Rae Khalil (feat. The Free Nationals) – ALLSTAR
Los Angeles-based rapper Rae Khalil teams up with The Free Nationals for a soulful, summertime bop. With a looping talkbox vocal and a groovy bass line, “ALLSTAR” is a great song that’ll put you in a good mood.
Medhane – I’m Deadass
Brooklyn’s Medhane is back and better than ever with the lead single for his album, “Cold Water,” which was released on May 26. Medhane shows us how seamless it is to be a skilled rapper, featuring his signature witty lyricism and impeccable flow, “I’m Deadass” is confident.
J. Walt – Fade Away
On May 22, Oakland’s J. Walt dropped his debut album, “Yours Truly.” The album is a collage of his thoughts and feelings as he grew up; he comes to terms with his identity and confidently spits over well-produced instrumentals by DJ Toure. On “Fade Away,” J.Walt is fierce and braggadocious, commanding the listener’s attention with his clever bars and effortless charisma.
Goya Gumbani & Kiina – Sitting Right
Hailing from the United Kingdom, Goya Gumbani and Kiina have a unique approach to music. A standout track from their collab EP, “The Lesser Known,” “Sitting Right” is a jazzy, colorful track that is paired with a slick visual that’s well shot and edited.
Aflacko – Case Closed
Originally previewed with a snippet on his Instagram, East Oakland’s Aflacko’s latest is a highlight off his most recent EP, “Youngest in Charge.” Opening with subtle repeated chords before morphing into a banger soaked in Flacko’s melodic rapping style, “Case Closed” will get you moving around the house.
Michael Sneed – We Got It (Sweet Promise)
This simple yet sweet song was only released on May 15, but it’s already one of our favorites. Michael Sneed’s new single features a melodic guitar, shining vocals and powerful raps. This song is sure to put a smile on your face during difficult times.
Thomas Jordan – Gentle (feat. BxRod)
Producer Thomas Jordan steps out from behind the piano for his debut EP “My Ex Stacy.” His sound is whimsical, featuring colorful textures and sweet melodies. His vocal tone is soft and subtle. On “Gentle,” Jordan sings smoothly over a watery instrumental that echoes throughout the track.
$ilkMoney – Not the Cat Y’all Saw Yesterday
$ilkmoney’s new album, “Attack of the Future Shocked, Flesh covered, Meatbags of the 85” has arrived, and “Not the Cat Y’all Saw Yesterday” definitely stands out from today’s mainstream music. The track itself has an old-school feel, which pairs surprisingly well with $ilkmoney relentless rap. The contrast is sure to keep you interested, hanging onto each word during its three-minute duration.
RIMON ft. Denzel Curry – Got My Back
This incredible collab was a great surprise; RIMON’S warm and slightly raspy voice teamed up with Denzel’s fast-paced rap, was everything we needed. It’s a soulful, slow R&B song backed up by smooth saxophone and a beautiful chord progression. This song is the perfect laid-back bop for late nights.
Castillo – el mensaje
Featuring a buttery guitar-based instrumental produced by RØMANS and a lush vocal performance from Alaina Castilo, the standout track from her latest EP is a must-listen.