James Blake has clearly taken a liking to the “surprise drop” approach to LPs. Although speculation about new tracks had been circulating for some time prior to any announcement, the two weeks’ notice that came with Blake’s official album tease still took many by delighted surprise.

Albums released in November by Action Bronson, Vince Staples and Smino have given rap fans a lot to be excited about. 

With the release of his fourth studio album, “cybersex,” blackbear continues to make his mark on the hip-hop/R&B scene as a brand-obsessed lyricist with a taste for the expensive, the glamourous and the grandeur. 

On “Culture II,” Migos aptly demonstrates why they are at the very top of their class. While not necessarily known for their lyrical density, their beats continue to be positively infectious, with thunderous baselines aimed at completely obliterating your subwoofer.