It’s a continuation of his intense focus on a singular topic, which results in a clear elevation in quality that few could hope to achieve, setting the standard for any plan to follow his formula.

The Allegory plays out as Royce’s most consolidated offering yet. A definite career high-point for a rapper whose résumé spans over 20 years.

Layers is an album of tremendous depth and skill, and shines a light on Royce 5’9” as multifaceted artist.

HNDRXX provides a view into a modern rock star indulging in a side of himself that’s more thoughtful and dare one say, honest.

Listeners will find themselves going back to the top of the tracklist and letting the album roll through the variety of worldly sounding tracks. A true GoldLink summer vacation. A true summer diaspora.

The album is littered with allusions to Whack’s mental health struggles, but it never feels overbearing, owing to Whack’s ability to balance darkness with her trademark wit and playfulness.

The Patience is a rewarding opening chapter, a satisfying burst of fresh air after a period of holding his breath.

One Of The Best Yet makes a strong case that its chain and star logo is Hip Hop traditionalism’s version of the Union Jack flag to salute where credit is due to one of rap’s greatest MCs and duos yet.

Much like his subdued persona in the media and social world, BJ has put forth a project that speaks louder than any other outlier that dictates what rides the trend.

The House Is Burning does exactly what it’s intended to do, it allows Rashad to dust off the cobwebs going back to the southern sound he so deeply admires, while also proving to listeners he hasn’t lost a step.

The L.I.B.R.A. could have benefitted from a few snips here and there, but overall it’s a reasonably satisfying listen and a tangible reminder that the self-proclaimed King Of The South hasn’t lost his edge.

While it would be easy to get lost in the eclecticism of the album, that’s frankly what makes N.E.R.D the group they are.

It’s unabashedly fun and a refreshing celebration of sample-based beats in a genre largely moving away from them. There’s no deep thinking or worldly insight here, but Bronson has never tried to be that artist. He sticks to what he does best and succeeds in doing so.

With a debut studio album as refreshing and well-rounded as MID AIR, it seems like they’ve found that lane, and may be the leaders.

This debut shines so brightly in comparison to what Aminé’s contemporaries are passing off that it may be easy to forget that it is not exactly a groundbreaking album. Regardless, the rookie should be commended for crafting an honest, entertaining and revealing album.

The songs here demonstrate his versatility by tackling new subject matters (relationships, love), expanding his reach with more big-name producers and features. He is no longer boxed in as a drill specialist but an artist with range, who can take that foundation and shape melodies that are on trend with 2020’s standards.

With no filler or fluff, this album is bound to satisfy those who like their bars bountiful and Lupe Fiasco in peak form.

Pray For Haiti is an easy starting point for new Griselda fans looking to find out what the Mach-Hommy hype is all about.

The rhythmic excellence of producer RIOTUSA and Ice Spice comes to a peak on “Actin A Smoochie.”

As a highly experimental album, the occasional misfire is a guarantee. Ultimately, Iridescence is an exciting way to start a new trilogy and is a testament to Brockhampton’s perseverance.

Some Rap Songs is reminiscent to Earl’s late friend Mac Miller’s final album Swimming. Both bring the listener through the process of overcoming trauma and healing but ultimately, choose to leave the story unfinished.

ALL-AMERIKKKAN BADA$$ shows an ample amount of growth for a socially aware rapper discussing heavy issues.

Is it going to be the album of the year? No. But it’s a very high quality, and very enjoyable.

EarthGang are rapping and harmonizing the sights and sound that make up the musical hubs’ cultural and social-economical tapestry. This isn’t a new Outkast. This is a new Atlanta.

The subtle wave of acoustics, sparse pianism and occasional bass bump work as an apt complement to Ella’s oration. The production also displays the underappreciated diversity of Mustard’s bottomless bag of beats.

Shoot For The Stars Aim For The Moon offers a fleeting peek into the artist Pop would become—beyond Drill, beyond Brooklyn, beyond even the United States.

After Hours is the most satisfying blend of “old” and “new” Weeknd that he’s ever put forth on a single project.

Frank has proven to be his most compelling work to date.