Chaz Kangas |
| A$AP Rocky |
The world didn't end, the new year is upon us, and it's time to get pumped about 2013. While we've all but given up hope that 2013 will be the year we see Detox, there's still plenty of releases either officially announced or highly likely to land that have us excited. It's with the boom-bap baby new year in mind we bring you five hip-hop albums we're excited for in 2013.
See also: The Best Rap Singles of 2012
The Five Best Los Angeles Rap Albums of 2012
5. LL Cool J
Authentic Hip-Hop
While a 13th album from any rap artist might seem like a bit of a dark horse, we're actually psyched for LL's Authentic Hip-Hop. Early leaks “Take It” and “Ratchet” have caught a few longtime fans off-guard, and LL has proven time and time again that just when you've counted him out, he returns to relevancy. This'll be his first album since 2008's Exit 13, making this LL's longest stint away from the studio. We're willing to bet he returns to the mic with a vengeance. Just don't call it a comeback.
4. Kool G. Rap & Necro
The Godfathers
One of the most frequently seen names on “Greatest Rapper of All Time” lists, Kool G Rap is known for spitting some of the most celebrated verses ever committed to wax. As one of the genre's all time great innovators, it shouldn't be that shocking that he's teaming up for a project with Necro, whose production work is as consistently dope as it is rooted in hip-hop tradition. Few artists have shown as much reverence and understanding of G Rap's legacy as Necro, so a collaborative effort featuring both rapping and Necro behind the boards should play to both of their strengths.
3. Despot
Debut album, Title TK
Since 2004, former Definitive Jux MC Despot has maintained roughly a one-verse-per-year output average. While he may not be the most prolific rapper, Despot's developed a cult following for not having a wack verse in his catalog. A close associate of El-P, Ratatat and the now-defunct Das Racist, the odds of the new year finally bringing a Despot full-length are greater than they've ever been. If the new songs he premiered on this year's Killer Mike/El-P/Mr. Muthafuckin' eXquire tour were any indication, Despot's debut will prove worth the wait.
2. Pusha-T
My Name Is My Name
One-half of critical darlings Clipse, Pusha-T has long had hip-hop fans speculating what a full-fledged solo album from him would sound like. See as Pusha's aligned with Kanye West's G.O.O.D. Music, the potential production line-up and guest appearances make Pusha's My Name Is My Name a potential candidate for album of the year, as strange as that sounds.
1. A$AP Rocky
Long.Live.ASAP
We shouldn't be too surprised that an undeniably Harlem artist with a heavy Memphis, Houston and New Orleans influence has become one of the most buzzed about new MCs. A$AP Rocky's consistent output since 2009 has seen his fanbase rapidly expand to the point where he now sells out shows without an official retail album in stores. With Long.Live.ASAP's lead single “Goldie” strong enough to be released last summer and still top several 2012 Best Rap Singles lists, expectations for the album are high. With each leaked track stronger than the last, Long.Live.ASAP may already be 2013's safest bet.
See also: The Best Rap Singles of 2012
The Five Best Los Angeles Rap Albums of 2012
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