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As we head into the 2nd half of 2018, one can honestly look back at the past six months as a landscape changing time in music. These days, artists can drop projects in a second without any proper anticipation, order, demand or momentum and it could possible be the topic for the weekend. Unfortunately, quality doesn't typically follow these type of releases, and the music becomes an afterthought after just a couple of days. So when complete projects are released, and the quality of the music is there along with the presentation, it should be celebrated in full. Top Dawg Entertainment's stake as the best rap label in music has been solidified with the release of Redemption, the third studio album by the label's first signee, Jay Rock. While 2018 has showcased some of the lesser known acts in hip-hop step into mainstream spotlight, one can argue that Jay Rock has separated himself from the rest. In the age where trap sounds and Rap/Sung verses dominate the airwaves, a diverse sounding gangster rap album may very well end up being the album of the year. Redemption has been so well received since its release, that there's a growing feeling via social media and critics that Jay Rock may have out shined albums by Nas and Jay-Z/Beyonce that dropped the same weekend. Every box is checked off: introspection (OSOM, For What It's Worth), radio quality singles (WIN, Tap Out, King's Dead) and bangers (Broke +-, Wow Freestyle, Knock it Off). Jay Rock successfully raised the bar for his fellow TDE members as well as other rappers planning to drop this year. This release was very important for artist who may not have the biggest names in the game; it shows that fans will find the music and it will receive its just due if the quality is there. Redemption is the gold standard for albums this year.
Top 5 songs:
1. Knock It Off
2. For What It's Worth
3. OSOM
4. Rotation 112th
5. WIN