Now N' Laters I J. Cole & Dreamville, Jaden Smith and Westside Gunn

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 new material includes a compilation from one of rap’s most acclaimed lyricists, a project from rap royalty and the latest release from one of the overlords of street rap. J. Cole and his [Dreamville Records] team return with the third installment of their Revenge of the Dreamers series, which looks to reinforce the crew’s standing among the elite factions in hip hop today. Jaden Smith adds to the proceedings with his latest solo outing, which showcases his continued evolution and growth. And last, but not least, Westside Gunn holding it down with the latest release from Griselda’s franchise.

With all three releases getting airplay and dominating the conversation, REVOLT shares our critics’ picks for the three songs from each album 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.

Dreamville: Revenge of the Dreamers III

“Down Bad”

J.I.D leads this charge on this rambunctious number, which includes stanzas from J. Cole, Bas, Johnny Venus, and Young Nudy. Produced by Pluss, this captivating selection captures the dreamers doling out dexterous flows and lyrical acrobatics that keeps the listener on their toes.

“Don’t Hit Me Right Now”

Bas and Cozz represent for the home team on this enticing inclusion on Revenge of the Dreamers III, which finds the pair joining forces with Yung Baby Tate, Guapdad 4000 & Buddy. Produced by Galimatias, this mellow selection serves as one of the highlights from the Dreamvillians’ latest long player and is primed for continuous spins.

“Self Love”

Sensei Beuno provides the backdrop for this silky groove from the Dreamville camp. Ari Lennox and Baby Rose lend their vocal prowess, while Bas commandeers the track in effortless fashion, resulting in one of the stronger offerings from Revenge of the Dreamers III.

Jaden Smith: ERYS

“I”

Lido and Jasper Harris create the ambiance for this lively number from Jaden Smiths’s latest collection. Exuding the precision of a supreme soloist, Smith continues to evolve from an unlikely phenom to a certified rhyme animal.

“Noize”

Tyler, the Creator rides shotgun on this intense addition to Jaden Smith’s latest collaborative effort. Produced by Keyz and Keanu, the boardsmen craft a bombastic composition for the carefree spitters to run roughshod over.

“i-drip-or-is”

Jaden Smith ratchets up the energy with this salvo from the rhymer’s latest body of work. Produced by Yuki, Keyz, and Keanu; twinkling xylophones and thunderous bass compliment Smith’s performance, which ranks among the best from his latest long player.

Westside Gunn: Flygod Is an Awesome God

“Sensational Sherri”

Westside Gunn commences the proceedings with this terse offering from the Buffalo rhyme slinger’s latest solo offering. Musing over tumbling percussion, the Flygod is joined by Benny The Butcher, who contributes a string of couplets that aim straight for the jugular.

“Bautista”

Grisly bars are delivered on this standout selection from Gunn, who does his bidding over a brooding backdrop that matches the intensity of his rhyme spill. Powered by thumping kicks and snares, the instrumental coaxes a masterful outing from one of the finest wordsmith’s out of New York.

“Pete Sake”

A vocal sample gets reconfigured from Westside Gunn’s latest addition to his catalog. Reminiscing on his past criminal records, the Shady Records signee gets added reinforcement from his Griselda faction, who partake in a session of verbal jousting that will keep your rewind buttons on standby.

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