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 heat includes a sequel from one of the biggest stars out of the south, a major label debut from one of the most buzz-worthy female spitters in the game, and a quick-strike project from one of the Bay Area’s finest. Months after unveiling his Delusions of Grandeur album, Gucci Mane doubles down with Woptober II, his second release of the year and the Atlanta rep’s fifteenth solo studio album. With her stock and popularity at an all-time high, Kash Doll looks to cement herself as a breakout star with Stacked, the Detroit native’s highly anticipated debut album. And last, but not least, as Halloween draws near, G-Eazy gets in the Halloween spirit with Scary Nights, an eight-track offering with music tailor-made for the forthcoming festivities.
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.
Gucci Mane: Woptober 2
”Richer Than Errybody”
The proceedings are ratcheted up immediately on Gucci Mane’s latest collection, as this introductory track finds Mr. Woptober coming out of the gate swinging. Featuring YoungBoy Never Broke Again and DaBaby, this ditty captures the southern stalwarts getting their flex on while running roughshod over production by Lex Lugor.
”Big Booty”
Plenty of derrieres are in the air on this charged-up twerk anthem from Gucci’s latest long player. Produced by J. White Did It, and featuring an appearance from Megan Thee Stallion, who continues her streak of show-stealing guest spots, this guitar-laden number is undeniably infectious and has the potential of becoming a runaway hit.
”Wop Longway Takeoff”
Guwop connects with a few longtime collaborators on this highlight from the vet’s new body of work, which includes impressive stanzas from Peewee Longway and Takeoff. Produced by Bobby Kritical and Da Honorable C.N.O.T.E., this braggadocios banger boasts an ample amount of replay value and is primed to be one of the most popular offering from this release.
Kash Doll: Stacked
”Ready Set”
Kash Doll shines on this uptempo selection, which finds the femme fatale phoning in fellow Detroit rep Big Sean for back up. Produced by Take A Daytrip, this feel-good track helps get the proceedings rolling and kicks the album off on a favorable note.
”No Lames”
Trust issues are the topic of discussion on this outing, as Kash Doll gives the boot to broke boys and infidels. Produced by Yonni, with guest vocals courtesy of Summer Walker, this tune ranks among the more exceptional offerings on the Republic signee’s debut and packs plenty of bounce to spare.
”Feel Something”
The rapper employs a melodic delivery as she displays her affection for a special lover on this syrupy number. Featuring Teyana Taylor, this track thrives on account of the pair’s collaborative chemistry and captures the unabashed man-eater sharing her vulnerabilities over production by Nic Nac.
G-Eazy: Scary Nights
”I Wanna Rock”
G-Eazy brings the party to life alongside Gunna on this riveting salvo from the hit-maker’s new batch of loosies. Enlisting the production talents of Boi-1da, Jahaan Sweet, Sevn Thomas and Audi — who team up to deliver an 808-driven backdrop — the new Elvis turns in a selection that hits on all cylinders.
”Big Ben”
Preme rides shotgun on this selection, which finds the spitter playing a complimentary role on this heater. Produced by Kamyar Karimi and Daniel Wagner Cash, this standout boasts a focused rhyme spill from G-Eazy, who reels off a succession of cocksure couplets that will surely give rewind-buttons a workout.
”Demons & Angels”
Matters of the heart are addressed on this reflective number, where G-Eazy spills his thoughts atop a track produced by Nik Dean & Foreign Teck. Featuring guest spots from Miguel and The Game, this collaborative effort doubles as one of the highlights from the EP and finds the trio matching style with substance.