21. billy woods - The Chalice (2004)

The Chalice (2004), billy woods’ sophomore album, offers a glimpse of his raw, unpolished talent before he became a defining voice in underground Hip Hop a decade later. While it doesn’t reach the lyrical heights of his later works, this project still contains enough sharp bars and vivid imagery to hold its own. With a runtime of 72 minutes, the album is admittedly longer than necessary, and some tracks might feel excessive. However, songs like “Mind Control,” “Gourmet,” “Pit & The Pendulum,” and “Magic” showcase the early brilliance of woods’ writing, even if it’s rough around the edges.

The production is gritty, with a distinct underground feel that aligns with woods’ style, echoing that era’s experimental, hard-hitting sound. For listeners already familiar with woods’ later projects from the 2010s, The Chalice is worth exploring to see his foundational work. However, newcomers may want to first immerse themselves in his more refined output before circling back to this record. The Chalice is a solid entry in billy woods’ catalog, one that stands as an essential part of his early evolution. | 6.5/10

20. billy woods - Camouflage (2003)

Camouflage (2003), billy woods’ debut, is a key milestone both in his career and in the history of underground Hip Hop, marking the beginning of the Backwoodz Studioz label. While it’s not as refined or impactful as his later works, Camouflage still holds weight with its dark, gritty sound and dense lyricism. With contributions from Cannibal Ox’s Vordul Mega and production that feels like it could have come out of the Def Jux era, the album embodies that early 2000s NYC underground vibe.

At 20 tracks, Camouflage is a bit lengthy, and the pacing can drag at times, but the consistency in woods’ writing and storytelling is impressive for a debut. Tracks like “The Things They Carried,” “Amazing Grace,” “Dirge,” and “Undeclared Wars” give a glimpse into his lyrical abilities, already formidable at this early stage. While billy woods would later build a more polished body of work, Camouflage is a fascinating look at his beginnings and a crucial release for anyone interested in tracing his evolution. | 6.5/10

19. E L U C I D - I Told Bessie (2022)

I Told Bessie (2022) is ELUCID’s second solo album, and it plays like a personal testament to his roots and the impact of his grandmother, Bessie Hall. ELUCID stands tall on his own here, delivering an abstract, but deeply introspective project that blends eerie, experimental production with his distinct delivery. The production lineup is stacked, with contributions from heavyweights like The Alchemist, Child Actor, and Kenny Segal, among others. This variety of producers adds texture to the album, but the sound remains cohesive—dark, dusty, and warped.

ELUCID’s lyricism on I Told Bessie is as complex and cryptic as ever, requiring multiple listens to catch all the nuances. He raps with confidence and control, his unorthodox style pulling listeners into his world while leaving plenty of room for interpretation. Guest features from Pink Siifu, Quelle Chris, and billy woods add layers without overshadowing the album’s introspective core.

While I Told Bessie isn’t always an easy or immediate listen, it’s rewarding in its depth and craft. ELUCID balances abstract lyricism with a personal narrative, making it a solid entry in an impressive solo and group catalog. | 7/10

18. billy woods - Terror Management (2019)

Terror Management (2019), billy woods’ second release of that year, feels like a stark contrast to the intensity of Hiding Places, released a couple of months earlier. Terror Management is dark and fragmented, with a grim sense of humor running through its bleak narratives. The production, handled by a variety of contributors including Preservation, Blockhead, and Messiah Muzik, creates an eerie, disjointed atmosphere that mirrors the chaotic nature of the times woods reflects on. The beats can feel understated at times, with some tracks lacking the punch that made Hiding Places so gripping.

The lyrical content, however, is classic billy woods—dense, sardonic, and full of sharp social commentary. Terror Management presents a world of decaying systems, environmental collapse, and social unrest, all delivered with woods’ signature wit and insight. Tracks like “Western Education Is Forbidden” and “Myth” highlight his ability to make sharp critiques of modern society without losing the personal, introspective elements that make his writing so compelling.

While it may not hit as hard as Hiding Places, Terror Management still is an impressive piece of work. For those familiar with billy woods’ catalog, the album provides more of what listeners have come to expect from him—complex lyricism layered over unconventional production. It may not be as immediately gripping as some of his other releases, but it’s a solid album – even middle-of-the-road billy woods is better than most of others rappers best. | 7/10

17. billy woods - Dour Candy (2013)

Dour Candy (2013) might not have the same weight as its predecessor History Will Absolve Me, but it’s still a standout release, especially in the context of early 2010s Hip Hop. This was woods’ first full-length collaboration with Blockhead, and the production is noticeably smoother than the darker, grittier soundscapes woods often raps over. Blockhead’s beats are clean and choppy, giving Dour Candy a calmer feel, which contrasts with the intensity of woods’ dense lyrics.

