(Photo by Arturo Torres)
Kehlani – It Was Good Until It Wasn’t
On May 8, Kehlani dropped her second studio album “It Was Good Until it Wasn’t.” The album features the likes of Tory Lanez, Jhene Aiko, James Blake and more. Kehlani sheds old skin on “It Was Good Until It Wasn’t,” unveiling a more refined and intimate artist who is poised to take over the pop world whenever she feels like.
Best tracks: Grieving, Water, Hate The Club
NAV – Good Intentions (Brown Boy 2 Deluxe Version)
The self-proclaimed “brown boy” of rap returns with his third studio album “Good Intentions.” The project flexes features from Lil Uzi Vert, Future, Young Thug, Gunna and even includes a new posthumous verse from Pop Smoke, who passed away in February 2020 (RIP Pop Smoke). On this album, Nav continues to show off his money, diamonds and cars with infectious melodies and raps that are sure to get stuck in your head.
Best tracks: Run It Up, Status, No Debate
Chicano Batman – Invisible People
Chicano Batman follows up their 2017 album and redefines their sound with the new project “Invisible People.” The album smoothly incorporates a wide range of sounds, varying from psychedelic pop to futuristic funk. The band worked with sound engineer Shawn Everett and producer Leon Michaels, giving their sound a more polished feel. Overall, this album is a fun and funky listen.
Best Tracks: Invisible People, I know It, Wounds
Lil Durk – Just Cause Ya’ll Waited 2
Lil Durk has finally released “Just Cause Ya’ll Waited 2” after teasing the album by dropping the singles “All Love,” “3 Headed Goat” and “Viral Moment” earlier this year. On the album, Lil Durk is consistent with his Chicago drill and auto-tuned sound. Lil Durk recruits fellow Chicago natives Polo G and G Herbo for this mixtape as well as Atlanta rappers Gunna and Lil Baby.
Best Tracks: Gucci Gucci, Street Affection, Internet Sensation
Lil Tjay – State of Emergency
Lil Tjay is known for his auto-tuned and melodic trap hits like “F.N.” and “Goat,” but on his new EP “State of Emergency,” Lil Tjay channels his roots and incorporates a New York drill sound. Lil Tjay mixes these two genres well and other New York rappers such as Fivio Foreign and Pop Smoke help to solidify the drill style.
Best Tracks: Ice Cold, City on My Back, Wet Em Up Pt. 2