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 lineup includes a mix of releases from tenured vets and rising talent. Rick Ross emerges from hibernation with Port of Miami II, his long-awaited sequel to his debut album and one that finds the boss looking to extend his streak of quality long players. As Blueface attempts to prove “Thotiana” was just the calm before the storm, the Cash Money Records signee delivers his new EP Dirtbag, which finds the west coaster staying true to his roots and playing to his strengths. And last, but not least, Trippie Redd returns with ! (yes, it’s literally an exclamation point), the follow-up to his debut and a project that finds him trying to avoid the sophomore jinx.
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.
Rick Ross: Port of Miami II
“Act A Fool”
Rick Ross is joined by Wale on this warning shot, which finds the MMG members basking in their own glory. Produced by Beat Billionaire, this club banger has the potential become another anthem in Rozay’s discography and is worthy of continuous spins.
“Big Tyme”
Just Blaze delivers a heat-rock with this bruising instrumental from Rozay’s latest effort. It captures the MMG head honcho in a boastful mood. Featuring a guest spot from Swizz Beatz, this number is primed to assault speakers for the foreseeable future and finds Ross at the top of his game.
“Rich Nigga Lifestyle”
Nipsey Hussle makes a posthumous appearance alongside Rick Ross on this lavish offering. On it, the pair trade off verses over a riveting backdrop. Produced by Cardiak, this selection is bolstered by guest vocals by Teyana Taylor, and ranks among the most captivating moments on the album.
Blueface: Dirt Bag
“Bussdown”
Pricey wrist-wear is the topic at hand on this slow-rolling selection from Blueface’s latest EP. Produced by Scum Beatz and featuring a guest verse from Offset, this cut juxtaposes Blueface’s humble beginnings with the trappings of his rock star lifestyle.
“Disrespectful”
FBeat Productions supplies the sonics on this aggressive salvo, which finds Blueface displaying a disregard for manners or authority figures. Sauntering over haunting piano keys, the Cali native turns in yet another enticing offering to add to his collection of standouts.
“Gang”
Two of the west coast’s finest connect on this tune that Blueface teams up with Mozzy on, and the pair rep their respective sets. Produced by Mike Crook, this slapper is powered by a menacing soundscape, over which the two artists exude a murderous aura, resulting in a hard-boiled number.
Trippie Redd: !
They Afraid of You”
ChopsquadDJ provides the beat for this collaborative effort, which finds Trippie Redd pairing up with Playboi Carti for a meeting of the minds. Powered by an interpolation of the original version featuring Boosie Badazz, this 808-driven cut serves as an early highlight from Trippie Redd’s sophomore set.
“Immortal”
Trippie Redd finds himself in a contemplative state with this salvo, as the crooning lyricist provides a moment of introspect and clarity. Featuring an appearance by The Game, the costars do their bidding over production by Hammad Beats, turning in one of the album’s more transparent selections.
“Mac 10”
Trigger fingers get to twitching on this star-studded tune that finds three of the more promising newcomers in the game forming like Voltron. Produced by Wheezy — who employs slithery flutes and 808s — Trippie Redd, Lil Duke and Lil Baby all come through with strong performances.
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