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Welcome to StereoVision’s top 25 hip-hop/r&b albums of 2019. The past twelve months have been filled with highly anticipated releases that exceeded expectations, debut albums that catapulted unknown artists into stardom, and experimental projects that pushed boundaries and continued to move us towards a world where music can no longer be described by genre. With so much great music constantly being released, it can be hard to keep up and sometimes exceptional albums go overlooked. That’s where we come in. Over the last two weeks on 2019, our team of writers and critic here at StereoVision have been revisiting 2019’s deep discography and making sure that our readers won’t enter the new decade having missed out on one of the best projects of the year. For each album selected in our year-end list, our team selected three standout tracks from the record which were compiled into a playlist which you can find here:
Listen along as you read and get a taste of any project you might have not tapped into in 2019. Now without further ado, the top 25 hip-hop/r&b projects of 2019:
Release Date: December 6th
Record Label: Atlantic Records
At the beginning of December, LA’s golden child released his debut album Please Excuse Me For Being Antisocial and solidified his spot as one of the top emerging emcees rapping. After dropping potentially the song of the year in “Ballin” with DJ Mustard, Roddy Ricch continued to ride his momentum into his first real album creating a project that is packed with hits without ever sacrificing cohesion or the flow. The album clearly showcases everything fans love about Roddy: His vivid story telling that instantly transports listeners to South Central Los Angeles upon pressing play (“Intro”), his ear for hit melodies and cool California vernacular (“The Box”), and his piercing singing voice that always flexes perfect pitch (“High Fashion”). The cherry on top of this excellent offering is masterfully crafted transitions that allow each song to seamlessly flow into the next making the entire album feel complete. Omitting only Baby Keem, there is no new artist I’m more excited to hear music from in 2020 than Roddy Ricch. -Spencer Lobdell
Favorite Tracks:
The Box
High Fashion (Feat. Mustard)
Bacc Seat (Feat. Ty Dolla $ign)
Release Date: May 15th
Record Label: Independent
This spring, Kota the friend dropped the incredibly bright FOTO, an instant classic for his cult following and a wholesome introduction to the New York rapper to new listeners. Throughout the album’s hour long run time, Kota uses each song as a different memory painting an authentic self portrait and helping us understand who Kota the Friend truly is. This intimate connection he is able to make with listeners is undoubtably why the rising artist has such a dedicated fan base and why his stock continues to rise everyday. On FOTO Kota accomplishes exactly what he set out to achieve. He paints a picture of his life so vivid that I felt like I was there when Kota’s mom and his aunt Marcell saw their father at the dance studio for the first time in years. Kota beautifully creates a photo album that he can go back to and reference while still keeping the quality of his music and its mainstream appeal at an all-time high. Thank you to Kota The Friend for a summer soundtrack that I predict will still be getting played in years to come. -Spencer Lobdell
Favorite Songs:
Church
Hollywood
Alkaline
Release Date: January 18th
Record Label: Carpark Records
Within the first few weeks of 2019, fans of Toro Y Moi were blessed with a new album from Chaz Bear himself. During the promotion for Outer Peace, Bear frequently mentioned how he was tired of making sad love songs, and on Outer Peace there is a clear shift from the pensive sadness of 2017’s Boo Boo into a emotional range that while being fun and optimistic, still has its moments of melancholy and doubt. At 10 tracks long, the Bay-Area native provides his fans with a diverse family of tracks, some low-fi and melodic like “New House” or “Monte Carlo” featuring Wet, others infectiously catchy and uplifting like “Freelance” and “Who Am I”. This was my favorite record of the year, and I have found myself revisiting these tracks almost constantly. The record is perfect for every occasion, so don’t be afraid to throw this on next time you get aux. You won’t regret it. -Carter Fife
Favorite Tracks:
Law of the Universe
New House
Monte Carlo (Feat. Wet)
Release Date: March 1st
Record Label: Def Jam Records
Completely A&Red by LeBron James, Rap or Go to the League is a triumphant comeback for our favorite trapper, 2 Chainz. The album is conceptual and frequently draws parallels between rap and basketball while diving deeper into the troubling idea that the two occupations are two of the only viable options for underprivileged blacks to succeed in America. Chainz uses a polished pen to do so and flexes some of his most impressive verses since his come up on this project. With help from an impressive feature list including Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, Ariana Grande, Lil Wayne, E-40, Chance the Rapper, and many others, it should come as no surprise that Rap or Go to the League secured a spot on our list. -Spencer Lobdell
Favorite Tracks:
Money In The Way
Momma I Hit a Lick (Feat. Kendrick Lamar)
I’m Not Crazy, Life Is (Feat. Chance The Rapper & Kodak Black)
Release Date: June 28th
Record Label: Interscope Records
LA producer Mustard, formerly known as DJ Mustard, gave us everything we wanted and more in his third studio album Perfect 10. Aside from many features from hot artists like Roddy Ricch, Migos, and Nipsey Hussle, Mustard killed the execution on the production side. It is chock-full of anthems and there is so much bounce throughout the whole project that it’s almost impossible to sit still while bumping the album. His #1 song off of the album, “Ballin”, is now grammy nominated for best rap/sung performance. This turned out to be both Mustard and Roddy Ricch’s first ever grammy nomination, and it was definitely well-deserved. -Colson O’Connor
