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 includes releases from two rising stars and one of the most hardened rap vets in the game, resulting in a varied mix of tracks to choose from. Philly native PnB Rock returns to the scene with a double-disc effort titled TrapStar Turnt PopStar. This is the crooner’s sophomore studio album and first full-length release of the year. After switching her moniker from Asian Doll to Asian Da Brat, the 1017 Eskimo Records first lady completes her re-brand with her UNFUCCWITABLE mixtape, which finds her continuing to set herself a part from the pack. Rounding out this week’s lineup is Styles P, who continues to defy the hands of time with S.P. The GOAT: Ghost of All Time, the eleventh solo studio album of his career and one that doesn’t show any signs of slippage from The LOX member.
With all three releases getting airplay and dominating the conversation, REVOLT shares some 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.
PnB Rock: TrapStar Turnt PopStar
“I Like Girls”
The first single released from PnB Rock’s new project, this banger finds the vocalist cascading over production by Hitmaka. Hooking up with fellow Pennsylvanian Lil Skies, PnB Rock and his costar profess their affinity for the opposite sex on what is one of the album’s more infectious ditties.
“Put You On”
30 Roc, Abaz, and X-Plosive join forces on the production tip, as the trio turn in this plush instrumental for one of the premier collaborative efforts on the tracklist. Featuring a guest appearance from A Boogie wit da Hoodie, both stars belt out sweet nothings while atoning for their past shortcomings on this enticing rap ballad.
“ABCD (Friend Zone)”
PnB Rock makes his disinterest for keeping his relationships with the ladies platonic known on this breezy offering. Styling over production from Musik MajorX, Tariq Beats, and Hitmaka; the former trapper keeps his intentions transparent, while displaying his persuasive charm on one of the high points on the Philadelphian’s latest release.
Styles P: S.P. The GOAT: Ghost of All Time
“So Much To Say”
Thoughts get spilled on this stirring composition from the Yonkers hard-rock’s latest assemblage of bars. Running roughshod over a frantic backdrop constructed by Dayzel The Machine, Styles P is grisly as ever, giving the middle finger to his critics and naysayers in defiant fashion.
“Give N Take”
A moment of introspect on The Ghost’s new long player comes courtesy of this salvo, which finds the hard-boiled lyricist musing on the blessings and sacrifices that come with life. Produced by W, who delivers a jazzy soundscape for Styles to emote over, this tune channels the best of what we’ve come to expect from the tenured vet.
“The Professionals”
Two of New York’s most fierce rhyme pugilists connect on this bruising collaborative effort from Styles P’s current collection of testimonials. Produced by Trip SP 1200 — and with a guest appearance from M.O.P. member Lil Fame — the couplets volleyed on this tune are top-shelf variety and captures its host at the height of his powers.
Asian Da Brat: UNFUCCWITABLE
“Eskimo Flow”
Heavy artillery gets toted on this outing from Asian Da Brat, who gives fair warning about her infantry of sharp-shooters over piano keys and rollicking 808s. Produced by Tasha Catour, this tune showcases the Texan’s more sinister side, as she makes no apologies for her trigger-happy tendencies.
“Double Burger”
Asian Da Brat focuses her attention on the dividends on this spirited selection from the rapstress’ latest effort. Unloading a barrage of brash couplets atop snares, kicks and hi-hats provided by Take A Daytrip, Da Brat’s rapid fire flow enveloped the track like a glove, as she flaunts her sex appeal while scoffing at the opposition.
“SHHHH”
Bankroll Got It helms the boards on this bouncy cut, which finds Asian Da Brat boasting about the trappings of her lifestyle and threatening bodily harm. Her lyrical performance on this track is impressive. However, the song’s appeal can also be credited to its hook, which she delivers with unbridled passion.
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