Welcome to our Rap Weekly 84: The Alchemist and Oh No have luck in their hands. Every Monday, we’ll take you into the world of rap and summarise the most exciting news, announcements and can’t-miss stories. Find out everything you need to know in one place. We only write about the best, so you get the best rap delicacies on a golden platter. Drake strikes back, the anticipated diss on Kendrick, Future and others is out. Rap’s biggest dream comes true: Nas and DJ Premier release a joint album. Hus Kingpin fuses rap with the legendary Nirvana and puts the listener in a trance through words full of power. All this and much more in Rap Weekly.
NEWS OF THE WEEK
The Alchemist and Oh No have luck in their hands
The Alchemist, among many other things, released a successful album, The Great Escape, with Larry June last year, and after a long time, he gave us a project on which he also raps. Yes, we are referring to 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 Oh No, and since then they’ve released three albums and several EPs. Their latest album, You Disgust Me, was released in 2015. The duo even released a collaborative project with Roc Marciano, and in 2013, they composed original music for Grand Theft Auto V with Tangerine Dream and Woody Jackson. When you’re driving around Los Santos and hear the iconic track Welcome to Los Santos, you’ll know that The Alchemist and Oh No worked on it. Now comes phase two. Gangrene is back with their new album, Heads I Win, Tails You Lose.
All of Gangrene’s albums draw you into their iconic and adrenaline-pumped worlds. Both The Alchemist and Oh No keep specific beats for Gangrene projects that will blow you away with their uniqueness, punch, and unpredictability. Both producers have done an excellent job, and the album features some of the best beats of 2024. However, The Alchemist and Oh No are absolutely uncompromising behind the mic as well, and you can look forward to both funny and bone-chilling bars full of associations and visual parables. Gangrene doesn’t have to follow the rules of the real world, so you can look forward to prehistoric flexing, for example. Gangrene have you in the palm of their hands; don’t leave their fate to chance. They are the most technologically advanced cyborgs who have come to the casino and know they have the technology to rob everyone in the casino. But maybe they won’t use the technology because that wouldn’t be so much fun.
NEWS
Rap’s biggest dream comes true: Nas and DJ Premier release a joint album
There is no doubt that Illmatic is one of the best, if not the best, rap albums of all time. Nasty Nas changed the world on April 19, 1994, with his revolutionary album, and even thirty years since its release, it has lost none of its magic. Illmatic celebrated its thirtieth birthday last week, and Nas gave fans the best gift they could have asked for. He released the single Define My Name, produced by DJ Premier. It was Preemo who produced legendary tracks like N.Y. State of Mind and Memory Lane (Sittin’ in the Park) on Illmatic. There is perhaps no album in rap culture that fans want more than a joint album by Nas and Preemo. This album has been talked about for decades, and all signs point to it finally coming this year. Yes, we don’t believe it ourselves, but Nas announced at the end of the song Define My Name that he is working on an album with Premier that should be released later this year. There’s not much to add to this information, except maybe that it’s going to be really hard to live up to all the expectations.
Raz Fresco has revealed his plans
The rap world is being flooded with waves of exciting new art, and Canadian rapper Raz Fresco will make several waves this year. He recently surprised his fans with the announcement of several albums he will be releasing this year. First on the list is a collaborative album with rapper Daniel Son, Northside, which promises to have a Northern-style energy. Fresco handles all the beats. Another project to look forward to is a collaboration with rapper Cavalier. Fresco will be producing again, and we’re curious to see what magical mix he has in store for us. Next up is a record with rapper Estee Nack, which Raz Fresco will produce. This combination promises a fiery blend of lyrical talent and a flawless sonic experience. We continue with another collaborative release, this time with rapper Why G. With Fresco’s production hand at the helm, we can’t wait for an uncompromising sonic experience. Another treasure on the list of upcoming projects is an album titled The Cream Tape, where Raz Fresco is joined by artists The 6th Letter and Billie Essco. This mix promises to be an explosion of talent and creativity. And now, the biggest bombshell! Raz Fresco is set to release a record with legendary producer DJ Muggs. This is a connection that evokes excitement and a desire for a unique sonic experience. But that’s not all! In addition to the projects mentioned above, we can also look forward to older albums that will be released on streaming platforms for the first time. These include KNOCKOUT with Dibiase and Pocket Operations III: Breakfast In Berlin. In addition, Pocket Operations III will be released on a unique vinyl that will bring together all three parts of Pocket Operations. Raz Fresco undoubtedly keeps up a relentless pace as his work continues to improve, bringing us surprising and ingenious musical experiences.
