Ghais Guevara - Goyard Ibn Said

Goyard Ibn Said is a striking album from Philadelphia rapper and activist Ghais Guevara, marking a new chapter in his career under Fat Possum. The project revolves around a fictional anti-hero, Goyard, navigating the tension between mainstream Hip Hop success and the harsh realities of Black life and political consciousness. Divided into two acts, the album first celebrates the highs of fame and fortune before diving into the darker side of achieving success.

The production is bold and unpredictable, blending boom-bap, jazz, and electronic elements into a gritty and expansive sound. Distorted synths, heavy bass, and layered beats create an atmosphere that shifts between aggression and reflection. Guevara’s flow cuts through the mix with precision, delivering lyrics packed with political commentary, cultural critique, and personal introspection. Tracks like “Leprosy” and “3400” showcase his sharp wordplay and vivid storytelling, painting pictures of struggle and survival with an urgent and unrelenting energy.

Throughout the album, Guevara balances humor and anger while addressing capitalism, white supremacy, and the exploitation of Black art. His self-awareness and sharp wit bring depth to complex topics, making them engaging without losing their weight. As the album moves into Act 2, the tone shifts toward introspection, with songs like “4L” and “The Apple That Scarcely Fell” exploring the personal cost of success and the emotional toll it carries.

Each track offers a distinct sonic backdrop, whether it’s the eerie, orchestral flourishes on “Branded” or the stripped-down, soul-sampling approach of “You Can Skip This Part.” The album thrives on contrast—swagger and celebration sit alongside sobering reflections, highlighting the duality of ambition and consequence. Even in its most reflective moments, Goyard Ibn Said maintains an underlying urgency, pushing forward while grappling with identity and purpose.

By the time the album reaches its closing moments, Guevara leaves listeners with plenty to think about. The themes explored feel timely and deeply personal, yet the album never loses its energy or sharp focus. Goyard Ibn Said is a dense, thought-provoking body of work that rewards close listening and reveals new layers with each spin.

Release date: January 24, 2025.

Miles Cooke - ceci n'est pas un portrait

Miles Cooke’s ceci n’est pas un portrait thrives on tension—between faith and despair, grit and grace, structure and improvisation. The album, a cerebral labyrinth of dark humor and vivid introspection, carries the weight of existential fatigue, delivered through Cooke’s raspy, lived-in voice. Each line feels less like a recitation and more like an urgent confession, made in the margins of a world spinning out of control.

Cooke’s beats, along with contributions from Foule Monk, Roper Williams, and Jeff Markey, evoke smoky backrooms and shadowed cityscapes. Sparse jazz pianos collide with menacing basslines, crafting a sound as uneasy as the truths Cooke lays bare. Guest verses from Defcee, SKECH185, and RAMA expand the narrative’s layers, blending camaraderie with critique.

This is an album that doesn’t seek comfort. Instead, it confronts the absurdity of modern life with sharp metaphors and a wry gaze, offering listeners a brutally poetic mirror.

At 32 minutes, the album is on the short side, but its brevity doesn’t detract from its impact. Recommended for fans of edgy underground Hip Hop, ceci n’est pas un portrait delivers a raw, uncompromising experience that lingers long after the final track.

Release date: January 10, 2025.

Big Cheeko - Coulrophobia

Courophobia by Atlanta artist Big Cheeko is a bold and dynamic blend of Hip Hop, soul, and jazz influences, with every track offering something distinct. The production is rich and diverse, weaving together smooth beats, jazzy elements, and sharp percussion that perfectly frame Cheeko’s unique vocal delivery. Cheeko’s lyricism is thought-provoking, capturing themes of self-awareness and societal reflection, all while maintaining a sharp sense of humor. Collaborations with artists like Jay Nice and Rocxnoir add texture to the album, enhancing its variety without overshadowing Cheeko’s voice. Throughout, the record’s experimental nature keeps things fresh, though its steady flow ensures a cohesive listening experience. Coulrophobia is a well-rounded effort that blends deep vibes with creative risks, proving Cheeko’s potential as an artist to watch.

Release date: January 17, 2025.

Isaac Castor & Foul Mouth - The Rabbit Hole 3: Smoking Caterpillar

Isaac Castor and Foul Mouth return with The Rabbit Hole 3: Smoking Caterpillar, the latest chapter in their ongoing series. The album dives deep into boom-bap roots while weaving in jazz and rock influences, creating a dense and textured backdrop for Castor’s sharp lyricism. From the opening track “Here They Come,” the energy is direct and unwavering, setting the tone with tight drums and confident delivery. Tracks like “I Ain’t Fresh?” tap into gritty basement-style beats, while “Blind” takes a smoother approach with jazz-infused melodies.

Throughout the project, Castor balances battle-ready bars with introspection. “Why Should I Die?” layers horns and punchy percussion under lyrics that explore his sense of self-worth, while “Sidetracked” critiques the compromises others make in pursuit of fame. Guest appearances from Kain Cole, J-Classic, and Mvck Nyce add variety, complementing Castor’s style without overshadowing his presence.