Favorite Tracks:
Baguettes in the Face (Feat. NAV, Playboi Carti, & A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie)
Ballin’ (Feat. Roddy Ricch)
Perfect Ten (Feat. Nipsey Hussle)
Release Date: May 17th
Record Label: 300 Entertainment
Megan Thee Stallion is the “it girl” of 2019. This summer, Megan blew up with her mixtape Fever, released in May. Fever was the perfect project to kick off the summer, with Megan trading in her Tina Snow persona for a new one she deemed “Hot Girl Meg.” Hot Girl Meg was what she called a “college party girl,” and was the embodiment of sex appeal, independence, and a carefree attitude. On Fever, Megan showed her range in being able to rap about anything from sensual lovemaking to robbing a man of everything he is worth. Truly an inspiration for the girls. -Kaila Cherry
Favorite Tracks:
Cash Shit (Feat. DaBaby)
Best You Ever Had
Simon Says (Feat. Juicy J)
Release Date: June 21st
Record Label: Interscope Records
The return of famed rapper/producer Pi’erre Bourne has been long awaited. Since wrapping up 2018 with his collaborative record with fellow producer Cardo, many have been anxiously awaiting the fourth installment in the ‘The Life of Pi’erre’ saga. When the album finally dropped in June 2019, fans were not disappointed. TLOP 4 is a rollercoaster through contemporary hip-hop from the eyes of the man who has helped shape it. From forming the careers of artists like Young Nudy, Playboi Carti, and 6ix9ine, Pi’erre Bourne’s influence and expertise in modern hip-hop/trap synthesis cannot be understated. On his newest record Pi’erre constantly flexes his production skills and his songwriting abilities, delivering heartfelt and saccharine tracks like “Ballad” and “Racer” in one moment, and fast-paced bangers like “Routine” and “Speed Dial” the next. Each track is dense with expert engineering skills and tactics, while still being accessible enough to appeal to hip-hop fans both old and new. -Carter Fife
Favorite Tracks:
Poof
Routine
Speed Dial
Release Date: March 1st
Record Label: Interscope Records
DaBaby shows the world that short men do in fact have rights with his infectious breakthrough project Baby on Baby which was the beginning of a dominant 2019 for the Charlotte newcomer. DaBaby does not take himself too seriously in his music or his visual aesthetic. His music videos are completely kitschy and absurd. He has posed as figures such as Scarface and Suge Knight, and even filmed a video that parodied sitcom television. DaBaby’s bars are hilarious and clever. But do not get it twisted: He is not one to mess with. He is tough as hell, and, as he spits in the track “Suge,” if given any disrespect he will “... beat your ass up all in front of your partners and children.” Baby on Baby is a refreshing project that is funny, surprisingly crude, and full of dope bangers prime for all your summer antics. —Kaila Cherry
Favorite Tracks:
Suge
Pony
Carpet Burn
Release Date: January 18th
Record Label: Polydor Records
Ominous, hypnotic, and ultimately gorgeous, James Blake blends his signature downtempo sound with elements of rap and trip-hop on Assume Form. Blake’s vocal melodies soar over the album’s minimalist production, and the instrumentals show just how much he can make out of so little. Moments such as the climactic ending to “Barefoot in the Park” and James’ vocal cracks in “I’ll Come Too” are enough to conjure emotions on their own, and his candid lyrics only make these segments more potent. His arrangements are simply beautiful—even experimental at times—and the result is an extremely cohesive blend of alternative music and hip-hop. -Owen Tait
Favorite Tracks:
Mile High (Feat. Travis Scott & Metro Boomin)
Where’s the Catch (Feat. André 3000)
Don’t Miss It
Release Date: January 25th
Record Label: Interscope Records
Compton MC Boogie made some major waves in 2018 when he received a huge Eminem cosign and an actual record deal from Shady Records. In January, the young rapper returned with his Shady Records debut Everythings For Sale and it did not disappoint. Over the 40-minute run time, Boogies honestly reflects on a broken relationship, new fame, and his current day to day life. Throughout the tape Boogie proves why Pitchfork called him one of the best young emcees in the country. The tape is exceptionally cohesive and if you immerse yourself in Boogie’s world and experiences you should find that 40-minutes will feel more like 20. Boogie’s lyricism is a perfect mix of cool California dialect and witty lines that emphasize his smart and reflective themes. He gives us up-beat bangers like the JID assisted “Soho” as well as introspective reflections like “Lolsmh” or “Whose Fault”. This album is complete, thought-provoking, and one of the best releases of the year. -Spencer Lobdell
Favorite Tracks:
Silent Ride
Soho (Feat. JID)
Live 95
Release Date: April 26th
Record Label: Interscope Records
