"Darkside III" is a satisfactory mixtape that will at least remind Hip Hop heads of what Fat Joe has been able to accomplish during his time in the game.
"Dedication 5" shows the competitiveness that fueled Lil Wayne's ascension, but too many songs fade into the background, making it a chore to find the gems.
Despite running a bit long, "The Golden Age" manages to be a solid platform for Dizzy Wright to display both raw lyricism and his more introspective side.
The songs that Curren$y actually appears on have enough replay value away from the bong, but for the most part, Spitta's friends ruin the high.
"Vampire Life III" is a rehash of what we already know about Jim Jones, albeit one that has its moments where it can get your head nodding.
"Slime Flu 4" does a good job of representing New York with Big Apple cameos and remakes of classics, but it's a step down from Vado's previous mixtapes.
Sometimes Juicy J's effortless style veers too close to effort-less, but his album has high entertainment value as a soundtrack to the "trippy" lifestyle.
"Age Against The Machine" serves as both a piece of experimental art and a rewarding risk in an age where established artists are fearfully playing it safe.
Big Sean's sophomore set is a celebratory tribute to achievements gained through a dedicated work ethic, but its predictability may leave some disinterested.
Young Jeezy releases mostly unpolished music from the newest members of CTE's consistently rotating cast on "Boss Yo Life Up Gang."
Rapsody truly holds court on "She Got Game," wedging herself in the conversation for Mixtape of the Year.
"Hear Ye Him," excels at creating a sense of natural, human contradiction. But we've yet to hear the perfect equilibrium between Malice and No Malice.
On "Trap Lord," A$AP Ferg's flow, presence, and versatility of cadence are undeniable, but the content of his rhymes doesn't change much.
If you seek high energy vocals and heavy 808s, Trinidad Jame$' "10 PC Mild," has what you want, however, that alone doesn't make for a great mixtape.
"Doris" contains little calculation or false pretense; Earl Sweatshirt excels in every technical aspect, but the album's primary weakness is a lack of cohesion.
"3ChordFold" is a gratifying listen, in part because it's full of memorable moments, and Martin's production has a dynamism often missing in today's Hip Hop.
Despite its brevity, "Honest Cowboy" is Stalley's most complete project to date. His blue-collar days may be over, but they don't define him as an emcee.
"strictlyFLOWZ" is a cohesive, polished mixtape showcasing stellar production and ample lyricism, but may also be too short for some.
A few lackluster moments behind the boards and on the mic taint "Apex Predator," yet it still offers a glimpse of what Crooked I can accomplish on a full album.
While not flawless, "80 Blocks From Tiffany's pt.II" admirably captures and adds to a classic sound many perceive as long gone.