Welcome to our Rap Weekly 82: J. Cole vs Kendrick Lamar. 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: The Dreamville founder released a surprise album and struck back. Future & Metro Boomin will release another collaborative record, We Still Don’t Trust You, this Friday. The Alchemist takes the mic again, here comes Gangrene 2.0. Da$H will hypnotize you with his new music video in a way only he can. Strandz once again brings a fresh wind to the UK scene. What dope albums and music videos have been released last two weeks? That and much more can be found by scrolling down.
NEWS OF THE WEEK
J. Cole vs Kendrick Lamar
As we write in the news below, Future & Metro Boomin have stirred up the rap waters with their great album We Don’t Trust You. They didn’t hold back with anyone, and guest Kendrick Lamar even dissed J. Cole and Drake. So the whole rap world was waiting for a response. Drake has been reluctant so far, but J. Cole, founder of Dreamville Records, is striking back.
J. Cole released his last album, The Off-Season, in May 2021. He had already announced a new album, The Fall Off, some time ago, which should be out soon. On Friday, however, he surprised the world when he not only responded to Kendrick’s diss but released an entire album, Might Delete Later, straight away. J. Cole sprinkles his biting remarks throughout the album, but the direct confrontation with Kendrick doesn’t come until the album’s final track. Tell us who you’re rooting for in the rap battle on Instagram or Twitter, but we were extremely happy to hear that the second half of the aforementioned track was produced by the one and only Conductor Williams. J. Cole obviously knows who is one of the best producers at the moment. The album gave us another dream collaboration, and that is the track Stickz N Stonez, produced by The Alchemist. We were wondering if Kendrick would respond, if Drake would join the shootout, and also how the We Still Don’t Trust You album, which we write about below, would change the situation, but then something happened that we didn’t expect. J. Cole apologized to Kendrick at his Dreamville Festival on April 7, saying he hasn’t slept well the past few days and plans to delete Disstrack from streaming services. Well, that hasn’t happened here yet…
NEWS
We Still Don’t Trust You
Future and Metro Boomin stirred up the rap waters with their great album We Don’t Trust You. They gave listeners exactly what they wanted; they didn’t mess with anyone, and guest Kendrick Lamar even dissed J. Cole and Drake. J. Cole responded to K. Dot’s jab last week on his album Might Delete Later, leaving us anxious to see what comes next. In just one week, however, all rap eyes will once again be on the duo of Future & Metro Boomin, who will release a new full-length album titled We Still Don’t Trust You on Friday, April 12. Yes, don’t expect any deluxe version of this year’s first record; expect a full-length, separate album. That’s not all; the artists have released a behind-the-scenes video from the Young Metro music video shoot. Bon Appetit.
The Alchemist takes the mic again, here comes Gangrene 2.0
The Alchemist has built an unprecedented position in the rap game over the past two decades. He has been one of rap’s most prominent artists for over a decade, yet he has been gaining more and more attention. Last year, he released the successful album The Great Escape with Larry June, and for the first time in a while, he gave us a project on which he also raps. Yes, we’re talking about the EP Flying High: Part Two. It’s no secret that The Alchemist is a great rapper; he even has several rap projects to his credit. In 2019, he formed the duo Gangrene with producer and rapper Ohno, under which they released three albums and several EPs. Their last album, You Disgust Me, was released in 2015. The duo even has a joint project with Roc Marciano. Now comes the second phase. Gangrene will be back on April 19 with their new album, Heads I Win, Tails You Lose. You can already check out the great trailer and video for the pilot track, Oxnard Water Torture.
STONE TEMPLE PYREX, a journey through uncompromising reality, is on streaming platforms
Delve into the dark alleys and feelings of uncompromising reality with STONE TEMPLE PYREX. Estee Nack and Futurewave have created a work that is not just a musical album but rather an emotional journey into a world where pain and hope collide. The lyrics take a relentless look at life on the streets but also reveal deeper thoughts and desires hidden behind the tough facade. Estee Nack’s verbal dexterity and emotional depth are intertwined with Futurewave’s hypnotic beats, creating an unforgettable sonic experience. Guest artists such as Rome Streetz, Daniel Son, and others bring their distinctive perspectives and add to the richness and diversity of the album. STONE TEMPLE PYREX is not just listening material; it’s a journey that draws you into a world of real emotions and experiences. Estee Nack and Futurewave don’t just share music; they share their hearts and souls.
QUICK NEWS
- Rapsody opens Chapter 2: Unconditional and teases her new album.
- NxWorries (Anderson .Paak & Knxwledge) have announced a new album to be released on June 7th. Watch the first music video.
- Mike Shabb has announced the release date of SEWASIDE III. The anticipated project will be released on May 17th.
- Watch the masters at work. Spanish Ran released ”Church Sessions” Episode 3 Vol 1.
- Will The Alchemist and Hit-Boy release a joint album? “If i told you , you wouldnt believe me,” Uncle Al tweeted.
BEST ALBUMS
sagun & AKTHESAVIOR – u r not alone
u r not alone brings a deep and emotional look at the human experience through the raw authenticity of rap. AKTHESAVIOR and sagun have combined their art to create an intense project that speaks to the hearts and minds of listeners. Lyrics range from introspective reflections to a combative determination to overcome life’s internal and external obstacles. Each bar is like a window into the soul of the artists, who are not afraid to share their deepest feelings and experiences. Guests such as Mick Jenkins, Azizi Gibson, and others add another layer of complexity to the project, enhancing its overall strength and impact. The record is a message of solidarity and hope for all those who feel abandoned and lost. AKTHESAVIOR and sagun have created a space where everyone can find community and support.
