Welcome to our Rap Weekly 65: Qauranta is exactly the album that Danny Brown deserves. It is a format where we bring you all the hot news from the scene, all new releases, clips, and announcements that you should not miss. Today’s news feed is filled to the brim: André 3000 released his anticipated solo album, Drake gave space to the producers we love, Boldy James and Nicholas Craven released a pilot single from their upcoming album. What happens when two rap legends who still have the drive of rookies come together? 2 Chainz & Lil Wayne have the answer. Rome Streetz and Conductor Williams are a duo that has no equal. The video for Chrome Magnum evokes the cult film Belly with its color palette. This week, you’ll get some quick news that you can’t miss. What dope albums and music videos have been released last week? That and much more can be found by scrolling down.
NEWS OF THE WEEK
Qauranta is exactly the album that Danny Brown deserves
Twelve years. For twelve years, we’ve been waiting for the day when Detroit madman Danny Brown would release the follow-up to his legendary XXX. Of course, Danny has released three perfect solo albums in the interim: Old, Atrocity Exhibition, and U Know What I’m Sayin?, so the wait for XXX hasn’t hurt a bit. The long-awaited and repeatedly postponed Quaranta album is finally here, and it has something magical about it. It dances imaginatively with the XXX album, reflecting on everything Danny has been through in the last ten years and reassuring us that you can really go through anything and not lose your strength or hope.
Qauranta, or forty in Italian (hence XXXX, as the album was originally supposed to be called), is true to its name to the letter. Since XXX, Danny Brown has aged ten years, crossed the age of forty, and gained an enormous amount of life experience. The very opening track, which we think is really perfect, tells the listener everything he needs to know. Forget the crazy and self-destructive Danny; you are dealing with a veteran seasoned by life.
„This rap shit done saved my life, And fucked it up at the same time“
Danny Brown reflects on his former position in the rap game as a vessel of pain that was there for those who were most lost in life. For over a decade, we were able to relate to a crazy character whose heart beat with suffering and who showed us that even the worst problems can be handled. Of course, this dynamic between artist and listener was killing Danny. Fortunately, there was a life shift.
The album is much calmer than all of Danny’s previous albums; the beats are slower and give the rapper space to get everything out of himself. We don’t need to talk about Danny’s voice, cadence, flows, or feel for beats, but Danny is also a masterful lyricist. A shining example is the track Jenn’s Terrific Vacation, in which the artist takes us back in time and reflects on how gentrification has destroyed his neighborhood. The beats were handled by The Alchemist, Chris Keys, Holly, Kaelin Ellis, Kassa Overall, Paul White, Quelle Chris, Samiyam, Skywlkr & Sven Wunder, and all did a masterful job. The album features guest appearances from MIKE and Bruiser Wolf, and Zelooperz sings background vocals on the track Shakedown. It’s likely we’ll notice more hidden details as time goes on. Qauranta may not be the album everyone was expecting, but it is exactly the album Danny Brown deserves.
NEWS
André 3000 released his anticipated solo album
The impossible has become a reality, and the legendary André 3000 has given us a fortune in the form of his solo debut album, New Blue Sun. The record offers listeners a whole new sonic experience that is different from his previous rap projects. The album, which comes with a “no bars” warning beforehand, takes us into a fascinating world of pure instrumental music. After 17 years since Outkast’s last album, André 3000 decided to surprise his fans and go in a new experimental direction. New Blue Sun is not just a mere musical project; it’s a sonic journey that blends between meditative flute tones and digital wind instruments, creating the atmosphere of a warm dreamscape. André 3000 eschews the usual rap elements familiar to fans of earlier Outkast albums, focusing instead on the masterful manipulation of flutes and digital wind instruments. An openness to new influences and an ability to pick up on subtle nuances are key factors in fully immersing oneself in this musical spectacle. With this album, André 3000 shows once again that he can cross boundaries and bring unexpected artistic experiences to his listeners. On the GQ channel, you can watch a unique interview where André introduces his debut album, in addition to describing life after Outkast. A must for everyone.
Drake gave space to the producers we love
SudetyRaport writes about Drake; what happened? Already with the release of For All the Dogs, we were overwhelmed that the beat of 8am in Charlotte was produced by our beloved Conductor Williams. We’re thrilled that one of the biggest rappers of our time gave space to a producer who is known for his underground presence. Last week Drake released the addendum to his latest record, which is titled Scary Hours 3, and once again he has called on some novel producers. The beats were provided by The Alchemist, Ovrkast, and Conductor Williams, among others. The names we write about every week are cementing their position in the rap game, which makes us very happy. We must also praise the massive music video for First Person Shooter feat. J. Cole, which is truly spectacular.
