"First Step" - Diamond District

Washington, DC / VA group Diamond District put out one of my favorite albums, period, a few years back. Now they're returning to destroy and "First Step" is the opening preview of their second album, March on Washington. Oddisee has been growing into a truly talented rapper -- as evidenced by the stellar "Rhymes on Random" -- and his closing verse here is proof that he's achieved Grandmaster status in his second element. As always, Uptown XO and yU are fierce & awesomely on point.

This is two victories for Mello Music Group in one month. They're building a Humble Empire out West, pay attention.

Mello Music Group - Mandalas Vol 1 & 2

A strong contender for Best Rap Project of 2014, at this point. This absurdly over-stuffed collection is a testament to the roster Michael Tolle has built.



"An embarrassment of riches." MMG's output in 2014 has been nothing short of absurd: Apollo Brown, L'Orange, Open Mike Eagle...an almost unfair level of bi-coastal consolidation of talent.



It must not go without comment that the cover art is gorgeous work. That's Matt Andres and you should hire him. Soon.

"People Hear What They See" - Oddisee

Dense, thoughtful, brilliant. This is one hell of an album.