Drake strikes back, the anticipated diss on Kendrick, Future and others is out
Read carefully, because this situation is starting to get messy. Future & Metro Boomin have stirred up the rap waters with their excellent 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. A few weeks later, J. Cole released the surprise album Might Delete Later, he responded to a diss from K. Dot, but then apologized and deleted the disstrack. Future & Metro Boomin released another album, We Still Don’t Trust You, on Friday, 4/12, which again features Drake references. Nasty things have been said about him by The Weekend, for example. Rick Ross also released his disstrack, so it was clear that Drake just had to respond. We won’t dwell on any leaks; the official response didn’t come until last Friday. With his track Push Ups, Drake strikes back at all those who dissed him. He attacks from all angles, railing against the quality of his art, success, money, influence, admiration, independence, and, of course, ad hominem insults. We’re glad to see the determination coming from Drake and that the rap game has a sauce it hasn’t had in a long time. Now we wait for Kendrick’s response.
QUICK NEWS
- Cise Greeny released the METAL HEAD & MASTER SWORD albums on streaming services and added a sweet treat in the form of a music video for “GERUDO’S FORTRESS” (PROD. BY GARCON D’OR).
- Fly Anakin and Big Kahuna OG star in a new episode of “On The Radar” Freestyle.
- AJ Suede has announced Ark Flashington Deluxe, which will be released on May 3 and features four new tracks.
- Stove God Cook$ and Stoupe released another great single.
- Tyler, The Creator performed at the Coachella festival and once again created memorable rap moments.
BEST ALBUMS
Hus Kingpin – IN A STATE OF NIRVANA
Hus Kingpin presents his new album, IN A STATE OF NIRVANA, which offers eight tracks full of intense rap expression. With no guests, Hus Kingpin delves into solo expression and offers us a unique perspective on the world. The lyrics reflect a rich variety of ideas, from musings on illusions of the sun and peaceful trees to reverence for spiritual deities. They also touch on themes such as secrecy, trust, and the defense of individuality. Hus Kingpin guides us through words full of strength and choice while expressing concern about the dangers of collective pressure. Overall, this is an album that calls for personal and social defiance and celebrates freedom of expression. Unfortunately, no music video was released for the album, so we are attaching the video for the track Ghost In The Sunshine / Wizard of Dons.
Tylr C & Faze the Villain – Villainous Encounters
Clear the way; Tylr C & Faze the Villain are coming. The duo has released Villainous Encounters, an album that is a celebration of the art of rap. On the very first track, Tylr C and Faze pay homage to all the rappers who have influenced them. In doing so, they reflect that the aforementioned rappers have not only influenced their art but have also helped shape their values and worldview. Tylr C & Faze the Villain are incredibly relaxed throughout the album, and you will be entertained throughout the entire record. Kudos must also go to producers Jxsn Beats, SolH, EDBA, and Supersuit, who have produced resounding beats with great samples that will no doubt brighten your day. Unfortunately, no music video was released for the album, so we’re attaching the whole album.
Cavalier – Different Type Time
Cavalier, a legend of underground rap, has numerous LPs to his credit and contributed to the debut of Quelle Chris. Yet he comes across as a wandering ghost who never stays in one place for too long. Everyone knows him, and his presence is always felt, but there’s always a wait for the moment when Cavalier steals the spotlight for himself. That time is now. It’s Different Type Time, a time that has no expiration date. Cavalier’s debut under Backwoodz Studioz is a massive opus and one of the most mesmerizing rap albums of 2024. The album will envelop you and erase all imaginary space-time boundaries. You will travel between past and present, between cities and countryside, and you will explore every nook and cranny of the rapper’s mind to the sounds of jazz-tinged beats. Different Type Time tastes like life; it’s the conversations around us, human embrace, and pain. It’s already clear that this album will redefine who Cavalier is, and we hope that, at least for a while, this rap spirit will materialize and be seen and, more importantly, heard alongside mortals.