Boldy James and Nicholas Craven released a pilot single from their upcoming album
Boldy James, a prominent Detroit rapper, suffered serious injuries in a car accident earlier this year. He wouldn’t talk too much about his condition, but a new track, Brand New Chanel Kicks, produced by Nicholas Craven, gives a strong account of Boldy’s recovery. James recorded this track in a neck brace and wheelchair, giving listeners a closer look at his struggle to recover. The song reflects Boldy’s difficult journey back to health. Boldy also describes his recent fear of paralysis and his struggle with physical therapy. The track is also the pilot track from his upcoming album Penalty Of Leadership, and all indications are that we really have something to look forward to.
QUICK NEWS
- The Alchemist has released a remix of No Yeast from the album Continuance (w/ Curren$y). In addition to Boldy James, the remix also features a guest appearance by Westside Gunn.
- Sadhugold appeared on “On The Radar” and proved with his flawless freestyle that he is not only one of the best producers but also one of the best rappers.
- One thing is for sure: if you go to a Tyler, The Creator concert, you won’t regret it. The footage of his Live at Camp Flog Gnaw 2023 performance will convince you of that.
- Elzhi & Oh No will release their joint album, Heavy Vibrato, on December 1st. It will feature guest appearances by Dank, Guilty Simpson, Blu, and Phez Roc. Listen to the pilot track, Fireballs.
- Check out the footage of a great performance by Fatboi Sharif, who graced The Fools Gold 15th Anniversary with his presence.
- The latest episode of producer Kenny Beats’ The Cave featured Felix and Louie Pastel of Paris Texas.
- The latest episode of the “Off Top” Beat Set (Top Shelf Premium) featured Drive By. You have a lot to look forward to.¨
- The Cookout 2.0 was certainly a legendary event. You can soak up its atmosphere from the footage of performances by Al-Doe & Spanish Ran.
- Mally Abstract is a master in his field. In this great video, you can get a glimpse into his beat-making process.
- redveil shared footage of his performance at camp flog gnaw 2023, which he ended with a strong gesture of support. Free Palestine.
BEST RELEASES
Yungmorpheus & Real Bad Man – The Chalice & the Blade
YUNGMORPHEUS released From Whence It Came this year, and Real Bad Man completely produced two albums, Serpent (w/ Kool Keith) and Bad News (w/ Blu). It was only a matter of time before they recorded one together. Both Kool Keith and Blu make guest appearances on the record, as does Boldy James, a frequent RBM collaborator. Other artists that shine on the record include Theravada and Fatboi Sharif. YUNGMORPHEUS gravitates towards abstract rap and Real Bad Man towards hazy boom bap inspired beats, so it’s no surprise that these two delicious ingredients taste really good together. The Chalice & the Blade is a very is a very solid record and a subtle change of pace for both.
Blockhead – The Aux
With The Aux album, we have to start the other way around. Legendary producer Blockhead has assembled these guests for his latest record: Aesop Rock, billy woods, Danny Brown, Navy Blue, Bruiser Wolf, Open Mike Eagle, Elucid, Koreatown Oddity, Breezly Brewin, Casual, Brian Ennals, Fatboi Sharif, RXK Nephew, Ugly Frank, Quelle Chris, Curly Castro Creaturenomics, Defcee, Premrock, Despot, and AKAI SOLO. That’s it. The list of rappers above, coupled with the production talents of Blockhead, is a thousand and one reason to give The Aux album a listen. You’ll find countless perfect and original beats that will keep you mesmerized for an hour. Every single rapper has delivered a masterful performance behind the mic, and it’s up to you to decide who will be your favorite. Definitely listen to the whole album, and don’t just go for the rappers you already know. You’ll discover a plethora of artists that may stay with you for life.
DATKIDBRAVO – THANKS BUT, NO THANKS
Do you remember the music video for the song MASSMONEYWIRES by Estee Nack? One of the highlights of the video was a nasty moonwalk by an artist we didn’t know until now. Last week, a new character was unlocked to the world, so we present to you the rapper with the pseudonym DATKIDBRAVO. His latest record, THANKS BUT, NO THANKS, features guest appearances from Estee Nack, Nyeusi Loe, and al.divino. It’s no coincidence that you’ll hear these artists on the album. DATKIDBRAVO has been rapping alongside al.divino since day one, but only now has he decided to kick-start his rap career. So look forward to more uncompromising Massachusetts rap, hard-hitting beats, and bone-chilling flows. DATKIDBRAVO is not far behind artists like Estee Nack and proves with this album that he has a lot to offer. We look forward to his next projects.
