Albums from 2 Chainz, Fridayy, Drake, and more make the cut.
TOP 5
5. 2 Chainz, Larry June & The Alchemist – Life Is Beautiful
Vibes for the win—The Alchemist, Larry June, and 2 Chainz each bring their own brand of cool, blending their styles on Life Is Beautiful to create a project filled with grown-man wisdom, smooth and soothing instrumentals, and slept-on rap styles that often go overlooked due to their laid-back and quirky deliveries. However, this album isn’t built for high-energy moments—if you’re feeling sleepy, grab a coffee or make sure you’ve had a full night’s rest before diving in, as much of the project leans into a drowsy, unhurried vibe that may not click with everyone immediately. That said, if you take the time to truly absorb the lyricism, you’ll find a rich, rewarding body of work that showcases two rappers at the top of their game over The Alchemist’s masterful production.
4. Drake & PARTYNEXTDOOR – $ome $exy $ongs 4 U
$ome $exy $ongs 4 U is an R&B-heavy project filled with emotional crooning, lavish relationship themes, and late-night vibes, though it doesn’t break new ground for Drake or PARTYNEXTDOOR. While the production leans into PND’s hypnotic style, Drake dominates many tracks, addressing his usual themes of women and subliminal feuds. The album is cohesive but occasionally drags, with some tracks feeling overly familiar. Despite its lack of innovation, it remains a well-executed and enjoyable listen.
3. Westside Gunn – 12
When it comes to putting together cohesive bodies of work, Westside Gunn is near the top of the list, and this album does nothing to change that. 12 features some of the grittiest, purest hip-hop beats you will hear in your life, coupled with gritty interludes and outros. As for the rapping, it’s outstanding; however, I do believe you have to really appreciate unadulterated spitters, such as Stove God Cooks and Estee Nack. All in all, Gunn did it again with another street masterpiece.
2. Errol Eats Everything – Errol Eats Everything
Errol Eats Everything’s latest album is a powerful sonic journey that blends rock, funk, soul, retro hip-hop, and psychedelic influences to address pressing social issues, particularly racial inequality and injustice. With 17 tracks, the album vividly portrays the struggles of poverty, police brutality, and systemic oppression, incorporating sound elements like sirens and gunfire to amplify its message. Themes of loss, pain, and the scars of slavery are explored with raw intensity, urging listeners to take action. This album isn’t just music—it’s a compelling call for change, making it more than a casual listen but an essential reflection on society’s challenges.
1. Fridayy – Some Days I’m Good, Some Days I’m Not
Philly singer Fridayy released Some Days I’m Good, Some Days I’m Not on February 28th, and it’s one of the best albums I’ve heard in a long time. Split into two distinct discs, the first half offers light, fun, and flirty energy, exploring themes of romance and personal growth, with sultry tracks like “One Call Away” featuring Chris Brown and “Saving My Love” featuring Kehlani. The second half shifts dramatically, delving into grief, loss, and internal struggles, with raw, emotional tracks that resonate deeply. The album masterfully blends hip-hop and R&B, making it an unforgettable, no-skip experience that will keep me coming back for more.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