From a rap standpoint, Schoolboy Q has everything. Critical acclaim came to him with the Blank Face LP. He is a member of arguable the most respects collective in hip-hop in TDE. Yet his life outside of music has not been a walk in the park. On CrasH Talk Q looks at himself as a man and takes a step back to evaluate his own life and the people around him. This is the most relatable he has every sounded on any project. He does stay true to his hardened exterior on excellent cuts like “Numb Numb Juice”, on which he sound cut throat and motivated from the start. While this was the single released from the album, what is a more accurate representation of what makes CrasH Talk so quality is a song like “Black Folk”. Schoolboy strips away all ego and is just a man with many doubts and fears which he articulates over the ominous production in the background. This is what people want from artists when they release projects, not more of the same. This is an honest picture that Schoolboy painted for us of his life right now, he isn't a gangster or famous rapper, but a person just like you or me with doubts about himself, his carrer, and the world around him. While it may seem like a melancholy collection of music, Q finds a way to communicate these feelings in an interesting way and still come the conclusion that no person to ever walk this Earth is immune to what he, and a lot of us, are going through and that is perfectly okay. -Miles Hagan
Favorite Tracks:
Drunk (Feat. 6LACK)
Black Folk
Dangerous (Feat. Kid Cudi)
Release Date: May 24th
Record Label: Warp Records
Very few names carry the weight that Flying Lotus’s does in music. A mysterious prodigy who masterfully meanders through genres like electronic, experimental, R&B, jazz, funk, and hip-hop, Lotus returns from a long hiatus to deliver ‘Flamagra’, a 27-track record that spends approximately an hour showcasing Lotus’s musical prowess. It is impossible to sum up this album in just one paragraph, but listening to this album is an experience very akin to Alice’s trip through Wonderland. While some tracks may not last as long as one might wish, they each leave lasting impressions that resonate within long after Flying Lotus transitions to another musical ideas. Featuring help from artists like Thundercat, Toro Y Moi, Solange, David Lynch, Denzel Curry, and Anderson .Paak (just to name a few), Flamagra was certainly worth the wait. -Carter Fife
Favorite Tracks:
Post Requisite
More (Feat. Anderson .Paak)
Land of Honey (Feat. Solange)
Release Date: July 26th
Record Label: Atlantic Records
Although he is only 22 years old, YBN Cordae managed to get two Grammy nominations on his debut studio album The Lost Boy: one for best rap album and the other for best rap song. YBN Cordae seemingly came out of nowhere and took the world by storm. He released his album in July and is already touring internationally with hundreds of thousands of fans screaming his lyrics. Cordae brings an original sound and flow to the table that is undeniably smooth. When you take that and pair it up with a couple features from incredibly successful artists such as Anderson .Paak and Chance the Rapper, it’s a no-brainer he was grammy nominated twice. The best part is, he is only just getting started, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for him in 2020. -Colson O’Connor
Favorite Tracks:
RNP (Feat. Anderson .Paak)
Broke As Fuck
We Gon Make It (Feat. Meek Mill)
Release Date: July 5th
Record Label: Interscope Records
This year J. Cole and the rest of his Dreamville team set out to create a rap album unlike anything we’ve seen before. With fear of regret not working with more artists in his career, Cole decided to host a 10-day rap camp. Golden ticket-like invites were sent out to over 100 artists and producers from all over the music genre spectrum. Not only was it the diversity of the artists that was so important, but the blend of popular and low-key artists is what made the project so special. It gave smaller artists a chance to finally get some recognition for their outstanding talent. A documentary was released along with the album, and it truly painted the picture of the competition that was created among themselves. In a situation like this, you don’t get put on the album by being passive. You gotta come with the heat and you must make the most of your opportunities as only the top songs will make the cut. This created a friendly and competitive energy, and they would feed off of each other to push themselves to bring out their best work. When discussing the top rap album of 2019, Revenge of the Dreamers III must be in the conversation. -Colson O’Connor
Favorite Tracks:
Under the Sun (Feat. J. Cole, Lute, & DaBaby)
Down Bad (Feat. JID, Bas, J. Cole, EARTHGANG, & Young Nudy)
Sacrifices (Feat. EARTHGANG, J. Cole, Smino, & Saba)
Release Date: July 12th
Record Label: Domino Recording Company
Following the release of his fourth studio album Negro Swan in 2018, Blood Orange kept the up his momentuem with the drop of his mixtape Angel’s Pulse i n July. Blood Orange is an incredibly multifaceted artist who, over the course of his decades long music career has created rock tracks, funk, R&B, indie pop, and even dabbled in a bit of hip hop and rap. Angel’s Pulse is nothing short of these influences with Blood Orange traversing through different musical styles and genres effortlessly throughout the course of the project. With his wonderfully smooth and funky production style coupled with his immaculate lyricism, Angel’s Pulse was undoubtedly one of the most refreshing and artistic projects of the year. -Kaila Cherry
Favorite Tracks:
Dark & Handsome (Feat. Toro y Moi)
Benzo
Tuesday Feeling (Choose to Stay) (Feat. Tinashe)
Release Date: September 13th
Record Label: EQT Recordings
Rapper & experimental producer JPEGMAFIA follows up his captivatingly chaotic Veteran with an equally unpredictable and glitchy trip on All My Heroes Are Cornballs. Opting to incorporate sung hooks and melodic verses, JPEG’s delivery is more dynamic than ever, and the plunky synths and heavy chords he casts across the record compliment his characteristically unhinged drum patterns extremely well. Despite this instrumental shift in tone, JPEG’s lyrics are as aggressive and self-aware as ever, and he evens manages to shout his way through verses on tracks such as “PRONE!” and “Kenan Vs. Kel.” Overall, the album displays a larger range of what JPEGMAFIA is musically capable of, all while remaining compact, cryptic, and undeniably awesome. -Owen Tait