NugLife – NUGLIFE 2024
NUGLIFE 2024 is like a musical trip to the heart of the streets of Los Angeles. You’ll find a wide range of artists, such as Papa J. Ruiz, Xp The Marxman, Rocky G, and more, who come together to create an atmosphere of authenticity and street culture. The lyrics of the songs fill us in on life on the west coast, from carefree car rides around the city to smoking marijuana at sunset. Each track is a glimpse into a world where reality mixes with illusion and where everyday experience collides with the dangers of the street. Despite the darker tones of the lyrics, they still reflect a love of the city and pride in belonging to Los Angeles.
Vega7 The Ronin – Shadow Runner
The album Shadow Runner by Vegy7 The Ronin is like a musical trip into the world of sci-fi adventure. With twelve tracks full of intense music, it takes the listener into dark and futuristic environments that are both engaging and provocative. With guests such as Wiz Kelly, Khalid Salaam, and Lord Owen, the album gains further depth and variety. With lyrics that evoke images of warnings and existential threats, Shadow Runner not only sonically appeals but also stimulates the mind. It’s a piece of music that draws you in and doesn’t let go until the very end. Unfortunately, no music video was released for the album, so we are attaching the video for the track REM.
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. KHEYZINE has invited a plethora of talented underground artists for his great beats. If you’re looking for an uncompromising rap album, Càirdeas is for you. Guests include Estee Nack and al.divino. Rahiem Supreme is here with another gem, this time teaming up with Japanese producer Budamunk. Excellent albums have also been released by Bless Picasso, Vincent, The Owl & Nick Catchdubs, Filip Neuf & Dedwrite, Kooley High & Tuamie, Reks & Nezra, G Fam Black & Chuck Chan, and Marz One & Supreme Da Almighty.
Codenine & Chronic Tone – Càirdeas
KHEYZINE ” FINEST DIAMONDS I ”
Rahiem Supreme x Budamunk – Street Sharkz
Bless Picasso – Rillest in the Room
Vincent, The Owl & Nick Catchdubs – 100 Proof
Filip Neuf & Dedwrite – Lunch money
Kooley High & Tuamie – All Infinite
Reks & Nezra – A Vibe Called Yes
G Fam Black & Chuck Chan – No Remorse
Marz One & Supreme Da Almighty – 1000 Lives
BEST MUSIC VIDEOS
Dylan Gray will surround you with unending darkness. GRAYSTATION 2 is coming soon.
Jadasea once again does not hold back with his unique empathy and self-reflection. The album Too Many Tears will be released on May 2nd.
KING VISION ULTRA and Desde have released a music video unlike anything you’ve seen before.
CHRIS JOSE & DANGO FORLAINE and GRITFALL teach what a masterful rap should look like.
Raz Fresco and Gritfall spitting knowledge to the beat from Cookin Soul. They conduct their bars like masters of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
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. Gabe ‘Nandez and Wino Willy are releasing another banger, with a new record from Gabe coming out this week. AJ Tracy has released another hit. For fans of golden age rap, we bring you Snoop Dogg on a beat from DJ Premier. Top-notch music videos were also released last week by 2As, Seafood Sam, SALIMATA, David Dallas, Grafh, Royce Da 5’9″, Fliptrix, and Ray Vaughn.
Gabe ‘Nandez, Wino Willy – Hieronymus Bosch Levels
Seafood Sam – Cowboy Leather (feat. Pink Siifu)
SALIMATA – u kno who u are (feat. MIKE)
Fliptrix – Funky Microphone (Prod. Leaf Dog)
Grafh, Royce Da 5’9″ – Never Leaving
DJ Premier x Snoop Dogg – Can U Dig That? feat. Daz Dillinger
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.
