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 projects consist of a timely release from one of the most respected emcees in rap history, a new effort by one of R&B’s rising vocalists, and a drop from one of New York City’s hottest prospects. As he continuously expands his portfolio, Common returns to the booth for Let Love. The project proves that he has yet to lose his ability to craft a cohesive body of work. After garnering rave reviews for his debut album, TDE crooner SiR looks to further entrench himself at the forefront of R&B with Chasing Summer. This project is the Cali native’s sophomore album. And last, but not least, Queens rep Lil Tecca looks to establish himself as an artist to watch with his debut mixtape We Love You Tecca. The project is a collection of quick-strike tunes that captures the newcomer’s versatility and the breadth of his artistry.
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.
Common: Let Love
“HER Love”
Common pens an open letter to the culture of hip hop with this opening number on his latest LP. The track finds him surveying the rap landscape and sharing his thoughts on its past, present, and future. Produced by J Dilla, with guest vocals from R&B vocalist Daniel Caesar, this selection has the makings of an instant classic and is further evidence of the Chi-Town poet’s greatness.
“Hercules”
Common takes things back with this banger. The single is produced by Swizz Beatz, who constructs a brooding soundscape for the rapper to do his bidding, which showcases the seasoned spitter in rare form. Common delivers a vintage performance that serves as a reminder of his lyrical prowess.
“My Fancy Free Future Love”
The horns get unleashed on this lively standout from the emcee, who crafts a feel-good jam that helps round out the proceedings on his latest volume. Produced by Burniss Travis, Karriem Riggins, and Samora Pinderhughes, this horn-heavy sound coaxes a vivid rhyme spill from the Windy City native and is among the more exceptional moments on the album.
SiR: Chasing Summer
“Hair Down”
SiR kicks off his latest long player with this silky groove, which boasts a guest verse from his TDE label-mate Kendrick Lamar. Produced by Michael Uzowuru, Jeff Kleinman and Mike Hector, this ditty finds the pair building upon their past collaborations with impressive results.
“John Redcorn”
Languid guitars and jittery snares comprise the backdrop for this number, which finds SiR in a state of solitude. Produced by Kal Banx and Jeff “Gitty” Gitelman, this sublime jam is powered by superb songwriting by the singer himself. The artist definitely penned one of the stronger compositions on his latest effort.
“Lucy’s Love”
Lucy makes her return on this standout from SiR’s new collection, which is anchored by a guest spot from Lil Wayne, who resumes his streak of show-stealing appearances. Produced by Kelvin Wooten and Saxon, this melodious tune ranks among the most enticing moments on Chasing Summer and is primed for heavy rotation.
Lil Tecca: We Love You Tecca
“Ransom Remix”
NYC and Chi-Town collide as Lil Tecca phones in Juice WRLD to ride shotgun on the remix to his breakout single. Produced by Taz Taylor and Nick Mira, this outing finds the pair effortlessly melding their harmonic styles, resulting in a banger that trumps the original.
“Did It Again”
Lil Tecca glides over percussion on this heavy salvo produced by Taz Taylor, Nick Mira, and E-Trou. Mixing his knack for melodic flows and lyricism, Tecca puts forth an infectious number that instantly jumps out at the listener as soon as they press play.
“Molly Girl”
Lil Tecca waxes poetic about designer drugs, and life in the fast lane on this heater from the upstart’s latest body of work. Produced by Menoh Beats, this 808-driven offering captures the Queens native’s sinewy flow and exuberant delivery.
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