With so many new rap albums, mixtapes, EPs and songs dropping every week; knowing which ones are worth your time can be a challenge. But no worries, we’ll help smooth out the process with “Now N’ Laters,” a column that highlights the hottest new releases of the week and the songs you’ll want to listen to now — and later.
This week’s slate of releases are from a few of the brightest young stars in rap, each of whom unveiled quality projects for our listening pleasure. Headlining our roundup is New York City’s own King Combs, who dropped his Cyncerely, C3 EP. Featuring appearances from some of the biggest stars in hip hop and R&B, Cyncerely, C3 is a focused collection with various moods, but effectively carries on the Combs tradition with lyrical style and swagger. Bay Area beauty Saweetie touches down with ICY, the rapper’s latest project, which should only raise her popularity amongst fans. Last, but certainly not least, Harlem native Melii attempts to build on to her momentum with her new project phAses, her first release of 2019 and one that puts the gamut of her artistry on full display.
With all three releases getting airplay and dominating the conversation, REVOLT shares our critics’ picks for the three songs from each project that stand a cut above the rest and should be in your heavy rotation now — and later. Be sure to let us know what your favorites are.
King Combs: Cyncerely, C3
“Naughty”
Every bad boy needs a good girl who’s willing to get naughty from time to time, which King Combs attests on this syrupy selection from the rising star’s latest collection. Produced by Swift D and Hitmaka — and with guest vocals from R&B crooner Jeremih — this track continues King Combs’ winning streak of collaborative efforts and gets the Now N’ Laters nod of approval.
“Good To Ya”
“I done been around the world, but no city like mine,” King Combs boasts on this mid-tempo offering from his new EP. Produced by Hunga, with a clutch vocal performance from Ty Dolla $ign, this track showcases the star’s suave demeanor and slick mouthpiece, as he whispers sweet nothings directed at the ladies.
“Basement”
Producer E White cooks up a string-heavy backdrop for this close-out cut from King Combs’ new EP, which finds him calling in a few of his CYN cohorts. Featuring Trey Livin, Kash Prez, and Bay Swagg, this high-powered posse-cut is among the EP’s more intense offerings and puts the spotlight not only on King Combs’, but his own talent stable.
Saweetie: ICY
“Trick”
Saweetie bursts out the gate with this rollicking intro from the Cali rep’s major label debut, which finds her finessing potential suitors for their revenue and assets. Produced by Murda Beatz, this track casts Saweetie as a bossed up man-eater with her mind on her money and no tolerance for a broke boy.
“Tip Toes”
“Let me tell you ’bout this check from the west coast,” Quavo raps on this collab with his boo, on which the pair showers one another with compliments. Produced by Buddah Bless, who crafts a jittery, video-game inspired instrumental, this selection has the makings of an instant fan-favorite and captures the two love-birds at the top of their respective games.
“Emotional”
Saweetie and Quavo collide again on this sultry standout, as the Bay Area native displays hints of vulnerability over production by NOVA WAVE. Belting out melodies in between spouting off bars, Saweetie delivers another song that only adds to the replay-value of her latest release.
Melii: phAses
1. Way Out
Melii draws listeners into her world with this pulsating number from the double-threat’s debut project. Produced by Felix Leone, this opening salvo finds the New Yorker reminiscing on her humble beginnings in transparent fashion.
2. Slow For Me
To mark her induction into the One Umbrella family, Melii teams up with Tory Lanez for this sensuous duet. Crooning over production by Beatells, Melii and Tory display a chemistry that belies their short tenure together, but is sure to lead to additional collaborations between the two talents in the future.
3. Mister
Producers G. Ry and McClenney construct the backdrop for this sensuous banger, which puts Melii’s vocal abilities front and center. Looking to take a cruise with a potential lover and disarm of his heart, the newcomer puts forth one of the stronger compositions on her debut with this steamy offering.
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