Now N' Laters I Post Malone, EarthGang and IDK
As summer winds down and we gear up for a new season, a number of artists have dropped projects. Which ones will you be listening to?
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 roundup of new albums is a mix of material from some of the most acclaimed artists to hit the scene in recent years. After dominating the charts with his monstrous sophomore effort Beerbongs & Bentleys, Post Malone looks to boost his approval rating even higher with his third studio album Hollywood’s Bleeding. Ingratiating themselves with a string of EP releases, EarthGang looks to up the ante themselves with Mirrorland. This project is the duo’s third studio album and first on [Dreamville Records]. Last, but not least, IDK attempts to shatter lofty expectations with his anticipated major label debut Is He Real, which is primed to put the DMV rep in the conversation as one of the most talented newcomers in the game.
With all three releases getting airplay and dominating the conversation, REVOLT TV 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.
Post Malone: Hollywood’s Bleeding
“Enemies”
Louis Bell crafts an intoxicating backdrop for Post Malone to flex over on this standout from the rockstar’s latest collection. DaBaby joins in on the track who provides another quality guest outing on his resumé. Malone turns in an enticing number that’s sure to garner a positive reception.
“Die For Me”
The vibes get morbid on this pulsating tune from Post Malone, who unpacks the emotional baggage that comes from betrayal and disloyalty. Produced by Happy Perez, Watt and Louis Bell, this standout is among the more high-powered offerings on the album as it also features appearances from Future and Halsey.
“On The Road”
Fair-weather friends and opportunists get shafted on this explosive collaborative effort, which finds Post Malone sharing airtime with two of the hottest spitters in the game. Produced by Nick Mira and Louis Bell, this cut captures Malone trading bars with Meek Mill and Lil Baby on what proves to be one of the stronger moments on his new body of work.
EarthGang: Mirrorland
“Top Down”
The convertibles get pulled out on this feel-good ditty from Dreamville’s resident dynamic duo. Produced by Childish Major, who infuses the track with everything from guitar licks to jittery 808s, this number is among the album’s more sonically pleasing tunes.
“Proud of U”
Johnny Venus splits time in the booth and behind the boards on this highlight, which finds the EarthGang member notching a production credit while also putting in work on the lyrical tip. Featuring fellow ATL counterpart Young Thug, this sublime groove finds the trio melding their unique vocal styles with impressive results.
“Trippin”
Matters of the heart get broached on this snazzy number, which captures EarthGang’s vulnerabilities and finds the pair waxing poetic overproduction from Christo, Groove, and Johnny Venus himself. Enhanced by guest vocals from R&B star Kehlani, this syrupy tune is a gem of a record and is indicative of Johnny Venus and Doctur Dot’s ability to blend melodies with lyrical exploits.
IDK: Is He Real?
“Alone”
This hypnotic instrumental serves as the canvas for IDK’s rhyme spill on this winner from the DMV native’s latest full-length effort. Produced by Eden Eliah Nagar, Razjah and IDK himself, this cut finds IDK musing about naysayers while showcasing his vocal prowess, accounting for an awe-worthy selection.
“24”
Trunks get rattled, and blocks shake up pressing play on this boisterous banger, which finds IDK sauntering over aggressive piano keys and rollicking 808s. Produced by BLWYRMND, this track, which draws inspiration from the biblical passage Matthew 6:24, captures IDK in an unbridled state and has the makings of an early fan-favorite.
“Porno”
Raunchiness and fornication are at their peak on this clever conceptual cut from IDK’s new long player, on which the rapper helms the boards alongside producer Rascal. Featuring additional stanzas from Pusha T and J.I.D, this layered composition is an exemplary display of the breadth of IDK’s artistry.
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