The album dives into a mix of themes, touching on nightlife, relationships, and city life, with woods’ usual vivid imagery. There’s a blend of personal and fictional narratives that can be hard to parse, but that’s part of what makes woods’ writing so intriguing. Tracks like “Tumbleweed” and “One Thousand One Nights” are lyrical gems, and the guest features from Aesop Rock, ELUCID, and Open Mike Eagle enhance the project without overshadowing it.

Though Dour Candy might not hit as hard as some of woods’ other projects, it’s an album that reveals more layers with every listen. Tracks like “Gilgamesh” and “Tinseltown” stand out as essential billy woods cuts, and the album overall is one of the many compelling chapters in his catalog.| 7/10

16. Armand Hammer - Race Music (2013)

Race Music (2013) is the first of three powerful releases by Armand Hammer during the 2010s, marking the beginning of a distinct and challenging journey. As with much of billy woods and ELUCID’s work, this album demands repeated listens to fully grasp its depth. Its intricate layers unfold over time, making it an intense yet rewarding experience.

The album is packed with vivid and sometimes fragmented imagery, driven by the duo’s complex lyricism. Their words are abstract yet pointed, often leaving listeners to connect the dots. The production matches this intensity. Heavy, plodding beats and unpredictable electronics create a dark, immersive atmosphere that feels deliberately unsettling. The sound is as dense and unconventional as the lyrics, amplifying the weight of the subject matter.

With seventeen tracks, Race Music isn’t a quick or easy listen, but for those willing to dig deep into its esoteric world, it’s a treasure trove. Tracks like “New Museum” and “Willie Bosket” exemplify the group’s thought-provoking style, tackling themes like race, power, and identity in a manner that feels both cryptic and incisive. While not for the casual listener, Race Music is essential for anyone looking to explore the outer edges of experimental Hip Hop. | 7.5/10

15. billy woods - Today, I Wrote Nothing (2015)

Today, I Wrote Nothing is a distinctive chapter in billy woods’ discography. While his other works often delve deeply into sustained themes, this album is a collection of short stories and vignettes that feel scattered yet purposeful. Averaging around two minutes per track, the brevity of each piece invites listeners into a whirlwind of ideas and emotions, reflecting the chaotic essence of life itself.

Influenced by HBO’s “The Wire” and Cormac McCarthy’s “Blood Meridian,” woods experiments with a stream-of-consciousness lyrical style that presents an intriguing challenge. The album’s 24 tracks leap through various themes, presenting a vivid but sometimes incoherent tapestry of imagery. This disjointedness may confuse some listeners, but the thread that ties it all together is woods’ conversational delivery and sharp wit. His ability to articulate complex thoughts in a relatable manner ensures that, despite the album’s fragmentation, there’s a sense of connection throughout.

While it may not be the definitive highlight of his career, Today, I Wrote Nothing is a crucial entry in billy woods’ catalog, that reinforced his reputation as one of the decade’s most impactful voices in Hip Hop. | 7.5/10

14. E L U C I D - Save Yourself (2016)

Save Yourself is ELUCID’s debut solo album, and signifies a significant moment in his artistic evolution. By 2016 known for his work in Armand Hammer and also Cult Favorite, this record gives him the space to explore his narrative intimately and expansively.

Predominantly self-produced, the album thrives on a raw, atmospheric sound that mirrors ELUCID’s introspective lyrics. The opener, “A 1000 Faces,” featuring Psychic Twin, sets the tone with its haunting instrumentation and layered vocal delivery. Throughout the album, tracks like “Burnt Sugar” and “Cold Again” delve into themes of self-reflection and societal issues, revealing his struggles and resilience.

Collaboration is a strong element here, with billy woods appearing on “Bleachwater” and “Lest They Forget.” The chemistry between ELUCID and woods is palpable, enhancing the lyrical depth of the album. Meanwhile, tracks such as “Obama Incense” and “Jealous God” highlight the socio-political themes that run throughout the project.

