upcoming album

The Alchemist Picks Up The Mic On “60 Days” With Larry June

by

Hopefully The Alchemist and Larry June are dropping their album soon, because their latest single “60 Days” is so promising. Moreover, the track features both California rap artists in their best elements. On one hand, June comes through with steady and effortless verses, whereas Al- wait, did he just start rapping? Not only does The Alchemist produce here, but he gifts fans a nice 8-bar verse with some engaging rhymes and wordplay. Of course, Al got his start as an MC and that, paired with his decades of experiences, might be lost on newer listeners. Overall, if you had a doubt about either of these artists, “60 Days” indicates that a project could just bring out the best in each other.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 31: The Alchemist performs during NBA Leather Tour at O2 Academy Brixton on May 31, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Burak Cingi/Redferns)

First, the instrumental here is classic Alchemist production. For example, the bright and otherworldly string samples and very light beat contrast with deep bass. As perfectly evidenced on albums of his like Sandwich, he’s a master at making a grimy beat feel wondrous, and a dreamy instrumental feel grounded. It also pairs well with June’s more understated delivery here, even as he details his lavish lifestyle. Most importantly, maybe these contrasts are indicative of the tracks themes. A lot can happen in 60 days, and there’s always the conflict between where you are and what it took to get you there.

Still, what did you think of this newest track from Larry June and The Alchemist, the lush “60 Days”? Moreover, are you looking forward to a new album from the two? However you feel, let us know in the comments and check out the music video and standout bars down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the single on your preferred streaming service. As always, come back to HNHH for the best new music of the week from top-tier rappers, producers, or both.

Quotable Lyrics
Know how to spot and catch a phony and do the plaxico to myself before the matrimony (Shoot myself)
Stick shift Aston, I’m diggin’ in my trick basket (Yeah)
Fixin’ plays, cut up the pot and split the change (60 days)
A lot of s**t could happen in 60 days

Hitkidd Drops Female Rap Posse Cut Single, “You The Type”

by

“F.N.F. (Let’s Go)” producer Hitkidd just released “You the Type” with Aleza, K Carbon, Slimeroni, and Gloss Up. Overall, it’s a fiery and hard-hitting trap cut with great energy from every single female MC. In fact, they’re all from GloRilla’s clique, with whom the producer made their breakout track last year. Furthermore, each rapper gets a moment of shine via short and sweet verses that don’t let the energy up. As far as the instrumental, it’s just as murderous and bass-heavy as you’d expect from a Memphis production. However, it feels particularly dramatic or menacing thanks to low piano chords and regal melodies.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 05: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Hitkidd attends the 65th GRAMMY Awards on February 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/WireImage)

Unfortunately, the “F.N.F.” collaborators had a small falling out a couple of months ago as GloRilla and Hitkidd discussed contract issues. However, the producer’s longtime business partner Kadeem Phillips provided a third perspective, albeit from Hitkidd’s camp. “Glo independently collects money for FNF its all hers she just doesnt own the song and never will,” he wrote. “We actually saved her from losing millions and Glo was able to get a deal without having to sell her independent record. FNF was created to help all the girls not for CMG.”

Still what did you think of this latest Memphis posse cut, “You the Type” with Hitkidd, Aleza, K Carbon, Slimeroni, and Gloss Up? However you feel, let us know in the comments and check out standout bars and the music video down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the track yet, you can find the loaded new song on your preferred streaming service. As always, come back to HNHH every week for the best new music releases.

