Ka: Honor Killed the Samurai (2016) (Hip-hop)

Unlike most traditional MCs, Ka does not rely on vocal fireworks and showy production, instead, Ka opts for an atmospheric, subtle approach mustering a cerebral almost cinematic experience of smoke and grime. His flow and the production all seem very background, sobering and mysterious while the verses he performs are cryptic, confessional and dark, yet deeply satisfying, intriguing and minimalist. A unique sound and aesthetic, Honor Killed the Samurai might not be for all hip-hop fans, but it is genre-pushing enough that many outsiders will perk their ears at this record. Few hip-hop records offer such a unique experience in such a cohesive fashion.

Best Tracks: Conflicted, Just*, That Cold and Lonely, Mourn at Night*, $*, Ours, FinerThings/Tamahagene, I Wish (Death Poem)*

A+

Abstract Hip-hop/ Conscious Rap/Experimental Rap

Young Thug: Jeffery (2016) (Hip-hop,Trap)

The eclecticism of Mr.Thug shines bright and effectively on this mixtape. All of the songs, excluding the last, (which is mediocre anyway) are named after his idols and many are influenced by them stylistically, this gimmick allowed Thugger to some of his most eccentric and diverse performances. The opening track Wyclef Jean features Thugger in a rocksteady inspired trap beat. The bass bangs the beat bops and Thugger hits a very melodic chorus. Harambe has him going "Ape shit" with vocals that Harambe would be proud of.
References to his idols are made, some apparent some harder to find.  His voice runs through all kinds of different notes, melodies, and flows, and can be seen as an evolved more sophisticated form of English language. Most of the beats used are good fits and quiet eclectic for pop-rap, elevating songs without much structure creating more of a vibe (Floyd Mayweather). Stylistically this mixtape is inconsistent, perhaps because of the concept of the album, yet it still showcases some of Thugger's best moments. Although these may not as high octane as some trap records, the diversity of performances and styles make it captivating and innovative. 

Best Tracks: Wyclef Jean*, Floyd Mayweather(was better w/o Travis Scott), Swizz Beatz, RiRi, Harambe*, Webbie, Kanye West*

B+

Mumble Rap/Trap