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 is comprised of a new drop from one of the tenured vocalists in R&B, a promising rap star from Oakland, and one of the Chicago’s most discussed newcomers. In the midst of the whirlwind following controversial statements, Tank returns with Elevation, his latest full-length release. As he continues to raise his profile on a national scale, Guapdad 4000 comes through with his debut album, Dior Deposits. And last, but not least, Chicago’s own Lil Zay Osama looks to get listeners acquainted with his Hood Bible album.
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.
Tank: Elevation
”Elevation”
Membership to the mile high club is gained on this airy number, which doubles as the title track from Tank’s new long player. Featuring an appearance from Carvena Jones, this duet grabs listeners ears immediately upon pressing play and kicks off the proceedings on a favorable note.
”Champion”
Tank attacks a sparse, pulsating backdrop on this uptempo standout. Comparing his sexual prowess to the likes of Michael Tyson and Michael Jordan, the R&B vet shines on one of the more enticing offerings on the album.
”Dirty (Remix)”
Hitmaka constructs a plush instrumental for the remix to Tank’s single, which contains a prominent sample of Keith Sweat’s 1996 hit “Twisted.” Featuring guest vocals from Chris Brown and Racquelle “Rahky” Anteola, this ballad builds upon the original and stacks up as the most infectious tune on the track list.
Guapdad 4000: Dior Deposits
”Stuck With It”
Whenever you hear Tory Lanez’s vocals cascading over the beat, the likelihood of the song being a hit is at a peak, which could ultimately be the case with this salvo. While the Canadian crooner takes center stage, Guapdad lays down a pair of verses and a bridge of his own, effectively rounding out one of the superior cuts on his latest body of work.
”Gucci Pajamas”
Melodic flows are employed by Guapdad on this infectious groove from his new stimulus package, which doubles as the album’s lead-single. Produced by The Stereotypes, the track includes additional vocals from Chance the Rapper and R&B legend Charlie Wilson, whom collide with Guapdad for the premier collaborative effort on this outing.
”Izayah”
Guapdad 4000 cranks out a scammer-friendly anthem with this joint. Produced by Kenny Beats — with guest spots from KEY!, Denzel Curry and Maxo Kream — this boisterous meeting of the minds casts Guap with three of the finest spitters out of the south and is sure to put any function within earshot into a riotous frenzy.
Lil Zay Osama: Hood Bible
”Percocet Crazy”
Lil Zay Osama waxes poetic about the thrill of popping prescription pills on this early highlight from the newcomer’s debut offering. Produced by Jtk, this booming number finds the spitter attacking the 808 drums in a rabid fashion, while showcasing his harmonic and lyrical chops in the process.
”Trencherous”
For the remix to his breakout 2019 hit, Lil Zay Osama connects with fellow Chi-Town rep Lil Durk to give listeners a birds-eye glimpse into the inner workings of the trap. Produced by Fatman Beatzz, this number finds the pair reporting live from the gutter and stands as one of the stronger inclusions on the album.
”Buss Down”
EarlOnTheBeat helms the boards on this single that has the star basking in the trappings of his newfound wealth. Featuring Lil Tjay, this buzz-worthy offering is sure to keep Osama’s name in the conversation for artists to watch for the foreseeable future.