Jon Connor - Unconscious State
"Unconscious State" is a change of pace from Jon Connor, reflecting both growth and regression. At times he sacrifices artistry in the chase for recognition.
Vince Staples & Larry Fisherman - Stolen Youth (Mixtape Review)
Loosely based on his harsh upbringing, Vince Staples inches his way to greater prominence with the masterful Stolen Youth.
Improved production, cadences and subject matter add up to an improved J. Cole. But his semi-autobiographical one man show still isn't particularly dynamic.
Prodigy & Alchemist - Albert Einstein
Sharing his first name with the famed genius, Prodigy breaks his advanced expertise down to a science on "Albert Einstein."
"Ugly Heroes" is cohesive, moving and likely aims to help listeners overcome hurdles. But, at times, it's tough to digest and may alienate more than influence.
Hustle Gang - G.D.O.D. (Mixtape Review)
T.I. wields a strong command over Hip Hop with "G.D.O.D.," shouldering the burden for a team who would otherwise be left to their own devices.
Over the course of 33 exhausting tracks, "April Showers" is Wyclef at his most self-important with an unfiltered ambition left to roam free.
Nametag & Nameless - For Namesake
Nametag and Nameless join forces to issue a wake up call that is hard, soulful and thought-provoking with the help of an assorted cast from their town's scene.
Terrace Martin Speaks On Bond With Robert Glasper, Kendrick Lamar's Success
Exclusive: Terrace Martin speaks of going to Jazz camp with Robert Glasper. He praises 9th Wonder, and says, "Snoop is the first one to give me a shot," and it's love whether Snoop Dogg or Snoop Lion.
"Wolf" finds Tyler, the Creator successfully and artfully juggling his following's expectations with his personal growth.
BJ The Chicago Kid Confirms Track With Busta Rhymes & MF DOOM On J Dilla Beat
Exclusive: Soul sensation BJ The Chicago Kid speaks on carrying the torch for Motown Records and working with Busta Rhymes & DOOM over J Dilla production.
DJ Drama Says The Lil Wayne, T.I. & Young Jeezy Trifecta "Made My Career"
Exclusive: DJ Drama spoke in South By Southwest this month. He also reveals that he's got a new facility in Mean Street Studios.
Just Blaze Waves Off "EDM" Badge For Music, Explains Keys To His Longevity
Exclusive: The supporter and tour-mate of Baauer says that "90% of Pop music these days is electronic, and 90% of it gets danced to." He waves off the EDM label.
Producer Willie B Says Kendrick Lamar's "Rigamortis" Led To Work With Wale, Freddie Gibbs
Exclusive: At South By Southwest, the TDE producer hints at upcoming work. Skyzoo also discusses the generational impact of "Spike Lee Was My Hero."
Phonte Says He's "Done Remaking Songs;" Won't Rap "To Stay Relevant"
Exclusive: The Foreign Exchange reflect on their long working history, a new album of remixes and why Phonte is in no rush to put out a sophomore, solo Rap LP.
Ill Bill provides a rather jarring listen, as "The Grimy Awards" sticks steadfast to an abrasive script.
Still Shining: The Business Of Continuing J Dilla's Legacy
We'll likely always debate if it's disrespectful to reinterpret Dilla's visionary sound and if Hip Hop should support ventures he he hasn't been able to sign off on.
The Underachievers - Indigoism (Mixtape Review)
The Underachievers cohesively merge today's turned up sound with that which came from their formerly dominant homeland of Brooklyn.
Often a rhyming beast in his own regard, Oh No uses "Disrupted Ads" to showcase the skills of his inner circle.
Casey Veggies - Life Changes (Mixtape Review)
Casey Veggies has a cool, calm and collected demeanor that is prideful without becoming obnoxious.
Consequence - Movies On Demand 4 (Mixtape Review)
With a platform now greater than ever, Consequence aims to capitalize on his moment with "Movies On Demand 4."