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 includes releases from a few of the brightest young stars in rap. Atlanta rapper Rich the Kid’s had a whirlwind of a year with various disputes and physical altercations keeping his name in the headlines. Rich looks to put the focus back on the music with The World Is Yours 2, his latest collection of tracks. Canadian artist NAV comes through with Bad Habits, the rapper/producer’s second studio album. Rounding out this week’s list of new music, you need to hear is Yhung T.O.’s On My Momma 2, which looks to bolster the SOB X RBE member’s popularity even further.
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.
Rich the Kid: The World Is Yours 2
“Fall Threw”
“I got some twins, identical,” Rich the Kid boasts on this turnt up offering. Joined by Young Thug and Gunna, Rich the Kid glides over production from Nils and Wheezy for one of the premier salvos on his latest collection.
“Whoa”
Rich the Kid delivers a change of pace with this standout number, as the Atlanta native gets in touch with his romantic side. Produced by Rex Kudo and Sevn Thomas, and featuring appearances by Miguel and Ty Dolla $ign, this sensuous selection packs enough replay value to infiltrate your daily rotation.
“Like Mike”
Nard & B and Xl provide the soundscape for this boisterous collaboration. Featuring guest spots from Jay Critch and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, this selection is one of the superior tracks on the album and dope enough to get Calvin Cambridge on his A-Game.
NAV: Bad Habits
“To My Grave”
NAV wastes no time getting into his flow with this introductory track, which finds the spitter vowing to keep the loyalty and greenbacks coming in. Produced by OZ and Pro Logic, this number helps set the tone for NAV’s latest solo set.
“Tap”
Westen Weiss and London on da Track helm production duties on this high-powered tune that finds NAV trading bars with Meek Mill. On a tracklist loaded with fire-power, this meeting of the minds is among the more memorable moments that will instantly pique fans’ interest
“Price On My Head”
The money is on NAV’s mind on this infectious tune that boasts a backdrop crafted by Derek Wise and Alexonweed. Fellow Canadian star The Weeknd serenades listeners while addressing past disputes.
Yhung T.O.: On My Momma 2
“Intro”
Yhung T.O. wastes no time getting the ball rolling with this introductory cut. It finds the SOB X RBE member baring his soul over a melodic backdrop. Navigating over solemn piano keys and relentless 808s, T.O. flexes his vocal abilities on this outing. This results in a great first impression.
“Plane With Me”
Yhung T.O. courts a potential lover on this catchy composition from the neophyte’s new album. This song showcases his harmonious vocals. “Girl, you should’ve been on this plane with me,” T.O. croons, as the rising talent continues his winning streak with another infectious ditty.
“The Wave”
“You know I keep that stick on me like it’s glued to my hip,” Yhung T.O. raps on this highlight from the west coaster’s latest long player. He’s heard finessing over 808 drums and keys. Littering the track with boisterous bars, T.O. turns in a tune that has all of the trademarks of a vintage Cali jam, but with a modern-day twist.
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