2013 Hip Hop Albums of the Year Part 2

Round 2...Fight!

Earl Sweatshirt - Doris

This album spoke to me more than all of the other albums this year combined.  I think we all have a little bit of Earl's cynicism and confusion in all of us.  The production was on point and set an ominous tone with witty metaphors and thoughts no person in their right mind should have.  But hey what do you expect from an Odd Future member.

Executive Producers: Earl Swearshirt

Beats By: randomblackdude, Neptunes, Frank Ocean, Tyler the Creator, RZA, Alchemist, BadBadnotGood Christian Rich

Vocal Features: Frank Ocean, Tyler The Creator, RZA, Mac Miller, Vince Staples, Casey Veggies, Domo Genesis

Beats: 8

Ryhmes: 9

Life: 9

Ka - The Night's Gambit

I dont think y'all understand how much I appreciate New York/ East Coast rap.  The boom bap, punchlines, rewind that moments and great story telling.  This album has all of that.  You may know of Ka by listening to Roc Marciano albums but the kid is definitely on his own on this one.  One of the most slept on albums of the year.  Do yourself a favor, go get it.

Executive Producers: Ka

Beats By: Ka

Vocal Features: Roc Marciano

Beats: 8

Ryhmes: 8

Life: 8

Travis Scott -  Owl Pharaoh

I had no expectations going into this album but boy, did that ever change.  I see why Kanye put that bread up and signed this dude away from T.I.  Anyway the kid can rap, but the production is what you need to listen to this album for.  Knee slappers and trunk knockers throughout. 

Executive Producers: Travis Scott, Grand Hustle

Beats By: Travis Scott, J Gramm Beats, Mike Dean, Kanye West, Toro Y Moi, Wundagurl, Young Chop, Lex Luger

Vocal Features: 2 Chainz, Wale, A$AP Ferg, Meek Mill, James Fauntelroy, Paul Wall, Theo London

Beats: 10

Ryhmes: 8

Life: 7.5

Childish Gambino - Because the Internet

I like Mr. Glover because he makes the music that he wants to make.  Produces and writes his own music and consistently is down to earth and writes some seriously funny punchlines.  This album is one of his more personal recordings, more like Camp, less like Royalty.  Either you like him or do don't, but you can't ignore the guys talent.

Executive Producers: Donald Glover

Beats By: Childish Gambino, Christian Rich, Ludwig Goransson, Thundercat, Pop Levi, Sam Spigel

Vocal Features: Chance the Rapper, Azelia Banks, Lloyd, Jhene Aiko, 

Beats: 7.5

Ryhmes: 8.5

Life: 8

Ghostface Killah - 12 Reasons to Die

Best album of the year by some peoples standards, and I can definitely see why.  This is a storytelling masterpiece, you actually feel like you're watching a movie and in some parts, like your behind 2-way glass, eavesdropping on the whole plot.  I'm not going to give away the ending but Ghost kept this joint Wu and it is probably his best work since Fishscale.

Executive Producers: Rza

Beats By: Adrian Younge

Vocal Features: Masta Killa, U-God, Inspectah Deck, Cappadonna, William Hart, Killa Sin, 

Beats: 9

Ryhmes: 9

Life: 8

Action Bronson - Blue Chips 2

In my opinion, the first installment of the Blue Chips series wasn't their best work.  I preferred Dr. Lecter and his work with Statik Selektah.  But this puts you in a mood.  This takes you back.  I guarantee this will be played at frat parties and beaches nationwide.  The vibe just has that type of appeal and the way Bronson shows his versatility is applaudable.  And for some reason, listening to Action Bronson always makes me hungry...

Executive Producers: Action Bronson, Party Supplies

Beats By: Party Supplies

Vocal Features: Big Body Bes, Meyhem Lauren , Ab-Soul, Mac Miller, Retchy P, Jeff Woods

Beats: 9

Ryhmes: 9

Life: 8.5

Part three to come....