Favorite Tracks:
Kenan Vs. Kel
All My Heroes Are Cornballs
Thot Tactics
Release Date: May 31st
Record Label: Loma Vista Recordings
Coming off his most conceptual album to date (TA13OO), many wondered what direction Denzel would head next. The answer to that was obvious to Curry: he would go home. With ZUU, Denzel tastefully simplified his music showing us that sometimes the obvious answer can be the best answer with proper execution. ZUU is a short album with no skippable tracks. It’s abrasive and in-your-face without being inaccessible for less intense fans thanks to cuts like “WISH” and “SHAKE 88”. Songs like “BIRDZ”, “AUTOMATIC”, and “RICKY” provide long term Denzel fans with his unmatched flow and clever lyricism that they have grown to expect. All-in-all, Denzel made an excellent career decision and the result is a Miami masterpiece. -Spencer Lobdell
Favorite Tracks:
WISH (Feat. Kiddo Marv)
SPEEDBOAT
CAROLMART (Feat. Ice Billion Berg)
Release Date: June 28th
Record Label: RCA Records
If it’s bars you’re looking for, look no further. Backed by lush, opulent instrumentals from legendary hip-hop producer Madlib, Freddie Gibbs flows effortlessly throughout the vast majority of Bandana’s runtime. The midwestern rapper tackles his past, his success, his wrongdoings, and an array of sociopolitical issues that truly allow his lyrical & storytelling abilities to shine. And while Gibbs is certainly capable of manning an album by himself, he is more than happy to add excellent features from his A-list friends, with Pusha T even turning in Complex’s “Rap Verse of the Year” on the sixth cut “Palmolive”. The power behind Gibbs’ words and his technical abilities were enough to make the album continue to grow on me throughout the year, and standout features from Gibbs’ colleagues solidified the project’s spot on my list. -Owen Tait
Favorite Tracks:
Palmolive (Feat. Pusha T & Killer Mike)
Flat Tummy Tea
Giannis (Feat. Anderson .Paak)
Release Date: September 6th
Record Label: Interscope Records
BREAKOUT ALBUM! That is the only way that Mirrorland can and should be described. Johnny Venus and Doctur Dot put the rap game on notice that they are a force to be reckoned with and maybe the best duo in rap right now. Mirrorland sounds exactly like them, and it is incredible to see these young artists make their major label debut and not compromise. Instead they use it to get a host of guest features that simply lift the album to a completely different level. Young Thug on “Proud of U” brings an energy that perfectly matches EARTHGANG, and it seems like the three Atlanta rappers have been spitting together for years. As the album slows down the group calls upon Kehlani to deliver a seductive smooth verse on “Trippin”. Mirrorland perfectly displays the versatility of the group. The first half of the project gives audiences the energy and flows that caught the attention of people early on in their careers, but the second half where they slow their storytelling ability and emotion makes the project so great. They should get praise for getting T-Pain to deliver on of his best contributions to a song in a very long time. It all come to a fitting conclusion on “Wings”, where the boys reflect on where they came from and where they want to go. If Mirrorland is any indication, they have a very bright future. -Miles Hagan
Favorite Tracks:
Tequila (Feat. T-Pain)
Trippin (Feat. Kehlani)
Wings
Release Date: July 19th
Record Label: Independent
If you tapped into Baby Keem’s Die For My Bitch in 2019 you witnessed history. On my personal favorite album of the year, fans witnessed an artist with an unmatched ceiling come into his own and deliver his first excellent body of work. The LA artist showed significant growth since his last project highlighting his aggressive rise to inevitable stardom. The tape sacrifices unity and cohesion to instead display Keem’s wide variety of sounds and styles that he is proficient in, a great decision for an upcoming rapper looking to catch the attention of unfamiliar fans. While “ORANGE SODA” was one of the most fun hip-hop moments of the year and introduced the world to Keem’s sharp flow and one-of-a-kind vocabulary, some fans might not have realized that Keem’s entire album is equally as captivating and entertaining. All the claims I made throughout 2019 saying that Keem was a superstar were confirmed in November when I went to his show in Los Angeles and was treated with one of the most electric live performances I’ve ever been to. There’s a reason that A$AP Rocky and Kendrick Lamar were spotted at his shows on the Die For My Bitch tour. There’s a reason he was photographed having lunch with Jay-Z this past winter. There’s a reason that Drake called Die For My Bitch the best album of 2019 along with Young Thug’s So Much Fun. On the second track “Honest” the LA artist raps “Baby Keem, shit I’m chosen” and after one listen through Die For My Bitch, it’s hard not to believe him. -Spencer Lobdell
Favorite Tracks:
ROCKSTAR P
ORANGE SODA
APOLOGIZE
Release Date: March 1st
Record Label: Columbia Records
Solange Knowles’ radical album When I Get Home is easily the most artistic project of the year. When I Get Home is not easy to explain, to start, what exactly is the genre? Is it hip-hop, as suggested by features with prominent rap artists Playboi Carti and Gucci Mane? Is it soul? R&B? Further, what is the “home” that Solange is referring to? Is this place literal or figurative? Solange manages to answer all of these questions throughout the course of the album. When I Get Home is an iconographic representation of the black experience in the most celebratory sense. Solange embraces her black womanhood and embraces Houston, Texas. The project radiates warmth and familiarity. It creates a home within itself. When I Get Home is wholly inviting, sonically stunning, and lyrically beautiful album that I cannot help but come back to when I am in need of empathy, of comfort, of a place to call home. -Kaila Cherry
