First Impressions - Black Milk - If There's A Hell Below
I've been pretty down on most projects that sound (or their samples) dated or don't have some sort of modern twist or interpretation of those sounds, but this really seems to capture that glint of authenticity/soul that I feel is sorely missing from modern boom bap. I'm bopping my head not in appreciation, but as someone who is entertained and feeling it. The album has a definitive texture, and that's both a plus and a minus IMO. I don't think any of the features particularly add anything to the record, and some I'd argue are even bad (Bun B). Album dips a bit int he last few tracks which don't do much for me.
If you're just looking for some super solid rappity rap and boom bap, this is one of the go-to records this year. Stellar production from front-to-back that is significantly diverse. I don't know if it's particularly exceptional/memorable quite yet, but it's solid. Standouts for me are Detroit's New Dance Show, What It's Worth and Story and Her.
First Impressions - OG Maco - Breathe EP
Lol I didn't know this was 3 songs. You would have never guessed this was the guy that did U Guessed It. Great little snack and potential palette cleanser with great energy. Not much else to say, really. He went IN on Riot and that's surprisingly one of the best Ferguson/Eric Garner/White Privilege response songs I've heard.
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I think I'm good with listening to new shit for the year, and probably will spend the next little while revisiting projects and letting some of these recent spins sink in. Bottom half of my Top 10 is looking really fuzzy.