “Starbvxkz” and “Drive By” maintain that rugged street energy, while “Sage,” featuring ScHoolboy Q, highlights both MCs’ dedication to the game.

Guest appearances from Meyhem Lauren, Conway the Machine, and Cormega bring extra weight to the album. Songs like “Pro Tro” and “Weight of the World” showcase these collaborations over dusted kicks and snares, adding to the project’s raw energy. “100 Schemes” warns against industry pitfalls, while “Spike” calls out those stuck in the same place for too long.

Rome’s consistency shines here, with some of his sharpest bars yet. While it might not break new ground, Hatton Garden Holdup offers exactly what fans of both Rome Streetz and Daringer crave—hard beats, gritty flows, and top-tier lyricism. A strong, no-nonsense addition to both artists’ catalogs.

Release date: October 4, 2024.

5. Kurious & Mono En Stereo - Majician

Kurious is a 54-year-old rapper from the Upper West Side of Manhattan, who has been a well-known name in underground Hip Hop for decades. After his debut A Constipated Monkey (1994) on Columbia Records, he took a long hiatus before returning with the forgettable II (2009). Real heads will know Kurious though, if not for his low-key classic debut album, then for his appearance on MF DOOMS’s underground monument Operation: Doomsday on the track “?”.

For Majician, released on Rhymesayers Entertainment, Kurious benefits of the late MF DOOM‘s influence, who oversaw the coming to life of this project before his passing in 2020, obviously before Majician‘s completion. DOOM’s touch can be felt throughout the album though, especially in the intricate, almost puzzle-like structure of many tracks.

Majician blends introspective lyrics with Mono En Stereo’s nostalgic production that pays homage to DOOM’s influence. Tracks like “Unknown Species” and “Untainted” exhibit Kurious’ ability to weave sharp rhymes over jazz and funk-infused beats. “Eye of Horus” offers historical insights while “Separation Anxiety” dives into personal reflection, exploring inner struggles with a raw, synth-driven backdrop.

The album highlights include “Bacalao Opera,” which emphasizes protecting one’s vision, and “Par for the Course,” featuring Mr. Fantastik, revitalizing classic drum breaks. Kurious maintains his signature wit on tracks like “1984”, taking the listener on a nostalgic journey with Kurious reflecting on the b-boy era over a retro sample, and he explores deeper themes on “Cow’s Eye” and “Teach & Forgive.”

The album closes with “Come Back,” addressing the pursuit of success amidst chaos. Majician is a dope LP, that reaffirms Kurious’ standing as a seasoned lyricist, combining technical skill with thoughtful storytelling. This project is a tribute to his legacy and a powerful addition to his catalog, no doubt one of his best works.

Release date: October 18, 2024.

6. Mutant Academy - Keep Holly Alive

Mutant Academy’s Keep Holly Alive is a striking debut that puts the Richmond collective’s talent on full display. Known for their deep ties to the city’s underground Hip Hop scene, the crew delivers an album filled with raw energy and effortless chemistry. Fly Anakin, Henny L.O., and Big Kahuna Og lead the charge, trading relentless bars over production that draws heavily from jazz and soul. The beats, handled by an in-house lineup of producers including Ohbliv, Graymatter, Foisey, and others, create a hazy yet sharp atmosphere that suits the rappers perfectly.

Fly Anakin’s distinct, technical delivery slices through the rich production, while Big Kahuna Og’s Dipset-inspired flow and Henny L.O.’s smoother, sing-songy style add flavor to the mix. They sound completely in sync, effortlessly bouncing off each other with no need for hooks to break up the rhythm. The album thrives on this natural back-and-forth, staying true to Hip Hop’s essence while adding modern twists.

The decision to keep features limited, with only Quelle Chris making an appearance, allows the core trio to shine. Each track feels personal, a reflection of their tight-knit brotherhood and shared vision. Tracks like “Fate on My Side” and “Fatherless Flow” are built on deep, moody beats that evoke the spirit of East Coast Hip Hop, while others, like “Paranoid,” add a dreamier layer to the album’s sound.

Keep Holly Alive is a celebration of the crew’s artistry and the rich culture of Richmond itself, a city too often overlooked in discussions of Hip Hop’s landscape.

Release date: October 8, 2024.

7. Vic Spencer & August Fanon - Psychological Cheat Sheet 5

Vic Spencer, the prolific Chicago emcee, has released a wealth of strong projects, but his collaborations in the Spencer For Hire series with SonnyJim and the Psychological Cheat Sheet with August Fanon series are among his best work. The latest entry, Psychological Cheat Sheet 5, is one of the highlights of the series, featuring Vic’s sharp lyricism paired with August Fanon’s exceptional production.