While the album’s production style varies, with contributions from Willie Green and A.M. Breakups, it maintains a cohesive feel, blending experimental and traditional Hip Hop elements. Songs like “No Such Thing” and “Wake Up Dead Man” showcase ELUCID’s intricate lyricism and storytelling ability, reinforcing his status as a vital voice in the contemporary scene.

Save Yourself was a compelling debut that invited listeners into ELUCID’s world, making it a significant addition to this list, and to the modern Hip Hop canon as a whole. | 7.5/10

13. Armand Hammer - Shrines (2020)

Shrines (2020) is a deeply atmospheric and challenging album from Armand Hammer, where billy woods and ELUCID continue their signature style of abstract, thought-provoking lyricism. The production is experimental and unsettling, with left-field beats that perfectly mirror the complexity of the duo’s dense lyrics. This is another album not well-suited for passive or casual listening—it demands full engagement, requiring time to peel back the layers of meaning hidden within the metaphor-heavy verses.

Featuring a carefully selected lineup of contributors like Earl Sweatshirt, Quelle Chris, and R.A.P. Ferreira, Shrines builds a cohesive set of songs that complements the core duo’s wordplay. Each guest fits into the overall mood of the project, adding texture without feeling out of place. Thematically, the album captures the chaotic and politically fraught landscape of 2020, with tracks that reflect on societal decay and personal survival.

The cover art, a surreal real-life photo of a Siberian-Bengal tiger subdued in a Harlem apartment, encapsulates the feeling of contained chaos that runs throughout the project. While Shrines may not hit as immediately hard as some of Armand Hammer’s other releases, its dark, immersive sound and complex lyricism make it a fascinating listen for those willing to dive deep. This album continues their streak of compelling, unconventional Hip Hop that rewards patience and repeated spins. | 8/10

12. billy woods - Church (2022)

Church (2022) is a compelling addition to billy woods’ impressive catalog, released just months after the acclaimed Aethiopes. woods, often hailed as a generational lyricist at this point, demonstrates again why he is considered one of the best rappers active today. His delivery has evolved into a commanding, spoken-word style that draws listeners in while maintaining an air of intensity.

On this album, woods embraces a more straightforward approach compared to Aethiopes, opting for a beats-and-bars format that still retains his avant-garde roots. The production, handled by Messiah Musik, channels influences reminiscent of Blockhead and Kenny Segal, offering a sound that balances darkness with accessibility. This makes Church an inviting listen, even for those who may find some of woods’ previous work more challenging.

Standout tracks such as “Fever Grass,” “Classical Music” (featuring AKAI SOLO and FIELD), “Cossack Wedding,” “Pollo Rico,” and “All Jokes Aside” illustrate woods’ lyrical prowess and versatility. Each track displays his ability to craft intricate narratives and vivid imagery without losing momentum.

The album feels cohesive and polished, with no weak spots in sight. billy woods consistently delivers impactful verses that elevate the production, solidifying his position as an unassailable force in the Hip Hop scene. With Church, woods not only meets the high expectations set by his previous releases but also carved out a unique identity within a busy 2022 landscape. | 8/10

11. Armand Hammer - Rome (2017)

Rome (2017) is the second LP from Armand Hammer, composed of raw, cryptic lyrics paired with dark, off-kilter beats. The album boasts contributions from a variety of producers, including Messiah Musik, August Fanon, Fresh Kills, High Priest, Kenny Segal, and JPEGMafia, yet it maintains an impressive cohesion throughout.

The lyrical performances by woods and ELUCID shine with their cerebral, stream-of-consciousness style, offering stinging observations that leave a lasting impact. Lines like, “skimmed through your music, found no reason not to approve it/it was all relatively toothless, you’re just a guy,” highlight their knack for sharp critique and insight.

While Rome can be a dark and challenging listen, it rewards persistent listeners with its hypnotic beauty and depth. Each spin reveals new layers and meanings, making it an album with substantial replay value. The combination of gripping lyrics and innovative production ensures that Rome is a compelling entry in the duo’s discography, capturing the essence of their unique approach to Hip Hop. | 8/10

10. billy woods (& Moor Mother) - BRASS (2020)

BRASS (2020) is a captivating collaborative project between experimental musician Moor Mother billy woods. Following their partnership on Shrines, the duo kicked off this endeavor with the fiery track “Furies,” a hypnotic blend of interweaving allegories set over a sample from Sons of Kmet, crafted by producer Willie Green. This initial offering set the stage for what would become a rich, layered album that pushes the boundaries of Hip Hop.