Quotable Lyrics
I’m that type of b***h, I want your n***a, I’ll come snatch him (I’ll come take him)
Now she mad about her n**a, na-na, come get him back then
At my shows strapped and s**t, a hundred shots up in this backpack (A hundred rounds)
Can’t get caught up by his b***h, so he still hit me through his Snapchat (Yeah, his Snap)

Talib Kweli & Madlib Announce Joint Album, “Liberation 2”

by

Talib Kweli and Madlib just announced Liberation 2, a sequel to their 2007 collab album releasing on March 6. While it will release exclusively on the Luminary podcast network, they released the project’s first single “After These Messages” via a YouTube music video. Moreover, the track features a very special performance from Kweli’s son, Amani. In addition, the Black Star’s daughter Diani will also appear on Liberation 2‘s tracklist. With this announcement, hip-hop fans are likely salivating at this collaboration between two legends in the game.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 26: Talib Kweli attends the Legacy Grand Opening with Talib Kweli on August 26, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Still, the fact that it’s only coming out via a podcast network is likely disappointing for the Spotify-aligned fans out there. However, it calls back to its first installment, Liberation, and its similarly unorthodox release. Moreover, Kweli and Madlib released the album as a full download online in early 2007. It wasn’t in record stores, but rather on the Stones Throw Rappcats website and both artists’ MySpace pages. Also, this isn’t the first time the Brooklyn rapper has worked with Luminary. Exclusively through that platform, he and Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) released a long-awaited return from their duo Black Star. Their album No Fear of Time released in May of 2022.

Furthermore, the sequel to their fan-favorite Liberation collaboration will feature Q-Tip, Roc Marciano, and Westside Gunn. In addition, Liberation 2 is reportedly including a posthumous Mac Miller performance, as well. Kweli expressed that their recording process took a decade, and spoke on his thematic intent. “People today are taking stock of what is most important — family, health, wellness, love,” he remarked in a statement. “The materialism and debauchery that is stereotypically associated with hip-hop has lost some of its luster.

“Madlib and I have been consistent in our messaging,” he continued. “Never has there been a better time for such honest, message-driven music that pays tribute to the sounds that came before us.” Whereas Talib recently revived his duo, the legendary producer beside him recently continued his work on forming one of the best current duos. Him and Freddie Gibbs have incredible chemistry on wax, as evidenced by their most recent effort, 2019’s Bandada. Regardless, come back to HNHH for the upcoming album, and for more release news from your favorite hip-hop artists.

[via]

LL Cool J Speaks On Upcoming Album, Praises Q-Tip’s Production

by

LL Cool J recently opened up about his forthcoming album and praised the legendary Q-Tip for his excellent executive production. While the rapper celebrated a big night at the 65th Grammy Awards red carpet, he’s got an even bigger year ahead. Moreover, this new LP from LL will be his first since 2013’s Authentic. “I know all the tricks. I got this covered,” he expressed to E! News. “Look, it was executive produced by Q-Tip. The album I think is really, really special. I think it’s something it’s modern without chasing. It’s a whole new thing. I can’t wait for the people to see it.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 05: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) (L-R) Melle Mel, LL Cool J and GloRilla performs during the 65th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Timothy Norris/FilmMagic)

“I think honestly and sincerely that Q-Tip as a producer is unbelievable and what he did on this record for me, I think is amazing,” he continued. “So the world will decide.” Shortly after the Grammys, the rap pioneer doubled down on his promo via Twitter. “My new album is coming this year,” he wrote earlier today (February 6). Also, he previously teased his next album on his 55th birthday. “I’m competing with myself on this new album. Wait til you hear this MF,” the MC tweeted. “This year B. It’s coming.” As he also celebrates hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, it’s going to be a big year for the Rock The Bells mogul.

On that note, he hosted a celebration for the genre at the Grammy awards ceremony. Alongside The Roots, with the occasion curated by their drummer and icon Questlove, he blended different eras of hip-hop together. While DJ Jazzy Jeff and DJ Drama controlled the mixers, hip-hop history unfolded on the Grammys stage. It began with performances from some of its pioneers: Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Run-DMC, and LL Cool J himself. Then, the show moved through a barrage of rap icons playing some of their biggest hits.

Meanwhile, the newer generations also got their slice of the pie. Following Method Man, Queen Latifah, and Public Enemy, artists like Missy Elliott, Nelly, and Busta Rhymes kept the energy up. Finally, the show rounded out with some big current names like Lil Baby, GloRilla, and Lil Uzi Vert. Between this and more great music from some of the genre’s legends, all we can do is wait patiently and take it all in. As always, log back into HNHH for the latest on LL Cool J, upcoming albums, and the artistry of hip-hop.

