...But there are also plenty of explosive lightning moments to be had.
Without a shred of self-importance, J. Cole seeks empathy for those stuck in their own way now that he’s as close to the mountaintop as ever. The music is decent, too.
Soulo blurs the dangerous line between confusion and enlightenment and strengthens any arguments of him having the best pen game in Black Hippy.
The project won't change your mind naysayers who think Drillnois Durk is dull but still leaves an impression with a few quotables.
Lin-Manuel Miranda brings his musical to wax for those who missed it on stage featuring countless Hip Hop and R&B stars.
Even Tyrone Biggums can get down with this one...
The 6ian makes more aggressive party music than Toronto cohorts Drake and The Weeknd but still needs a bit of fine-tuning.
The ear fatigue is real after 15-16 tracks of the same sound but 40 is a legend so deal with it.
If there were any expectations with this one, they sure weren't hit.
Despite delivering a few noteworthy projects over the year, this is Crooked I's best of 2016.
The artist formerly known as Lil Herb buys himself some time before the release of his debut LP with a more sophisticated side to his Chicago drill time spitter.
Determined to keep Hip Hop’s soul alive with her newfound platform, Sister Raps blends femininity and humanity often in the same breath.
With a mix of personal, braggadocio and all-star guests, Term continues to take up the mantle for quality boom bap.
Abel keeps his edge and ambition amid the obvious commercial aspirations but doesn't walk away with any flat-out classics.
The Colonel's latest mixtape is definitely hotter than Tabasco but won’t necessarily make your eyes water.
The $100 valuation is a bit off, but Bompton's finest is still good money for a few heaters.
If this teaser is any indicator, Neighborhood Nip might charge a cool mil for his debut album.
With help from a few notable featured guests, some Xannies and Percs, Belly tries to describe his “vibe.”
As the dealer behind some of the most incredibly catchy hooks one will hear this year, the Conglomerate hitmaker adds a layer of artistic evolution to the interior design of his dope house.
The multitalented Wisconsin artist plants his roots for future success.