Back catalogue: Hip Hop/R&B

Review: Rakim's latest release finds him embracing his legacy with renewed energy, bringing together a host of hip-hop veterans for a collection that bridges old-school sensibilities with timely reflections. The project feels like a communal endeavor, spotlighting the strengths of seasoned emcees like Kurupt and Masta Killa. Their contributions, especially on tracks like 'Be Ill', resonate with a collaborative energy that reminds listeners of Rakim's deep-rooted influence. Though Rakim takes on the role of producer for the first time, his choices show an appreciation for the genre's classic sounds. The lineup, featuring artists like Planet Asia and B.G., offers stylistic contrasts that highlight Rakim's ear for talent and respect for regional voices. Highlights include the introspective 'Now Is the Time' and 'Love Is the Message', which are rich with lyrical insight and raw delivery. Despite his relatively sparse rapping here, Rakim's presence is felt throughout. His influence in curating this network of artists and his production underscore the powerful role he continues to play as an architect of hip-hop, ensuring that, while his sound evolves, it never strays far from his roots.

Review: Featuring a stellar lineup of guest artists including Boldy James, Kool Keith, Grip, Blu, Fatboi Sharif and more, here's an album that truly showcases a seamless synergy between Real Bad Man's atmospheric production and YUNGMORPHEUS's captivating lyricism. From the stony and atmospheric ambiance to the funky undertones, each track on the album offers a unique sonic experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional hip-hop. Real Bad Man's meticulous attention to detail in tailoring the beats to complement YUNGMORPHEUS' flow is evident throughout the project, resulting in a cohesive and engaging product. YUNGMORPHEUS's introspective lyrics delve into themes of dichotomies and self-reflection, adding depth and substance to the album's narrative. Tracks like 'Tripleback Tuck,' 'Just The Three of Us,' and 'Flick of The Wrist' showcase his lyrical prowess and ability to effortlessly navigate complex subject matter. With The Chalice & The Blade, Real Bad Man and YUNGMORPHEUS have crafted an album that transcends genre conventions, delivering a thought-provoking and sonically rich experience that is sure to resonate with fans of innovative hip-hop.