[via]

Rarelyalways Says It’s “URGENT” On New Song

by

The U.K.’s own Rarelyalways just dropped his second single of the year, and it’s “URGENT” that you give it a chance. Moreover, the South London artist will drop his debut album Work later in the year on March 10. Also, this isn’t the first teaser we’ve received for the project. Just a couple of weeks ago, he released two new tracks: “LET’S” and “Voice note 0142.” With these grimy and energetic tracks, Rarelyalways is setting up a varied and widely-influenced body of work. After all, his background in music education and lifetime of loving music of all kinds should make for an incredible combo. Furthermore, “URGENT” is a woozy, deeply psychedelic, and atmospheric cut that pulls from varied sonic territory.

While the track’s percussion and emphatic flows fit into a hip-hop formula, the rest of the instrumentation reveals Rarely’s creativity. For one, there are some old-school DJ scratches throughout this track that give it a retro feel at certain points. Also, there’s a hypnotic and effect-heavy synth line that persists menacingly in the background, fading in and out. Still, the additional uses of strings swells and deep bass provide a solid foundation for the rapper’s hardened life stories. However, one of the track’s best features is its hazy and abstract song structure. All of its elements fight for the listener’s attention and bob in and out of the track, changing its focus. Once those trumpet lines come in, they pull you out of the murky beat, and drop you right back in once they end.

Still, what did you think of Rarelyalways latest track, “URGENT”? Moreover, are you looking forward to his March 10 debut album, Work? Let us know in the comments and check out some standout bars and the single’s music video down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the eerie song on your preferred streaming service. As always, log back into HNHH for the best new music in hip-hop and beyond released each week.

Quotable Lyrics
You can hold a box of tissue, they want me on the curb doin’ big issue,
No parachute, but I stay wishful, had to play radical, swindle,
Sustainted injuries, additional, globalized, I was sacrificial,
I stood ground, no need for a pistol, wrist taking’s part of the ritual

Kelvyn Colt Goes “EYE4EYE” On New Single

by

Kelvyn Colt is back with his latest single, the minimal and club-influenced “EYE4EYE.” While that club influence might lead you to expect trendier sounds, Colt proves anything but. Moreover, this new track is tense, slightly industrial, and nothing if not thrilling from start to finish.

MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Kelvyn Colt attends Prada Fall/Winter 2023/2024 Menswear Fashion Show on January 15, 2023 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Prada)

What’s more is that the German-Nigerian artist is gearing to drop his new project GERMAN ANGST.

“EYE4EYE” is the first single off my new project GERMAN ANGST,” he stated. Furthermore, he called it a “reflection on the culture of revenge and male toxicity, as well as the question of forgiveness. I explore my own experiences of being cheated by another artist, whom I had paid for a feature, and how I chose not to seek revenge but instead to maintain a clear conscience. In the song I’m trying to express the doubts and questions I have in mind about this topic and the hypocritical stance we as individuals take on it.”

Meanwhile, the instrumental here is an eerie and slowly building piece of industrial and electronic hip-hop. For example, the heavy kick drums only show up when the song is reaching a peak, culminating in an explosive outro. While Colt’s flows certainly keep the tempo steady, there’s a captivating soaring synth line that saws through and energizes the track. In fact, some listeners might even catch a bit of Jersey club influence in the ending’s drum pattern.

Still, what did you think of Kelvyn Colt’s latest song, “EYE4EYE”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some standout bars and the amazing music video for the single down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the track on your preferred streaming service. As always, log back into HNHH for the next rap stars, big hits, and the best new music each week.