Favorite Tracks:
Almeda (Feat. Playboi Carti)
My Skin My Logo (Feat. Gucci Mane)
Binz
Release Date: December 13th
Record Label: RCA Records
It has been over three long years since the Montreal prodigy Kaytranada released his debut LP 99.9%, a funk-laden electronic record complete with over a dozen guest appearances (including names like hip-hop favorite Anderson .Paak and jazz legend Karriem Riggins). BUBBA, Kaytranada’s recently released sophomore album, is another example of masterful and intentional dance/hip-hop/funk synthesis. On tracks like “10%” with Kali Uchis and “Grey Area” with Mick Jenkins, fans are treated to a signature style of electronic that urges the listeners to lean forward, and lay back simultaneously. Not every track is played safety to Kaytranada’s strong suits however, as certain dancehall-inspired tracks like “Go Dj” and “Vex Oh” show signs of risk-taking that pays off as the record becomes more familiar. It was a long wait for BUBBA, but after hearing Kaytranada collaborate with industry heavyweights like Tinashe and Pharrell, it is safe to say that fans will be satiated for a while. -Carter Fife
Favorite Tracks:
2 The Music (Feat. Iman Omari)
Puff Lah
The Worst In Me (Feat. Tinashe)
Release Date: April 11th
Record Label: Interscope Records
Anderson .Paak’s Ventura showcases everything we love about the soulful California native. Said to be a counter-part to his prior album Oxnard which was released five months earlier, Ventura showcases Paak in his ideal environment being authentically himself. It is musically unmatched and conceptually rich. It’s both sexy (“Jet Black”) and politically charged (“King James”) but always in moderation to keep it tasteful. Ventura is an album that proved it’s enduring replay value by getting better everyday since it’s release in early April. With Ventura Anderson truly created timeless music as I foresee songs like “Make It Better” and “What Can We Do” staying in my musical rotation until I can no longer hear. Well we all would like to be, no one is quite as smooth as .Paak. -Spencer Lobdell
Favorite Tracks:
Make It Better (Feat. Smokey Robinson)
King James
Jet Black (Feat. Brandy)
Release Date: August 16th
Record Label: Atlantic Records
Does Young Thug Speak English? I think he answered that question with 2018’s Slime Language. The album title speaks for itself. So much of what makes So Much Fun great can really be seen through the way Thugger has talked about the project both before and after the release. There is no concept, no real goal or take-away, rather it is just Thug having a good time making music that will make his fans have a good time listening to. What we received was once again a version of the Atlanta rapper we were not accustomed to. “What’s the Move” and “Hop off a Jet” have a crisp beautiful island sound of production that captures the listener's ear instantly. The features across the board do not disappoint and help carry the project. So Much Fun also features what may be one of the most popular songs this year with “Hot” and its remix. Thug’s protegé, Gunna, shines on this effort and his verse on “Diamonds”on the deluxe version of the album needs to be talked about. What can really be taken away from this album is how it fits into the landscape of 2019. Hip-Hop has lost a lot of great talent recently because of the drug culture that artists like Young Thug and Future were a large part of creating. Thugger seems to be moving away from those narratives, or at least doing his best. There is a way to be this same well respects talented performer without the use of such detrimental lyrics, and its seems like Thug may have caught on to that. So Much Fun is a breath of fresh air, with an artist at the peak of his powers creating a vibe of positivity. -Miles Hagan
Favorite Tracks:
Hot (Feat. Gunna)
What’s The Move (Feat. Lil Uzi Vert)
Big Tipper (Feat. Lil Keed)
Release Date: May 17th
Record Label: Columbia Records
In a time where it feels like so many creatives are doing things for popularity or to be the next big meme, an artist who goes against expectations to make a beautiful piece of art that is entirely authentic is invaluable. This is exactly the feat Tyler, the Creator accomplishes on IGOR. This project comes on the heels of his most successful mainstream record yet, Flower Boy. Expectations were high and everyone was wondering what was next for the 28 year old rapper. If Flower Boy was his most honest album, on IGOR he tells the best story. The entire album plays like a movie not navigated by lyrics, but by stellar productions. Songs like “I THINK” and “RUNNING OUT OF TIME” are so incredible because they capture the feeling of falling for someone despite your best efforts almost entirely through the way the track sounds. Throughout, it seems Tyler’s character IGOR is trying to find out what is next the same way we all are and it is beautiful. Tyler still has tracks where he flexes his skills as an emcee. “A BOY IS A GUN” has bars from front to back, but he never overstays his welcome. Gone are the days of him trying to shock the world with every bar that comes out his mouth, now he is focused and precise with everything that he touches. That is what makes IGOR album of the year. There is nothing else that came out this year that sounds anything like it, and Tyler is an artist that is still hungry to get better, and that deserves to be celebrated. -Miles Hagan
Favorite Tracks:
EARFQUAKE
A BOY IS A GUN*
ARE WE STILL FRIENDS?