The project is bolstered by a diverse lineup of guest contributors, including John Forte, ELUCID, Mach Hommy, and many others. Each voice adds a unique dimension to the work, enhancing its complexity and depth. The production team features notable names such as The Alchemist and Preservation, ensuring a varied yet cohesive sonic experience.

BRASS explores a sound that is both ethereal and grounded, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of “a cast-iron pot propped over a fire in the dark.” This vivid imagery translates to the listening experience, which oscillates between the haunting and the visceral. While some may find the album challenging or a slow burn, its rewards become apparent with repeated listens. For those who appreciate experimental and dense Hip Hop, BRASS is a great project that deserves attention, an exciting chapter in both artists’ discographies. | 8/10

9. billy woods - Aethiopes (2022)

On Aethiopes (2022), billy woods teams up with producer Preservation, who brings a dense, eerie backdrop that’s perfectly suited to woods’ intricate and abstract lyrical style. Preservation previously contributed to woods’ Terror Management and worked with him on his own Eastern Medicine, Western Illness, but Aethiopes feels like the culmination of their collaborations. The production is dark and atmospheric, creating a haunting soundscape for woods to weave his thought-provoking narratives and metaphors.

woods’ lyrical content is as rich and complex as ever, requiring multiple listens to fully grasp. His verses are filled with historical references, cryptic imagery, and sharp social commentary. Few in Hip Hop can match his poetic ability, with the closest comparison being Brooklyn’s Ka. Despite guest appearances from talents like ELUCID, Boldy James, Quelle Chris, and El-P, Aethiopes is very much centered on woods. He’s at the top of his game, delivering one of his most compelling performances yet.

With flawless production, expert sequencing, and deep lyricism, Aethiopes is an album with no weak points. The balance between woods’ heavy content and Preservation’s atmospheric beats makes this project one of the most rewarding listens in billy woods’ extensive catalog, reinforcing his status as one of the most innovative voices in Hip Hop. | 8/10

8. Armand Hammer - Haram (2021)

On Haram (2021), Armand Hammer teamed up with The Alchemist for an intriguing and powerful album that lived up to the duo’s reputation for dense, avant-garde Hip Hop. The Alchemist’s production offers a haunting yet accessible backdrop that complements woods and ELUCID’s cryptic, layered rhymes. Haram is a deep dive into taboo subjects, addressing themes of power, violence, and societal decay in a way that challenges listeners to think critically.

The album’s title, taken from the Islamic term for “forbidden,” reflects the subject matter of the tracks. woods and ELUCID explore all kinds of social and personal taboos, from racial violence to inner struggles, in their signature poetic style. The cryptic nature of their writing makes Haram a demanding but rewarding listen, with endless layers of meaning to unpack. For fans of Armand Hammer’s earlier works, this project will feel like a continuation of their uncompromising artistic vision, while The Alchemist’s production adds a new dimension to their sound.

Standout tracks like “Falling Out The Sky” featuring Earl Sweatshirt, “Chicharonnes” with Quelle Chris, and “Stonefruit” bring a range of emotions and perspectives to the table. Earl Sweatshirt’s verse on “Falling Out The Sky” feels particularly vivid, while “Chicharonnes” tackles police violence with a bone-chilling instrumental that underscores the seriousness of its subject matter. Meanwhile, “Stonefruit” closes the album with an emotionally charged final verse from billy woods, leaving a lasting impact.

The production on Haram strikes a balance between unsettling and atmospheric, giving the album a distinct sonic identity. The Alchemist’s beats are less abrasive than some of the duo’s previous work, but they remain left-field enough to match the abstract nature of woods and ELUCID’s rhymes. It’s a cohesive and impressive project that ranks among The Alchemist’s finest.