Quotable Lyrics

Intercept before the show, get back yo’ dough with maybe more,
I said ‘No’, he said ‘Yeah’, I said ‘Hold on’, he said ‘My bro,
This s**t gonna get you clout and money, what you want more?’
And I replied, ‘Peace when I’m overseas on tour’

Logic Is Executive-Producing Juicy J’s Next Album

by

Logic will executive-produce Juicy J’s next album, set for release sometime soon this year, hopefully. Moreover, the past collaborators uploaded a cheeky interview-style video to talk about their team-up. While it’s been a minute since the two cooked up together on a track, this crossover will be nothing short of curious, and potentially a classic this year.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 18: Rapper Juicy J of Three Six Mafia performs onstage during Once Upon a Time in LA Music Festival at Banc of California Stadium on December 18, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

Furthermore, the DMV rapper hinted at what Juicy’s next sonic direction will look like.

“For those of you who don’t know,” he said, “I, Logic, am actually executive producing one of Juicy J’s next albums.” Interestingly, he said “one of,” so maybe this year is more fruitful than we thought. Still, Juicy J hasn’t revealed any release date info or other album details. However, from Logic’s word, fans expect a pretty unique and exciting escapade from the Three 6 Mafia icon.

“It’s the most Dilla, Hip Hop, Alchemist, gangsta, Madlib, f**king dopest sh*t ever.”

In fact, readers might be surprised at the deep-rooted connection between these two MCs. Back in December of 2020, the Memphis rapper said that his “best friend” Logic helped him come up with his iconic “shut the f**k up” producer tag.

“Logic is my best friend, man,” he told HipHopDX. “We hang out all the time. We was in the studio and he was just talking. He’s like, ‘Man, what did Juicy J say? Shut the f**k up.’” We was just being funny. And I said, ‘Hey.’ I stopped it. I told the engineer, ‘You recorded that?’ He’s like, ‘Yeah,’ I said, ‘Man, I’m using that as my producer tag because that s**t is hard. You talking is.’ We didn’t say, ‘Hey, Logic, go in the studio, I mean go in the booth and do this.’ He just said it and it was recording.”

Considering all this, are you looking forward to Juicy J’s next album, executive-produced by Logic? Whatever the case, feel free to let us know in the comments below and make sure to check their collabs out. Also, as always, stay logged into HNHH for the latest release rumors, rap team-ups, and anticipated albums in the game.

[via]

Lil Yachty Drops Trippy Skit Ahead Of New Album

by

Lil Yachty just dropped a skit titled “Department of Mental Tranquility” on social media to promote his upcoming album, Let’s Start Here. Moreover, the skit contains him entering a mysterious office of some kind, with wacky characters, jarring cinematography, and eerie narration. Overall, it seems like a brash and expressive statement from one of hip-hop’s most curious creatives.

ATLANTA, GA – OCTOBER 19: Lil Yachty performs during Wicked (Spelhouse Homecoming Concert) Featuring 21 Savage at Forbes Arena at Morehouse College on October 19, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

“At the end of this hallway is the edge of oblivion,” Yachty opens with narration. He walks into an office titled the “Department of Mental Tranquility” or DMT. Maybe this will be the psychedelic and trippy indie album we never knew we needed from Yachty. Nevertheless, he continues. “Whilst the man you are watching may not know it yet, this moment will mark the first step on the journey of the rest of his life.

“A man arrives at the precipice,” another version of Yachty says in the video. “He simply asks a question.” As Lil Boat arrives at the sweltering office, he’s greeted by an enthusiastic woman at the front desk. After asking if this is where he gets treatment, she asks him a barrage of personal and sometimes funny questions. She even asks Boat if he’s sexually active, which he affirms despite recent IRL comments.

Overall, the video has a kind of jittery and overwhelmed feeling, as Yachty’s eyes dart between trippy decorations, sweaty patrons, and the front desk lady’s exhaustive questions. Finally, he shuts all the madness out and simply asks for them to get on with it.

Then, Yachty walks towards “Room 10” and enters a light-filled room. Afterwards, the door closes, and “Let’s Start Here” pops up on screen. In fact, the Atlanta native even teased us with a taste of the upcoming album via a music snippet.