NV – Deep Cuts, Vol. 2
NV is a producer and sound engineer based in New York City whose work combines the uncompromising rawness of the city with original and diverse instruments. The result is a gritty and carefully considered soundscape. He won us over last year when he released Consequences with rapper Madhattan. This year, he decided to do a more diverse project while following up on his instrumental record Deep Cuts, Vol. 1, which he released back in 2017. He wanted to liven up his follow-up, so he brought in his favorite artists for the project. Luckily for us, they’re also our favorite artists, so you can look forward to names like Chuck Strangers, LORD JAH-MONTE OGBON, Elcamino, YL, AKTHESAVIOR, and the aforementioned Madhattan. The list of names alone suggests that the album offers a totally unique experience that you shouldn’t miss. Unfortunately, no video was released for the album, so we attached the video for the track 3x.
K.A.A.N. & MIKE SUMMERS – The Nightly News
The Nightly News is not only the tenth EP from rapper K.A.A.N., but another stunning glimpse into his endless musical creativity. Harkening back to his beginnings in 2014, the album has become a significant milestone in his ever-evolving artistic journey. K.A.A.N has made a name for himself in the underground scene with collaborations with producers such as Dem Jointz, Ski Beatz, and Big Ghost Ltd, and The Nightly News builds on his strong discography. The EP’s title track exudes a haunting atmosphere, highlighting the chaotic nuances that local news stations often bring. Once again, K.A.A.N. shows his ability to transport the listener into the storytelling, highlighting important themes and maintaining a unique sound. His collaboration with MIKE SUMMERS is another great sonic adventure. The tracks offer an immersive atmosphere, and the beats create space for K.A.A.N. to excel in his rhythm and lyricism. Unfortunately, no music video was released for the album, so we’re attaching the video for the track The Self Hate.
DOPE ALBUMS
Hus Kingpin is absolutely unstoppable this year and has released another wavy project. lojii & Alexander Spit? We had no idea this was a duo we desperately needed. What happens when two rap legends who still have the drive of rookies come together? 2 Chainz & Lil Wayne have the answer. We introduce you to H31R, an experimental electronic hip-hop duo. Fredro Starr is another legendary artist, churning out one great project after another. Someone just lives for rap. Other great records have been released by Red Inf & Rob Viktum, Speedie Da Icon & Struggle Mike, G Fam Black & Bofaatbeatz, Crotona P & Noam Chopski, and Vinnie Paz.
Hus Kingpin – Slime Wave 2
Red Inf & Rob Viktum – Duffle Bag Dinner
Speedie Da Icon & Struggle Mike – Iconic Legacy
2 Chainz & Lil Wayne – Welcome 2 Collegrove
G Fam Black & Bofaatbeatz – Case Closed
Crotona P & Noam Chopski – Figure 4
Vinnie Paz – All Are Guests In The House Of God
H31R – HeadSpace
Fredro Starr – Legends Corner
BEST MUSIC VIDEOS
We recently praised producer MichaelAngelo’s music videos in an extensive essay. The clip for RZA’S FLOOD only confirmed our point.
Rome Streetz and Conductor Williams are a duo that has no equal. The video for Chrome Magnum evokes the cult film Belly with its color palette.
Music videos are an integral part of rap, and it’s sad that they’re not as important to listeners anymore. Luckily, there are artists like Uncle Al who hold the culture on their shoulders.
al.divino attacks all the senses. His music, together with the video clip, will completely absorb you, and you will dive deeper and deeper into the artist’s world.
Whenever someone from PUBLICHOUSINGNYC releases something, rap culture can celebrate. The video for CLAUDE BROWN is another gem from this unique rap stable.
DOPE VIDEOS
We’re definitely not done with the top five music videos. We’ve picked out ten more dope clips that you definitely need to see. Give all the artists below a chance; they deserve it. Not a week goes by where The Musalini doesn’t release a dope music video. Conway the Machine was born to rap; he reminds us of his impressive skill on the track Painted Houses by artists Smoke DZA and Flying Lotus. Rahiem Supreme is an unstoppable workhorse; if you don’t already know, watch his latest video immediately. AKAI SOLO teases his anticipated album. We wish December was here already. The young talent of Gritfall never ceases to fascinate us. Top-notch clips released last week include Monday Night & Nitty Blanco, Black Josh x Wino Willy, Lord Fury x Selaseson, RIM, and Bub Styles.
Rahiem Supreme x Look Damien! “Flesh tones”
Monday Night & Nitty Blanco – Like Yo’ Momma
The Musalini – Hustle On (feat. Famus AAA) (Prod By Smoove)
Black Josh x Wino Willy – Pray
Smoke DZA – Painted Houses (feat. Flying Lotus & Conway the Machine)
Bub Styles – Lifelike Portraits (feat. Pounds448)
Lord Fury x Selaseson – Dirty Discount
Gritfall & Millwood “Fall Feeling”
AKAI SOLO – All Yours (prod. TwentyFifthNight)
And that’s it all the important news on the scene from the last week. What caught your eye this week? Let us know on Instagram or Twitter. You can expect another one next Monday. It’s going to be really interesting, so don’t miss it.