With no weak tracks in sight, Haram delivers from start to finish, presenting a well-thought-out and deeply engaging project. The gruesome album cover reflects the rawness of the content, enhancing the music’s mood and making Haram an unforgettable addition to Armand Hammer’s already impressive catalog. | | 8.5/10

7. billy woods (& Kenny Segal) - Maps (2023)

On Maps, billy woods teams up with LA producer Kenny Segal for their second full-length collaboration, following 2019’s Hiding Places. This time around, the duo presents an album that captures the disorienting, chaotic, and introspective experience of life on the road. With Maps, they delve into the complexities of touring, exploring everything from fleeting connections to the fatigue of constant movement.

woods’ lyricism is as sharp as ever, as he weaves through themes of travel, displacement, and the search for home. His trademark deadpan delivery and intricate wordplay bring depth to the seemingly mundane experiences of touring—detailing interactions with strangers, late-night drives, and the existential weight of always being on the move. It’s both a reflection on his own life and a broader commentary on the modern world, where people are constantly in transit but often unsure of their destination.

Kenny Segal’s production provides the ideal backdrop for this reflective journey. His beats, rooted in boom-bap but infused with jazz and experimental textures, are heavy yet spacious, allowing woods’ words to breathe. Tracks like “Year Zero” and “Soundcheck” are drenched in moody atmospheres, balancing soulful samples with gritty, bass-heavy beats. The features—from Danny Brown to Shabaka Hutchins—add variety without distracting from the overall vibe, with each guest adding their own unique flair to the project.

The chemistry between woods and Segal is undeniable, and Maps is a worthy follow-up to their previous collaboration. Rather than rehashing the formula that worked on Hiding Places, the duo expands their sound while digging deep into woods’ experiences on the road. The album feels like a natural progression for both artists—pushing them to explore new creative terrain while staying true to their roots. | | 8.5/10

6. Armand Hammer - We Buy Diabetic Test Strips (2023)

This album is a vibe, giving you a taste of the duo’s lyrical genius, taste for experimental beats, and a sound that’s pure Armand Hammer.

The producers on this joint are a wild mix—JPEGMAFIA, Child Actor, Pudge, Preservation, DJ Haram, August Fanon, El-P, Steel Tipped Dove, Messiah Musik, Kenny Segal, Willie Green, Black Noi$e, Jeff Markey, Elucid, and Sebb Bash contribute beats. It could’ve been a mess, but no, these beats come together in a mix that’s both cohesive and out there, showcasing Armand Hammer’s knack for riding different vibes. The album’s got an impressive array of guests too, including Moor Mother and Pink Siifu.

No skips on the tracklist here. Check the opening track, “Landlines”, setting the mood with its eerie atmosphere. ELUCID and woods drop cryptic and introspective rhymes, diving into memory, nostalgia, and the ticking clock. Then hit up “Switchboard”,  a more upbeat joint with a bouncy beat and catchy hook. The lyrics stay deep, though, as the duo breaks down tech’s role in our lives.

Standout tracks include “Trauma Mic” (featuring Pink Siifu and produced by DJ Haram), a sonic assault with a banging beat and distorted guitars. ELUCID and woods spit raw and visceral bars, facing their personal demons and the world’s injustices, and “The Gods Must Be Crazy” (produced by El-P), a chaotic and unpredictable ride, with El-P’s signature production providing the perfect backdrop for the duo’s mind-bending lyrics.

Armand Hammer keeps it real throughout the album with their trademark bars, unorthodox flows, and thought-provoking lyrics. They cover everything from age and history to politics, hitting you with refreshing and challenging perspectives. The beats match the gritty tales of modern living, swinging between harsh industrial beats and dreamy interludes. Armand Hammer’s been doing their thing for a decade at this point, and We Buy Diabetic Test Strips only solidified their spot in the underground Hip Hop scene. It’s a bold and commanding LP, with a rich tapestry of lyrics and a diverse sound palette, Armand Hammer kept owning the game in the underground Hip Hop world. | | 8.5/10

5. E L U C I D - REVELATOR (2024)

ELUCID’s REVELATOR is a bold statement, elevating his already impressive discography into uncharted territory, seeing ELUCID stepping confidently into his own artistic vision. 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 Armand Hammer catalog—it’s a major statement in the history of underground Hip Hop. | 9/10

4. billy woods - Known Unknowns (2017)

Known Unknowns (2017) is arguably the most overlooked and underappreciated album in billy woods’ catalog, often flying under the radar when discussions arise about his best work. Despite this, it’s one of our favorite albums from the New York-based emcee, which is why it ranks so high on this list. Produced primarily by Blockhead, with additional contributions from Aesop Rock, the album offers a rich, textured soundscape that complements woods’ complex, often cryptic lyricism.