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Atlanta rappers Johnny Venus and Doctur Dot make up the genius rap anomaly and undeniable oddity that is EARTHGANG. The two emcees beautifully contrast each other, frequently drawing comparisons to Outkast due to Johnny Venus’s sharing Andre 3000’s over the top energy and style while Doctur Dot and Big Boy are known to provide insanely abnormal tracks with a more conventional style of rapping. With an established fan base and the strength of J. Cole’s label, Dreamville, the stars aligned for EARTHGANG in 2019 as they dropped their major-label debut Mirrorland leaving fans to decide if it would live up to the lofty expectations that the two creatives bestowed upon themselves through the steady release of high-quality music.
Photo via Colors Studio Twitter
The duo has been slowly gaining traction since their debut EP The Better Party came out in 2010 while the two rap fanatics were attending Hampton University in Virginia, the southern hub where the group met fellow Dreamville signee J.I.D who was attending on a football scholarship. EARTHGANG went on to release a handful of mixtapes and singles leading up to their debut album Shallow Graves For Toys in 2014. Their growing buzz was greatly expedited in 2017 when the duo announced that they would be singing to J. Cole’s label, Dreamville. With an established fan base and the backing of Dreamville, the stars aligned for EARTHGANG in 2019 as they dropped their major-label debut Mirrorland leaving fans to decide if it would live up to the lofty expectations that the two creatives bestowed upon themselves through the steady release of high-quality music.
On September 6th, EARTHGANG released Mirrorland through Dreamville/Interscope Records. The album runs for just under an hour and boasts features from Young Thug, T-Pain, Kehlani, and others.
The album opens in epic fashion with the diverse and intriguing “LaLa Challenge”. The track slowly builds up throughout the entire song, bouncing back and forth between different instrumentation, until it finally climaxes in a loud and pacing outro. While the song certainly won’t get placed on any large playlists due to its deviation in energy and tempo, it is a perfect intro that introduces potential new listeners to the wide array of sounds and styles that EARTHGANG is capable of.
The second track “UP” is one of three pre-released singles on the album and is easily one of the best cuts on the album. Johnny Venus steals the show on this track delivering an absolutely captivating vocal performance frequently using fascinating inflections to keep listeners hooked for the entirety of the song. With this being said, I couldn’t help but be disappointed by the studio version of “UP” due to how fantastic their “A COLORS SHOW” version of the track is. While the album version is great, it just doesn’t contain the same high-octane energy that the two delivered on “A COLORS SHOW” over a year ago.
The transition between “UP” and the third track “Top Down” is excellent and gracefully leads us into potentially the best trap banger on the project. The hard-hitting yet minimalistic instrumental mixed with EARTHGANG’s tribal sounding background vocals creates a perfect soundscape for Doctur Dot’s best verse on the album where he raps about a conversation with an old flame and how it affected him.
The fifth track “Proud Of U” features Young Thug and is undoubtedly one of my favorite rap songs of 2019. The heartfelt cut showcases the three Atlanta MCs profess their gratitude for the women in their lives that make everything work. The song is incredibly fun and Doctur Dot’s third verse breakdown is maybe my favorite moment on the album. The track was released as a single back in February and despite seven months of frequent listening I have yet to get tired of this song.
“Blue Moon” is the tenth song on the album and my favorite relaxed bop on the impressive tape. The instrumental features bright horns that give this chill cut a bluesy feel that fits perfectly under the rappers's precise bars about hustling and making their dreams come true.
While Mirrorland was highly anticipated by fans and critics alike, it certainly did not disappoint. Johnny Venus and Doctur Dot both rap exceptionally while throughout the entirety of the project, weaving in stories and references that took me many listens to fully catch. The production on this album is awesome and perfectly fits the duo's fun and unpredictable style.
While all those elements are great, the best part about Mirrorland is its track diversity. Each track is unique to the point where a 55-minute album feels more like 30. This tape contains bangers for parties (“Proud Of U”), mellow songs for smoke seshes (“Blue Moon”), slow jams for time in the bedroom (“Trippin”), and a song for just about any other occasion you can think of.
With the release of Mirrorland it’s undeniable that EARTHGANG leveled up and while some long-term fans might disagree in terms of the quality of music, in terms of public reception and sales it’s not up for debate. The question is no longer if EARTHGANG will stick but rather what the dynamic duo will do next.
Top Down
Proud Of U (Feat. Young Thug)
Blue Moon
Rating: 8
Listen to Mirrorland here:
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By Miles Hagan
Well, it finally happened. When Revenge of the Dreamers III was initially announced it seemed too good to be true. Invites to the session were sent out to the biggest names in pop culture like golden tickets. This was a different set up than the first two Revenge of the Dreamers tape. The two previous efforts featured only Dreamville signed artists and the publicity surrounding them was almost nonexistent. Since then, the label has expanded and added some top tier talent in J.I.D, EARTHGANG, and Ari Lennox. Alongside the album, a documentary on the creation of the project was released on YouTube. This captured just how incredible the collaboration between artists and producers was during the 10 day period in which Revenge of the Dreamers III was created.