This album excels in its storytelling, exploring Vic’s youth, experiences in group homes, and his musical influences. The production may be the finest in the series, and Vic’s lyrical talent shines through, filled with recurring themes and self-referential callbacks. His pen game is strong, crafting intricate verses that invite deeper listening. Psychological Cheat Sheet 5 is an essential listen for fans of thoughtful and well-crafted Hip Hop.

Release date: October 29, 2024. 

8. Benny The Butcher & 38 Spesh - Stabbed & Shot 2

Even if all that plug-and-brick talk might seem played out at this point, it’s still compelling enough coming from Benny the Butcher, a leading figure in the gritty street rap underground. While this niche in Hip Hop has seen countless similar projects over the years, Benny has stood out since his 2018 neo-classic Tana Talk 3, which helped shape the subgenre. Partnering again with 38 Spesh, known for his production skills and solid mic presence, they deliver a powerful sequel with Stabbed & Shot 2, which surpasses both the first installment and Benny’s recent Everybody Can’t Go.

Stabbed & Shot 2 kicks off with “Still Better” and then moves into “1st of April,” where V Don’s boom-bap beats complement Benny and Spesh as they affirm their street credibility. “High Stakes” continues the dark, gritty vibe, while “Thruway Music 2” picks up where its predecessor left off. Tracks like “Who Really the King?” and “Center Stage” reveal the duo’s reflections on loyalty and living the street life, with Harry Fraud’s soulful production shining through.

The album’s singles, “Jesus Arms” featuring Busta Rhymes and “Brick Specials,” highlight Benny and Spesh’s ability to weave mobster themes and cinematic lifestyles into their lyrics. “Hometown Hero” pays homage to their roots in Buffalo and Rochester, and collaborations with Dave East, Klass Murda, and O.T. the Real on tracks like “Bad Guy” and “Internal Affairs” showcase their raw, unfiltered style.

“Coke Runs” with Ransom and “Watchlist” continue the album’s narrative of risk and reward, while the closer “Power” featuring Elcamino addresses the divisive nature of power. Over the six years since their first collaboration, both Benny and Spesh have grown and evolved, making Stabbed & Shot 2 a rare sequel that not only lives up to but surpasses the original, reaffirming their status as experienced street poets.

Where Benny’s Everybody Can’t Go partly aimed for a more mainstream sound, Stabbed & Shot 2 brings him back to the gritty, underground style where he truly shines. Together with 38 Spesh, Benny delivers one of the year’s finest street rap projects.

Release date: October 18, 2024.

9. Philmore Greene - Stay Gone

Philmore Greene’s latest offering maintains his reputation for delivering thoughtful, mature Hip Hop. While Stay Gone carries his signature style of conscious lyricism over boom-bap production, it doesn’t quite match the excellence of Cost of Living (2022) with Apollo Brown or his powerful debut Chicago: A Third World City (2018). At a compact 34 minutes, the album feels somewhat lighter in substance compared to his best work, though it still delivers quality throughout. Standout tracks “OMG” and “Money Over Vegas Story” demonstrate Greene’s sharp pen game, while the rest of the tracklist provides a steady stream of well-crafted Hip Hop cuts. Though slightly less memorable than some of his earlier releases, Stay Gone proves Greene’s ability to craft meaningful music hasn’t diminished.

Release date: October 25, 2024. 

Honorable Mentions

• DJ Muggs, Crimeapple & RLX – Los Pollos Hermanos
• Squeegie Oblong & Chuck Chan – Upset Antagonists
• AKAI SOLO – DREAMDROPDRAGON
• Sage Poet – Keepers Of The Garden
• Kiamo – A Malcolm Story
• Swamp Thing – Slap Slap
• G.S. Advance – Lycanthropy
• 7xvethegenius – Death Of Deuce
• Mr. Cliffnote – Duly Noted
• Lord OLO & Televangel – Demon Slayer
• Joell Ortiz & The Heatmakerz – W.A.R. (With All Respect)
• Bizarre & Foul Mouth – He Got A Gun 4 (HGG4)
• Marcus D – The Keeper
• Daniel Son & Finn – Hare Brained Schemes
• Moka Only, Alcynoos & Parental – AMALAMA
• Sadistik – At Night The Silence Eats Me
• Brainorchestra – The Stone Tablet
• King Magnetic – Third Time’s A Charm
• South Park Coalition – The Ties That Bind Us