Ratings for albums by Consequence, Monaleo, and Leon Thomas.

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Consequence – ALL TIME HIGH

(C)

Consequence needs a software update.

Real ones understand that Kanye West’s musical journey wouldn’t be the same without Consequence. Consequence has been instrumental in writing some of Kanye’s tracks and remains one of his staunchest supporters. After a 14-year hiatus, he’s made his comeback with a new album titled Nice Doing Business with You.

This album feels like it was made in 2005. It mainly features soulful, traditional hip-hop production, very straightforward rap styles (Don’t expect to hear colorful melodies or fast flows), and lyrics filled with old people flexing. There isn’t a hint of modern hip-hop vibes, which is okay, I guess. I don’t think the project is bad; it just sounds severely outdated.

I was ready to download the tracks from this project featuring Kanye West and YNW Melly, but I didn’t even want them.

Favorite Tracks: “No Apologies,” “Overdose,” “Love You So.”

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Monaleo – Throwing Bows

(B-)

Monaleo has the same “it” factor as Latto.

Monaleo is the latest femcee to hit the scene, ready to kick ass and take names. One thing people might notice right away is how much she sounds like Latto. Both rappers bring aggressive energy, deliver sneaky-good punchlines, and love to flex on the competition. Their voices even have a strikingly similar tone. In an effort to carve out her own lane, Monaleo dropped her new project, Throwing Bows.

From the moment you press play on Throwing Bows, you’re hit with menacing, hard-hitting trap beats, explosive rap deliveries, and tons of trash talk—the typical s**t you’d expect from Latto. The key difference is that Monaleo leans a little more toward modern Texas-inspired vibes. Her songs also have more vivified setups, and her sarcasm is on point. Honestly, this project is super entertaining from start to finish.

Favorite tracks: “Wam Bam,” “Passenger Princess (Jibbitz)” and “Don Who Leo”

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Leon Thomas – MUTT

(C+)

And the award for biggest surprise album goes to… “MUTT!”

Can I be completely honest with you? Before today, I wasn’t familiar with Leon Thomas. To be fair, with so many artists out there, it’s tough to keep up with them all. That said, Leon just dropped a new project called MUTT, and people are raving about it. Throughout the album, you’ll hear a range of R&B styles—from commercial and neo-soul to gritty, soulful, and vintage-sounding R&B. Leon gives his all vocally, pouring emotion into almost every track. At the same time, he comes across as smooth and effortlessly cool. The album also boasts strong guest features from Wale, Masego, and Freddie Gibbs. Overall, it’s a very diverse and impressive R&B project.

Favorite Tracks: “FAR FETCHED,” “FEELINGS ON SILENT,” and “MUTT”