On Wax: Nas, Maxo Kream + More

Nas Unearths Lost Tracks

It has been 17 years since Nas gave us The Lost Tapes, and now the Queensbridge rapper delivered the sequel. The Lost Tapes II features tracks from as far back as 2006, which most of them didn’t make his previous four albums. Nas is as lyrical as ever over these tracks, featuring production from OGs like RZA and Pete Rock, and legends like Kanye West, Swizz Beatz, and No I.D. It’s interesting to hear tracks from such a large array of time. Nonetheless, Nas sequenced the songs well with a nice cohesive flow throughout the project.

Brandon Banks Arrives on Schedule

In what has to be one of the best progressions, Maxo Kream released his sophomore album, Brandon Banks. Named after his father, most of the album follows the narrative of their relationship. Where this album differs from his past projects, Persona Tape and Punken, is that it works to combine what you like best from each. Maxo Kream has approached a point in his career where he has began to pick up steam. Recently signing to RCA, it seems that Maxo is on his way up.

Rich Brian Continues to Glow

After dropping “Yellow” and announcing his new album, The Sailor, Rich Brian dropped a new single. “Kids” is a rap song where we see the Indonesian rapper absolutely murdering the soulful, feel-good beat. Rich Brian’s range is so incredible, as this song is very different from “Yellow.” The Sailor is already peaking interest as it is scheduled to drop this Friday. Hopefully, Rich Brian can top his debut, Amen.

Lil Tecca On the Rise

With “Ransom” blowing up, Lil Tecca doesn’t hesitate to continue to climb his way to the top. His newest song, “Bossanova,” sees the 16-year-old New Yorker singing and rapping over another potential hit. Lil Tecca has the flair he needs to blow up, so time will tell if he actually will.

Beyoncé Goes Black Panther with The Lion King

Ever since Kendrick Lamar and the whole TDE crew murdered the Black Panther soundtrack, motion pictures have been jumping on the trend of hip-hop artists curating a conceptual album for their film. The SuperFly remake featured a curated soundtrack by Future, and Creed II featured a curated soundtrack by Mike WiLL Made-It. Yet, none of these releases came close to the success that Kendrick created for Black Panther. So, who can top K. Dot? Beyoncé is not at all a bad answer, especially when tied to a major remake of a beloved Disney film. The Lion King: The Gift is almost an hour-long feat of African inspired R&B and hip-hop. While there are some interesting tracks, the album is plagued with interludes that are ripped straight from the film. All in all, it’s probably the second best album that is “inspired by a motion film.” However, Kendrick remains the king.

Until next time, it’s On Wax.

– Dyllan E. & Hiram