On Known Unknowns, billy woods delivers sharp, intricate verses that are packed with vivid imagery, dark humor, and biting social commentary. His non-linear storytelling style, where thoughts and references are layered like a puzzle, rewards listeners who are willing to dig deep into the dense wordplay. Tracks like “Bush League” and “Washington Redskins” explore themes of identity, survival, and power, all delivered with woods’ signature blend of deadpan wit and a cynical worldview.

Blockhead’s production brings a moody, atmospheric backdrop to the project, using dusty samples, abstract loops, and unconventional rhythms. The beats create an immersive environment that enhances the tension and grit of woods’ rhymes. Aesop Rock’s production on tracks “Bush League” and “Cheap Shoes” adds another layer of unpredictability, further pushing the album’s sound into new territory. The chemistry between woods and his producers is undeniable, resulting in a cohesive yet varied sound that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish.

Despite its brilliance, Known Unknowns is rarely mentioned among billy woods’ best albums. It tends to be overshadowed by his later projects, but for us, this album has billy woods at the top of his game, blending sharp political commentary with deeply personal reflections. The under-the-radar nature of the project makes it feel even more special—an album that quietly asserts itself as one of woods’ most compelling works, and one that deserves far more recognition than it typically receives. | 9/10

3. Armand Hammer - Paraffin (2018)

Armand Hammer’s Paraffin is a project that captures the raw and unsettling energy of billy woods and ELUCID, at their most introspective and abrasive. Released in 2018, Paraffin is an album that refuses to provide comfort or easy answers. Instead, it dives deep into themes of decay, oppression, and survival in a society that feels increasingly fractured. The album’s sonic landscape mirrors these themes, with dissonant beats, obscure samples, and minimalistic production that is both jagged and mesmerizing.

The duo’s lyricism on Paraffin is cryptic yet pointed, with billy woods and ELUCID trading verses that often feel more like puzzles than straightforward narratives. The album’s strength lies in its ability to evoke emotion and thought through imagery that is bleak but vivid. Whether they’re speaking on systemic violence, personal trauma, or existential dread, the two emcees keep listeners on edge, forcing them to engage with the weight of their words.

The production on Paraffin plays a crucial role in creating this atmosphere. The beats are murky and unconventional, with distorted drums, eerie loops, and ghostly vocal samples forming the backdrop for the duo’s dense lyricism. Tracks like “Dettol” and “Rehearse with Ornette” stand out, not because they offer any respite, but because of their relentless focus on dissonance and tension. The beats feel alive, constantly shifting and evolving in unpredictable ways, making the album as much an experience of texture as it is of words.

Though Paraffin is far from an easy listen, it rewards those willing to sit with its complexities. The project’s unorthodox structure and challenging subject matter make it a unique statement in both Armand Hammer’s discography and the broader world of underground Hip Hop. It’s a reminder of the power that music can hold when it refuses to conform, delivering a sound that’s as unsettling as it is thought-provoking.

With Paraffin, Armand Hammer doesn’t aim to make listeners comfortable. Instead, they ask us to sit with the discomfort, to face the harsh realities embedded within the music, and to reflect on what survival looks like in a world that seems to be falling apart at the seams. It’s an album that demands attention, resisting easy interpretation and leaving a lasting impact. | 9/10

2. billy woods (& Kenny Segal) - Hiding Places (2019)

billy woods’ Hiding Places, a collaboration with producer Kenny Segal, is one of the most striking releases in woods’ extensive catalog. Dropping in 2019, the album feels like a dark, introspective descent into the mind of an artist grappling with personal and societal turmoil. woods’ penchant for dense, cryptic lyricism is in full force here. This album doesn’t offer easy answers or clear narratives; instead, it pulls listeners into fragmented, anxious reflections on life, survival, and a world that seems constantly on the brink of collapse.

Kenny Segal’s production is a perfect match for the themes woods explores. His beats are gritty, layered, and often unsettling, providing an uneasy yet captivating foundation. Tracks like “Spongebob” and “Checkpoints” feature murky, off-kilter loops that keep listeners slightly off-balance, reinforcing the sense of discomfort that runs throughout the album. The haunting piano, heavy bass, and disjointed samples underscore the emotional weight of woods’ lyrics, creating a sonic environment that feels as claustrophobic as it does immersive.

Lyrically, woods is at the top of his game. His bars are filled with vivid imagery, cryptic allusions, and bleak humor. On songs like “A Day in a Week in a Year,” woods captures a sense of alienation, with lines that cut deep into the fractured state of the world around him. Whether he’s reflecting on personal demons or critiquing larger social issues, woods does so with an intensity that draws the listener into his world.

