Zayfromthebay – Rise & Grind: It’s My Time (Album Review)

A polished, versatile album that showcases confidence, emotion, and grit.

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TOP 5 SONGS

5. Couldn’t See That Far

I love it when rappers talk about getting it out of the mud.

There are a few tracks on this project that touch on Zayfromthebay’s come-up, but none of them hit quite like “Couldn’t See That Far.” Beyond the substance, which details his resilience, grind, and eventual rise, it’s the way he delivers it that stands out, attacking the beat with a relentless rap style that demands respect. The production plays a huge role too, blending a slick, low-key vibe with solid bass and a dope tempo that perfectly complements his approach. All of those elements come together seamlessly, making this one of the most complete and satisfying tracks on the project.

4. Shade (Ft. A.J. Da Sheriff)

This s**t is hard as hell.

“Shade” is powered by a mean, Southern-style beat that leans heavily into Memphis energy, packed with bass that’ll rattle speakers and threaten the foundation of your house. A.J. Da Sheriff sets the tone with a laid-back chorus I’m a big fan of, calmly letting it be known he’ll whoop ass if anyone tests him. Zayfromthebay comes through breathing fire on the verses, effortlessly switching up his flow and dropping vivid bars about handling his opps whenever the situation calls for it. Overall, this feels like one of those album cuts you blast at max volume just so your enemies know you’re not to be played with.

3. Yaaa Yaaa

Talk your shhhh, Zay!

“Yaa Yaaa” is one hell of an anthem. The production hits hard, built around punchy elements, a strong tempo, and a cinematic edge that makes the track instantly memorable. Zayfromthebay really goes off on the chorus, delivering something catchy and repeatable that listeners will latch onto immediately. On the verses, he switches it up with a sly, confident approach, highlighting his boss moves and unshakable self-belief. Overall, this feels like one of those records that further cements Zayfromthebay as a legitimate hitmaker.

2. Do My Thang

Every single track called “Do My Thang” is solid.

This track feels like the ultimate Cali anthem. The dark production, paired with a West Coast–inspired rhythm and piano work, is guaranteed to have you breaking out whatever gang dance you know. Zayfromthebay clearly has fun over the beat, delivering an extra-catchy hook, punchy flows on his verse, and strong animation throughout. Lyrically, he leans into his major come-up, touching on the women he woos and the lavish lifestyle he enjoys. No matter the venue, this one is built to go off.

1. Noo Noo

“Noo Noo” has one of the best beats I’ve heard this year.

The production on “Noo Noo” is the immediate standout, fusing moody, late-night textures and soft piano accents with chest-thumping bass and a trap-driven bounce. Zayfromthebay floats over it effortlessly, sounding cool and unbothered as he opens with a laid-back flow before gradually cranking up the intensity, taking shots at women pushing for commitment and men who lack loyalty. By the time it ends, the track hits hard and lingers, leaving a strong impression that’s tough to shake.

SONG BY SONG RATING

1. The Monologue (3/5)

2. Do My Thang (3.5/5)

3. My First Love (Ft. Karena Sherie) (4/5)

4. Noo Noo (4/5)

5. Give Me A Sec (3.5/5)

6. Trust The Process (3.5/5)

7. My Last Shot (Ft. M.I.G.) (3.5/5)

8. Yaaa Yaaa (4/5)

9. Shade (Ft. A.J. Da Sheriff) (4/5)

10. Couldn’t See That Far (4/5)

11. Do My Thang (Ft. GT Garza) (3.5/5)

RGM RATING

(74%)

One thing you’re always going to get from Zayfromthebay is balance, and Rise & Grind: It’s My Time delivers exactly that. The album moves effortlessly between club-ready anthems, introspective moments, hard-hitting Southern records, and even a well-placed love song, giving the project variety without ever feeling scattered.

The production across the album is a significant highlight. Many of the beats sound like they’d go absolutely crazy blasting through car speakers, while others lean into smoother, slicker vibes with cinematic touches. Most importantly, everything feels polished and intentional, which really stands out in today’s oversaturated landscape.

As for Zayfromthebay himself, he attacks every beat with aggression and authenticity. He never strays from who he is as an artist, and that consistency pays off. You get moments of pure confidence, moments where he throws lyrical haymakers, and others where he lets his emotions spill out naturally.

The guest appearances also deserve praise. Each collaborator sounds energized and fully locked in, creating chemistry that complements Zay’s performances rather than overshadowing them. While his style may be an acquired taste for some, there’s simply too much to like here to ignore.