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 batch includes drops from one of the hottest collectives in the game, a long-awaited debut from a bonafide superstar and a stimulus package from one of New York’s finest. As their roster of talent continues to expand and dominate, Quality Control delivers their latest compilation, Control the Streets, Vol. 2. The project finds Migos, City Girls, Lil Baby, Lil Yachty and other talents from the label joining forces to create a heavy player. After numerous mixtapes and projects, Young Thug unveils his long-awaited debut album, So Much Fun, which includes appearances from Future, Juice WRLD, Lil Uzi Vert, Gunna, Lil Baby, Quavo, 21 Savage, Lil Duke, Lil Keed and Doe Boy. Last, but not least, A$AP Ferg tides over fans with a few tracks until his release of the full-length version of Floor Seats. Ferg’s soon-to-come project will consist of eight club bangers that will have the Harlem-based rapper waving his flag.
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.
Quality Control: Control the Streets, Vol. 2
“Baby”
Two of rap’s most popular infants collide in the playpen, as Lil Baby and DaBaby collaborate on this standout piece from Quality Control’s latest compilation. Rhyming over production by Wheezy, the two superstars connect for their first joint track to date with winning results.
“Pastor”
Quality Control’s resident first ladies get an assist from Quavo and Megan Thee Stallion on this rollicking heater, which finds the Migos member setting the stage for this epic song. Produced by Murda Beatz, this track is primed to become another anthem to fuel your hot girl summer.
“Like That”
Piano keys get tickled, as Mustard crafts the instrumental for this female-friendly offering, which stands as one of the standout tunes on Quality Control’s latest player. Headlined by the City Girls, Stefflon Don and Renni Rucci, this selection finds the quartet of femme fatals turning in a monstrous track geared towards the ladies.
Young Thug: So Much Fun
“Sup Mate”
ATL Jacob and DY Krazy create an 808-driven track for Young Thug on this highlight from his latest solo set. Featuring an appearance from Future, this selection finds the two building on their chemistry and picking up where they left off on their Super Slimey project.
“Ecstasy”
Young Thug basks in the euphoria of designer drugs on this bouncy offering from his latest effort. Produced by DY Krazy and 12HUNNA, this cut captures the Atlanta native at the height of his powers, as he delivers a superb performance that is sure to garner continuous spins.
“ Mannequin Challenge “
Young Thug finds himself exchanging verses with Juice WRLD on this number. Sauntering over a backdrop produced by J. Cole and T-Minus, Thugger and his Chicagoan counterpart get fashion forward while putting forth one of the stronger offerings on this long player.
A$AP Ferg: Floor Seats
“Wigs”
Tops get taken off on this up-tempo tune from A$AP Ferg, who phones in Asian Da Brat for a clutch guest appearance. Produced by Frankie P, this track finds the pair delivering a banger that’s sure to inspire a twerk session.
“Pups”
A$AP Ferg channels the spirit of DMX on this enticing offering, which finds him trading bars with A$AP Rocky. Produced by Frankie P, who flips a sample of X’s “Get At Me Dog,” this salvo captures the Harlemites reverting back to their roots. The two let off a barrage of bars in tandem on this track.
“Ride”
A$AP Ferg dims the lights on this smooth ditty from his latest collection, which finds the suave New Yorker in a state of seduction. Produced by Ricci Riera, with guest vocals from Ty Dolla $ign, this sensuous number provides a timely change of pace.
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