Hiding Places is not an easy listen, but that’s exactly what makes it so compelling. It’s a raw, unfiltered look into the psyche of one of Hip Hop’s most enigmatic voices. For those willing to sit with its discomfort, the album rewards with layers of depth and meaning that unravel with each listen, marking it as a standout in billy woods’ catalog. | 9/10

1. billy woods - History Will Absolve Me (2012)

At the pinnacle of this ranking sits billy woods’ History Will Absolve Me, a masterful work that elevated Hip Hop to new heights of artistic expression. History Will Absolve Me is billy woods’ 3rd full-length solo album, effectively a restart of his solo career after having dropped one album as part of the supergroup The Reavers, and three strong albums with rapper Priviledge as Super Chron Flight Brothers in the second half of the aughts.

The cover of History Will Absolve Me has a close-up picture of controversial former Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe paired with one of Cuba’s Fidel Castro’s most infamous quotes – an album cover that indicates that billy woods is not about some bubblegum rap.

When History Will Absolve Me dropped in 2012, it was like a jolt to underground Hip Hop. It’s an album that combines razor-sharp lyricism with deeply unsettling production, making it one of the most distinctive records of its time. The album is raw, political, and unapologetically dark, with woods tackling themes of systemic oppression, personal failure, and existential dread. It’s a dense project, filled with cutting social commentary, introspection, and woods’ unique brand of black humor.

Throughout the album, billy woods demonstrates his skill in transforming historical references and personal anecdotes into biting critiques of modern society. Whether it’s through his grim portrayals of urban life or his examinations of the legacies of colonialism and power, his writing is both thought-provoking and unrelenting. Tracks like “The Man Who Would Be King” and “Freedman’s Bureau” draw on heavy historical themes, forcing listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about the past and present.

Production on History Will Absolve Me is stellar. Handled by a variety of producers, including Blockhead, Willie Green, Marmaduke, and Man Mantis, the beats are eerie, gritty, and dissonant. The soundscape complements woods’ delivery and subject matter, with minimalistic percussion, ominous samples, and layered atmospheres. The chaotic, unpredictable nature of the production adds a sense of tension to the album, creating a perfect backdrop for woods’ harsh and surreal lyricism. It’s a sonic experience that can feel almost claustrophobic, but that’s what makes it hit so hard.

History Will Absolve Me is brutaly honest. Woods doesn’t shy away from exposing his vulnerabilities, but he does it with a sense of defiance. His lyrical style often weaves between the deeply personal and the historically grand, making the album feel like both a personal reckoning and a broader societal critique. His wordplay is intricate, his references obscure yet powerful, and his flow unorthodox, all of which demand active listening to catch the full scope of what he’s saying.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Crocodile Tears,” which features a haunting, piano-driven beat. The song is a scathing indictment of the music industry and the hypocrisy of mainstream rappers who claim to care about social issues, but ultimately prioritize their own fame and fortune over real change. woods’ lyrics are biting and incisive, calling out the bogus solidarity of those who use their platform to spout empty slogans but refuse to take real action.

Another standout track is “Duck Hunt,” which features a jazzy, off-kilter beat that perfectly complements woods’ dense, stream-of-consciousness rhymes. The song is a meditation on the power of language and the ways in which it can be used to manipulate and control people. woods’ lyrics are dense and packed with references to literature, history, and pop culture, showcasing his intellect and mastery of the written word.

Despite the heavy subject matter, woods infuses the album with moments of dark humor. His wit is sharp, and he’s not afraid to mix absurdity with the bleakness. This dynamic keeps the album engaging and multidimensional, avoiding monotony in its dark themes. The interplay between biting humor and intense subject matter gives the album its unique character.

At nearly an hour long, History Will Absolve Me is an immersive and challenging experience. It’s not a casual listen—it’s the kind of album that requires full attention and multiple spins to appreciate fully. Every track has layers to unravel, both in its lyrics and production. woods has created a complex narrative that forces listeners to confront uncomfortable truths and leaves room for interpretation.

This album is a landmark for billy woods, marking a moment when he fully honed his voice and carved out a distinct place in the underground Hip Hop landscape. It’s not just the best in his catalog, but a defining piece of post-2010s Hip Hop. | 9.5/10