Production by Foul Mouth remains grounded in the signature Middle Finger Music sound—rich sampling, crisp drums, and a knack for balancing nostalgia with freshness. “Time for Jazz” and “Spin Itch” highlight this versatility, blending soulful loops with raw energy. As the album winds down with “Thoughts Runnin’” and “Live Wire,” Castor circles back to themes of persistence and artistic growth, reinforcing the cyclical nature of his journey.

Castor’s confidence and hunger are evident, making each track a statement of purpose. The Rabbit Hole 3: Smoking Caterpillar feels like a culmination of years of hard work, shaped by experience and a relentless drive to keep moving forward.

Release date: January 23, 2025.

Doseone & Steel Tipped Dove - All Portrait, No Chorus

All Portrait, No Chorus from Doseone and Steel Tipped Dove is a sparse and challenging listen that pushes the edges of Hip Hop’s usual structures. The production by Dove is ethereal and abstract, filled with dreamy loops, disjointed rhythms, and haunting textures that create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Doseone’s unorthodox delivery, part spoken word and part rap, weaves through the beats with a surreal flow that can be difficult to latch onto at first. His lyrical content—dense with metaphors and esoteric references—demands attention and repeated listens to fully absorb.

The album features guest appearances from notable figures like billy woods and Quelle Chris, who bring a sense of weight and depth to the project, though they are used sparingly. The overall tone of the album is introspective and cerebral, with a focus on mood and abstract storytelling rather than catchy hooks or conventional song structures.

All Portrait, No Chorus is not an easy listen but it rewards those who are willing to immerse themselves in its strange, labyrinthine sound world. Fans of experimental, left-field Hip Hop who appreciate a more challenging, unconventional approach, will find plenty to enjoy here.

Release date: January 10, 2025. 

Slik Jack & Vincent Pryce - Everyone's Gotta Pryce

Everyone’s Gotta Pryce by Slik Jack and Vincent Pryce presents a dark and gritty narrative that pulls listeners into a world of crime and suspense. The production by Vincent Pryce is steeped in haunting, atmospheric beats with a touch of 1980s horror film vibes, creating a fitting backdrop for Slik Jack’s sharp East Coast flow. The album’s sample choices add a raw, cinematic feel that heightens the intensity of each track. Guest features like Bub Styles, Daniel Son, and Pro Dillinger bring additional weight to the project, enhancing its underground appeal. It’s a tight, immersive listen with plenty of style and grit.

Release date: January 22, 2025.

Murderers' Row & Snowgoons - Murderers' Row

Murderers’ Row brings together Reef the Lost Cauze, King Syze, and Outerspace with Snowgoons behind the boards, delivering a tight collection of rugged, no-nonsense boom-bap. The beats hit hard, packed with thumping drums and eerie samples that create a tense, aggressive atmosphere. Lyrically, the group sticks to what they do best—gritty street narratives and sharp punchlines delivered with precision. Guest appearances from Elemxnt, Kxng Charisma, and Trxstworthy add variety, while DJ Crypt and DJ TMB provide cuts that keep the old-school energy alive. The biggest drawback is the short runtime, with only eight tracks that leave the project feeling more like an appetizer than a full meal. Despite its brevity, Murderers’ Row delivers enough heavy-hitting moments to satisfy fans of hardnosed Hip Hop.

Release date: January 24, 2025. 

.Tetsuo - GOSSAMER

GOSSAMER is a long, winding listen that leans into its own offbeat style without hesitation. At 77 minutes, it’s packed with meandering jazz-influenced instrumentals that strip things down to the essentials—often drumless, leaving plenty of space for Tetsuo’s relentless delivery. His rapping pushes forward in an almost breathless rush, a steady stream of words that rarely lets up. The abstract, free-flowing approach won’t connect with everyone, but those who do will find a hypnotic quality in its repetition and off-kilter rhythms. It’s an ambitious project that takes its time and isn’t afraid to be different.

Release date: January 19, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Boldy James - Permanent Ink

Permanent Ink is Boldy James’ second album of the year, and January isn’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.

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.

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. 

Best Hip Hop EPs Of 2025

• Napoleon Da Legend & JR Swiftz – Great Minds
• Busta Rhymes – Dragon Season… The Awakening
• R.A.P. Ferreira – Outstanding Understanding
• Jae Skeese – 40 Hours
• Logic – Aquarius III
• Diamond D – The Diam Piece 3: Duo
• Ferris Blusa & Observe Since 98 – And That’s When I Saw Gawd
• Jae Skeese – 40 Hours
• Supreme Cerebral & Swab – Son Of Hannibal
• NAHreally – Secret Pancake
• Novatore & Brenx – Agoraphobia
• Ransom – Cabrini Green Project
• Paradox & DJ Sean P – Now. Here. This
• Wavy Da Ghawd – The Muse’s Embrace
• Ty Farris & Divine Crime – Timing of a Tarantula

The Best Hip Hop Albums Of 2024

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