Moreover, it sounds quite psychedelic, definitely more rock or indie-inspired, and very unlike his recent catalog. However, considering his collaborations with the likes of Tame Impala and his previous teases, this seems like an exciting new direction.

Still, what did you think of Yachty’s trippy new skit to promote his upcoming album, Let’s Start Here? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check it out for yourself down below. Also, as always, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest on Lil Yachty’s curious new album cycle.

Baby Stone Gorillas Become “Block Benders” On New Single

by

Baby Stone Gorillas returned this week with a new single, “Block Benders.” Moreover, the breezy track follows their previous single “WOP,” which carried a lot of hunger and energy. These new tracks will appear on their forthcoming mixtape, The Military, set to drop on February 10th via Park Money Records/EMPIRE.

While they rose as fresh faces in West Coast hip-hop, don’t think that their hustle just got started. Back in March of 2022, they released the 23-track BABYST5XNE GORILLAS with plenty of features and highlights. Moreover, their chemistry and penchant for smooth flows makes them a really fun and engaging listen.

On this new single, the Los Angeles collective trades bars over some piano-led harmonies. However, there’s much more melodic elements in this track to discover. In addition to the resonant piano chords, a classic G-funk wailing synth line joins the chorus. Also, there are some atmospheric vocal samples that hang comfortably in the background. Moreover, the beat is simple and succinct enough to keep listeners in the mood, but not distract them from the flows.

Even though the Gorillas are making waves of their own, they’ve received a lot of external support in the industry. For example, OVO Sound Radio played their songs often, which meant a nice little promotional boost for the group. Still, a lot of that radio play came a year ago, so expectations are set for an impactful return. Given the group’s varied talent and collection of voices, such an outcome wouldn’t be surprising.

However, what did you think of Baby Stone Gorillas’ newest single, “Block Benders”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some notable lyrics down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the track yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service and peep the music video on YouTube. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the best new music drops each week.

Quotable Lyrics

I need that Kamikaze, drop-top with suicidal doors,
I’m rapping, but I’m a fully trained assassin, I’ll up the score,
Spend it, spend again, then spin again until we clear the board,
We makin’ noise, his face seen that chopper, then he lost his voice

The Kid LAROI Shares New Single “I Can’t Go Back To The Way It Was”

by

The Kid LAROI just dropped his newest single, “I Can’t Go Back To The Way It Was.” Moreover, it follows previous tracks like “Thousand Miles,” though it’s unclear whether this most recent single will appear on his next album. Given that it’s subtitled “(Intro),” some fans believe that this single will open up the Australian artist’s next move.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 14: The Kid LAROI performs at the OBB Media’s Grand Opening of OBB Studios on January 14, 2023 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for OBB Media)

However, the 19-year-old stated that this new song is not the first single off the new album. Furthermore, his fanbase interpreted this message a couple different ways. First, there’s the possibility that “Thousand Miles” will appear on the new album, reportedly titled THE FIRST TIME. Then, some fans assumed that it just wouldn’t appear on the album at all.

Still, perhaps the most interesting theory relates to one of his unreleased demos, “Love Again,” which made rounds on social media. Given the announcement that the previously leaked song will drop next Friday (January 27), many believe that the leak was the true “first single.” Even with all these theories floating around, “The Way It Was” is enough to keep fans hungry for even more.

Moreover, this new single is quite short, clocking in at just one minute and 37 seconds. Despite its brevity, the track feels grandiose, dramatic, and like it’s heralding in something greater. After all, it is an “intro.” Over choral harmonies, a stark drum beat, and watery synth pads, LAROI floats with ease. However, lyrically, he dives into his past, his forward momentum, and what it took to get him to this point.

What did you think of The Kid LAROI’s new single, “I Can’t Go Back To The Way It Was”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and peep some standout lyrics down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the track yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service, plus peep the video on YouTube. As always, log back into HNHH for the best new music each week.

Quotable Lyrics

I broke bones and I shed some blood
And time took a few friends I love and
No matter which way I run
I can’t go back to the way it was