Cookin Soul & The Musalini – Mackaroni
Mackaroni is a tasty treat for fans of quality rap. The Musalini and Cookin Soul have created an album that has the best of old-school hip-hop with a modern twist. The lyrics are full of raw energy and life wisdom that resonate with listeners. Musalini’s flow is uncompromising and compelling, while Cookie Soul’s production style gives the entire project a unique vibe. The album features names like Hus KingPin, Tha God Fahim who bring further diversity. Mackaroni is like a culinary masterpiece that fuses different flavors to create a unique experience for every listener. This project is clear proof that classic hip-hop still has something to offer and that Musalini and Cookin Soul are the right team to revive it for a new generation of fans.
Eddie Kaine & Big Ghost Ltd – Last Exit to Crooklyn
Eddie Kaine is undoubtedly one of Brooklyn’s most distinctive rappers. His ability to portray life in his borough in detail, to draw the listener into the heart of the action, and to reflect on the problems there is truly admirable. We follow every rapper’s project closely, and last year we recommended Quincy St. Blues. Still, we dare say that the turning point in Eddie’s career was 2021’s A Tree Grows In Brooklyn, which was produced entirely by one and only Big Ghost Ltd. Three years later, the duo reunited to release Last Exit to Crooklyn, the follow-up to their 2021 gem. Last Exit to Crooklyn is another flawless trip to Brooklyn that will get your adrenaline pumping. Eddie Kaine lets all of his skills shine here, even reaching for a novel concept with Rim on the track Crooktown, and the track is a dialogue. You can also look forward to a hard-hitting posse cut with great guests. In short, you’ll find everything a rap album should have. Unfortunately, no music video was released for the album, so check out the video for the track East Flatbush.
SOO DO KOO – CONCERNING BEHAVIOR
SOO DO KOO returns with CONCERNING BEHAVIOR, an album that brings the signature energy and charisma of this talented rapper. Without a single guest on the album, SOO has a chance to really stand out and show his artistic strength. The tracks on the album are full of original lyrics and beats that capture different aspects of SOO DO KOO’s life and artistic evolution. His performance allows listeners to delve deeper into his thoughts and experiences. The album is proof that SOO DO KOO still maintains his place as a unique voice in the rap scene. His new album is a refreshing and authentic addition to his discography. Unfortunately, no music video was released for the album, so we are attaching the full album.
Cise Greeny – Master Sword
Draw your sword; the Proper Spiritual Growth Saga continues. Cise Greeny won us over last year with his albums BIONIC ARM and METAL HEAD, the second mentioned one we even included in the TOP 100 Best Rap Albums of 2023. This year, we move from technocratic concepts to the magical world together with the artist. Nothing stops the inevitable, and so our rap hero gets MASTER SWORD. The new album is once again full of positive energy, great beats, and sophisticated lyrics. The album is again about spiritual growth, finding inner balance, and soaking up all the details that surround us. It’s about never-ending self-reflection, constantly re-evaluating our attitudes and the space between us and other people. It’s fascinating how authentic and immersive the atmosphere Cise has created is. The album is really full of positive energy, yet this is no cheap project. Don’t look for consumerist and materialistic values here; Greeny doesn’t position himself as a motivator or patron. The greatest power is found in the love for yourself and your community, then your sword will be as sharp as the blade of MASTER SWORD.
DOPE ALBUMS
The five albums mentioned above are not the only ones you should hear. We’ve picked ten more dope albums that no one should miss. Give all the projects mentioned a chance; every single one deserves it. Kemp Dupri & Masala Mane dazzled us last year with Yemaya, and now they have released another gem. Mickey Diamond is once again absolutely uncompromising. Xp The Marxman and IceRocks take us to Amsterdam on their new project. Excellent albums have also been released by Backwood Sweetie, Waterr, Heartbreak Julio & Retrospec, Dough Networkz & Win or Lose Records, Chris Patrick, Dizzy Wright, and gustavo louis.
Kemp Dupri & Masala Mane! – F*CK EM, WE BALL!
Backwood Sweetie – Burn One
Waterr – The Honorable, Vol. 2
Xp The Marxman & IceRocks – The Amsterdam EP
Mickey Diamond & Ral Duke – Super Shredder
Heartbreak Julio & Retrospec – Four The Soul
Dough Networkz & Win or Lose Records – Dis for the Project, Vol. 3
Chris Patrick – THE CALM
Dizzy Wright – Harsh Reality
gustavo louis – TAG TEAM
BEST MUSIC VIDEOS
Strandz once again brings a fresh wind to the UK scene. This talent redefines his sound with every track.
Da$H will hypnotize you with his new music video in a way only he can.
Passport Rav shows his lyrical bravado on the track My Brother.
HUNNALOE & THE DUTCHMASTER combine the beauty of visual arts and rap art in their new music video.
Rahiem Supreme and Wino Willy have earned legendary status after their album last year. Watch their another unique music video.
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. Bub Styles and Lord Sko? We’ve been waiting for this collaboration. Kemp Dupri & Juan Rutina reflect on the duality of life in a beautiful music video. Wavy Bagels & DRIVEBY have announced a collaborative album. We can’t wait. Top-notch music videos were also released last week by LIFEOFTHOM, BoriRock, Starz Coleman, UFO Fev & Red Inf, ZelooperZ & Zack Fox, Tree Mason & Spanish Ran, and Gabe ‘Nandez.
LIFEOFTHOM – INTERSTELLAR ft. Da$H
Wavy Bagels & DRIVEBY – SAN JUAN
Bub Styles feat. Lord Sko – Can’t Buy Class (prod. 183rd)
Starz Coleman x Arkin x Frenchie Colonized
UFO Fev & Red Inf – Dark Corners (Prod. Vanderslice) (Dir. Selva)
”Starter Jackets” Tree Mason & Spanish Ran
Kemp Dupri & Juan Rutina – Paint On The Walls
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.