The album starts off absolutely on fire. “Under the Sun” is a perfect example of what everyone was expecting going into Revenge of the Dreamers III. The beat features a beautiful soul sample, and Cole absolutely eats his verse. The beat bangs in the background as Lute and DaBaby deliver killer verses and truly set the tone for what this collaboration is about to be. After this, we get two songs that were singles before the album officially released. Dreamville really flexes their muscles as a group on “Down Bad” with excellent verses from Bas, J.I.D., J. Cole, and EARTHGANG. Then it goes into “LamboTruck” which has actually turned into a meme since the release of the documentary, because of Cole’s reaction. This reaction makes a lot more sense after hearing the track where REASON and Cozz sound absolutely murderous and rap about robbing their respective label heads. These first three songs really give most rap fans all they could want out of a Dreamville project, and after this is where the project beings to show how diverse it is.
Dreamville Presents: Revenge (Documentary) This is the official documentary chronicling the Revenge of the Dreamers III sessions in January 2019 at Tree Sound Studios in Atlanta, Georgia.
This is an album that also doesn't take itself too seriously. From the most hardcore hip-hop fan to more casual listeners, everyone was this project. Even with those lofty expectations Revenge of the Dreamers III still manages to show just how much fun these artists had making the album. A song like “1993” functions almost like a skit or interlude. It would be difficult for anyone not to crack a smile while hearing Buddy clown J. Cole about taking too long to pass the blunt. Artists also weren’t afraid to get a little experimental on tracks like “Don’t Hit Me Right Now”. J.I.D is known to be able to keep up or out-rap anyone on any given song, yet on this cut, he choose to go with more of a pop sound and it works well.
Cole said that the main goal of this project was to not only show just how talented the top tier of Dreamville is, but to also highlight some lesser-known artists who deserve some shine. Buddy was seen by a lot of people as the MVP in the making of this because of just how many verses he was laying down over the 10 day recording period and it shows on the album. Others like Guapdad 4000, Drezzy, and Baby Rose used this as a chance to make a name for themselves and showed out when they got the chance. Ari Lennox who is also a Dreamville artist also brought and amazing R&B feel to the project whenever she was featured on a track. She makes a song that cant be described as anything more than a vibe with “Self Love”.
On the flip side established artists did what they were supposed to do and even though not every song completely hits the mark the ones that reach their full potential are some of the best musical moments of this year. A prime example of this is the closing song on the “Sacrifices”. This leaves an otherwise lighthearted album off in a reflective way. Everyone from EARTHGANG and J. Cole to Smino and Saba had to give something up to where they are now. Not many artists get a chance to be a part of something as monumental as this and everyone featured on this song seems not only well aware of that fact, but thankful that they got to participate at all.
It seemed nearly impossible for Revenge of the Dreamers III be able to live up to the expectations set when it was first announced. The label was very smart to be patient in releasing rather than putting it out in the midst of all the hype. Overall the project is very enjoyable throughout and there is not a single bad song. That being said, not every track is without flaws and the album does have moments where it can begin to drag just by virtue of it being over an hour long. What saves it is that at every moment just when it seems like it may lose your attention a song pops up at immediately grabs you back in. Who knows when we will next get a cohesive project with this many talented people involved, so until then we should all be glad Dreamville came through with this latest effort.
Under the Sun
LamboTruck
Sacrifices
Rating: 8.5
Listen to Revenge of the Dreamers III here:
Revenge Of The Dreamers III, an album by Dreamville, J. Cole on Spotify
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Welcome to “Songs of the Week” a weekly segment where I highlight three of the best new songs released the week prior. To stay up to date on all new music, follow our playlist “Hot 30” on Apple Music and Spotify. “Hot 30” is updated daily to always include the freshest new music. Always 30 songs, hottest always at the top. Stream it here:
A playlist updated weekly by team members at StereoVision with the hottest new rap and hip-hop music. Always 30 songs with the hottest tracks at the top.
Down Bad (feat. JID, Bas, J. Cole, EARTHGANG & Young Nudy), a song by Dreamville, JID, Bas, J. Cole, EARTHGANG, Young Nudy on Spotify
J. Cole’s powerhouse label “Dreamville” has been teasing their third collaborative album “Revenge of the Dreamers III” for awhile now and last Wednesday we finally got a taste of what they’ve been working on. While both songs on their EP “1-800-88-DREAM” were very good, “Down Bad” is already one of my favorite songs of the year. JID, Bas, J. Cole, and Johnny Venus, all deliver excellent verses to the point where it’s hard to pick a favorite. If I had to pick, I think JID’s verse barley edges out the other three but it is very close. This song is so fun and succeeded in adding to the excitement for the forthcoming album.
