Pete Rock needs no introduction: “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.),” “The World Is Yours,” “Jazz (We Got),” the list goes on. The legendary NY producer links with two of the most through rappers out right now, Benny The Butcher of Griselda and Harelm’s own Smoke DZA. “By Any Means” is the opener, with Pete Rock looping a deceivingly simple sample (???) over warm, punchy drums. Another underground rap tough guy and fellow Griselda member Conway the Machine guests on “Bullets,” on which the MCs chronicle, with utmost dexterity and finesse, their past dealings with the streets. Completing the Griselda cipher is WestSide Gunn laying down his on “7:30,” and Pete Rock once again puts his magic touch on the Piano-driven beat. Also check out “Smoked and Butchered” featuring Styles P and “Drug Rap.”

• music label: Cinematic Music 2020

reviewed by singing in japanese 03/2020

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