Roc Marciano returns with “656,” a cinematic, off-kilter rap album that rewards unorthodox flow lovers.

Roc Marciano is back with a new album titled 656, and it’s pretty much a dream project for unorthodox rap fans.

From start to finish, Roc—who self-produced the album—deliberately avoids riding the beat, opting instead for a loose, almost off-kilter approach that feels very Earl Sweatshirt-esque (Earl isn’t the only dude who raps like this, but I think he’s the most popular right now). It might throw some listeners off at first, but once you adjust, there’s a lot to appreciate here.

The production is elegant, gritty, soulful, and high-quality across the board, easily the album’s strongest aspect. Lyrically, Roc is in his comfort zone, delivering street-heavy bars that touch on his hardened mindset, hustler mentality, and reputation as a certified ass-whipper. His gravelly, no-frills delivery only adds to the project’s rawness, giving it a cold, unapologetic edge.

While I genuinely rock with the sound, the aesthetic, and especially the production, I’m not sure how often I’ll find myself spinning this back. It’s impressive, it’s intentional, and it’ll absolutely satisfy fans who love this lane, but it feels more like an album to respect than one I’ll keep in heavy rotation.

STREAM

MY 5 FAVORITE TRACKS

5. Childish Things

4. Good For You

3. Melo

2. Rain Dance

1. Vanity

RGM GRADE

(B)

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.