“I had to tighten the fuck up, but I’m here for the crown
Board of Education vs. Brown
I was bored of education, left the town
Fuck a résumé and fuck a cap and gown
Fuck a background check back ‘round when I get the check
Nigga, that’s now”
Time, a song by Free Nationals, Mac Miller, Kali Uchis on Spotify
Ten months after his passing, Mac Miller’s first posthumous verse has arrived, and it’s nothing short of perfect. The track is titled “Time” and released by Anderson .Paak’s band, Free Nationals. Kali Uchis is called upon for the first verse and hook and sounds angelic over the groovy soundscape provided by Free Nationals. One minute and thirty seconds into the record, Mac smoothly makes his presence known and spits a reflective verse about the benefits of letting time run its course in a relationship. He utilizes the same flow and style that was very present in Swimming allowing every introspective bar to resonate. We miss you Mac, rest in peace.
“Well, I don’t trip, but I slip, I fall
Sleep all day, maybe miss your calls
Like I been missing you
Still, I continue, tied up and tripping up
I’m making the wrong decisions and you sick of it all”
Money In The Grave (Drake ft. Rick Ross), a song by Drake, Rick Ross on Spotify
Thursday night the Toronto Raptors won their first ever NBA championship meaning that their biggest fan and spokesperson, Drake, would be dropping new music in celebration before the weekend was over. On Friday night, the Canadian rapper dropped a two song EP titled The Best In The World Pack. The second track “Money In The Grave” features Rick Ross, reuniting the dynamic “I’m On One/Lord Knows” duo. While the song has nothing to do with the Raptors, it’s a classic Drake freebie which always seem to go especially hard. The song features the two decorated emcees rapping about their success and how people will continue to try and feed off their image even after death.
“When I die, put my money in the grave
I really gotta put a couple niggas in they place
Really just lapped every nigga in the race
I really might tat “Realest Nigga” on my face”
Thanks for reading, check back in next week for three new songs of the week. Make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter to get notified when we post:
By Miles Hagan
Yahdi has been talked about since November. Kanye has pushed back the release date multiple times for many reasons in typical Kanye fashion. All of that being said, the music world is still waiting on what is coming next from Yeezy. Last year he released a solo album (Ye) and joint project with Kid Cudi (Kids See Ghosts), both which were well received by the general public. He closed the year with some pretty average performances with some artists like Lil Pump (“I Love It”) and 6ix9ine (“MAMA KANGA”). Kanye has given us a lot of interesting features, singles, and albums over the years, and his opinions will always be questionable, but one thing is for sure; Kanye will always have the public’s interest.
Awaken My Love was a huge step in Gambino’s career. He had already established himself as a force to be reckoned with on Because the Internet, but fans were unsure of what the multitalented rapper would do next. He proceed to launch one of the most critically acclaimed TV shows in recent memory, Atlanta, and show his impressive skills as an actor in many major roles in films. Aside from these two things, he began to change his music style from mainly rap to a mix of R&B and Neo Soul. He released two solid singles at the end of the summer in “Feels Like Summer” and “Summertime Magic”. This was more of the sound from Awaken My Love rather than his other huge single of 2018, “This is America,” which showcased him going back to his roots of rapping. Though Childish has not directly said he's putting out a project his fairly steady output of content hints that he's still in the studio, so fans should be look forward to whatever he has planned for 2019.
The young TDE rapper showed a ton of promise on his last record The Sun’s Tirade. This came after the scare of being dropped due to the break he took from music after his debut album Cilvia Demo. Ever since, the rapper has seemed focused and poised for another, even bigger release for his next project. Rashad has hinted at releasing new content for some time now especially on his social media. Aside from the occasional feature he hasn't put out anything to really give fans an idea of what new sounds he's working with. That being said his potential is undeniable especially with the team backing him in his label.
This is a project that has a lot of conflicting information regarding the release from the two main parties in A$AP Rocky and Tyler, the Creator. Rocky made it seem like project was well underway and fans should be expecting a release in the near future. Tyler almost immediately dismissed these remarks via Twitter saying that the album wasn't even full flesh out year and was still in the idea stages. The only real information that the public knows is that the two friends have been working together for a while now sporadically on music. “Potato Salad” came out in July of 2018 and had fans excited for more content from the two excellent rappers.
The young TDE rapper showed a ton of promise on his last record The Sun’s Tirade. This came after the scare of being dropped due to the break he took from music after his debut album Cilvia Demo. Ever since, the rapper has seemed focused and poised for another, even bigger release for his next project. Rashad has hinted at releasing new content for some time now especially on his social media. Aside from the occasional feature he hasn't put out anything to really give fans an idea of what new sounds he's working with. That being said his potential is undeniable especially with the team backing him in his label.
Vampire Weekend has been quite for a number of years now after they took a break from making music after their 2016 Modern Vampires tour. Key member Rostam Batmanglij was rumored to be leaving the band, though it has since been confirmed he is still a partial collaborator on their upcoming record. Talk of a new album was on and off till lead singer Ezra Koenig officially announced via his instagram that the group would be releasing a new album titled Father of the Bride September 6th of 2019. Leading up to the project there will be two new songs per month till its official release. The first two singles “Harmony Hall” and “2021” have received high remarks from fans and critics alike. They feature great vocals per usual from Koenig, and feature beautiful instrumentation and captivating lyrics throughout. From all that we have seen Vampire Weekend seems just as sharp as ever and prepared to make their way back into the forefront of music.
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