The Grey Area
This podcast covers rap and hip-hop from both the UK and the US. The hosts aim for balanced takes, acknowledging that while facts are clear, opinions often fall in the middle. New episodes are released on the 10th and 25th of each month.
Episodes
Is rap in 2026 missing something or are we just listening differently?
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0b5NMp3yA2c8YCsKCpYFx4?si=Z4n-LoszTi-r9jOYV8bBgA&utm_source=copy-link&pi=PdozsHlnT02ANRIP Sway. We reflect on his influence on UK rap before getting into September’s releases. Have AZ Chike and Unknown T given us projects worth talking about?We discuss music from Tierra Whack, Tobe Nwigwe, Fat Nwigwe and Dizzee Rascal, exploring experimentation, originalit
UK Rap Needed This: Inside Toddla T’s Steeze Factory
Toddla T’s Steeze Factory is giving UK rap something we have been missing: a proper space for MCs to get on the mic, catch a beat and show exactly what they can do.In this episode, we get into why Steeze Factory has become one of the most exciting platforms around for UK rap right now. No overcomplicated rollout. No pressure to arrive with a viral moment. No need for a huge music video budget. Jus
Boom Bap Is Back: Busta x J Dilla, Rapsody, Ransom & All Points East
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6fO2SRVxuq6FrVEDwP1YtV?si=4ee899a392744d05Boom bap did not go anywhere, but August made it impossible to ignore. In this episode we work through a stacked release schedule, starting with Busta Rhymes and J Dilla's Dillagence II, built entirely from previously unreleased Dilla production and arriving nearly two decades after their first link up. That opens the bigg
NPR Tiny Desk Performances GOAT Talk
We explore the art of Tiny Desk performances, highlighting iconic moments from Mac Miller, Eve, Doechii, Flo Milli, Little Simz & JID. We talk about what makes these performances unforgettable and how they showcase artists' true talents beyond studio recordings. Key TopicsThe emotional impact of Mac Miller’s Tiny Desk performanceEve’s influence and legacy in hip hopDoechii’s unique live perfo
Festival Fantasy Draft: Who’s Got the Best Setlist?
If you could create your own festival from scratch, who would be on the lineup?In this episode, we put the question to the group with a festival fantasy draft. Everyone has to build their ideal festival, choosing the name, location, vibe and opening act:What actually makes a festival unforgettable?It’s not just about booking the biggest names. The right festival needs a clear identity, a location
2026’s Best Rap Albums So Far: Drake, J. Cole, Lupe Fiasco, Vince Staples & The Underground Taking Over
From chart-dominating heavyweights to boundary-pushing underground voices, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive years in hip-hop. June playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4AolvjjVfQOhHF83KuTNlu?si=9IWjmhL5Tfiie6W5-lBf7g&utm_source=copy-link&pi=uEHfmsreTIG44July playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6uuEzndJzpMlCIgZXnlDEq?si=0DtabORPTEmGJXFJYtmPRw&utm_sou
Football x Hip-Hop: How Rap Became the Soundtrack to the World's Biggest Sport
What happens when the world’s biggest sport collides with the world’s most influential music genre? In this episode, we explore the powerful crossover between football, hip hop, and global culture. We unpack how music shapes the identity of the game, and how football, in turn, influences the sound and reach of modern hip hop. From FIFA soundtracks to World Cup spectacles, we dive into iconic colla
Complex's Top 100 Rapper List Makes No Sense… And That’s What’s Wrong With Hip Hop
Complex’s Top 100 list has everyone talking, but we had to ask, what are we actually measuring right now in hip hop? With names like Drake, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Future, Travis Scott, Lil Uzi Vert, Don Toliver, Yeat, Playboi Carti, and Central Cee still dominating the conversation, the bigger question is whether rankings are reflecting real cultural impact or just numbers and momentum.We break
The State of Hip-Hop 2026: Jay-Z's Disses & Drake’s 3-Album Takeover: May Release Recap
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0UTur0sPV8DgLaMHdQDiDt?si=8009bd2c9e1f40deDrake, Jay-Z, and hip-hop in 2026 take center stage as we break down one of the biggest months in rap this year. We dive into Drake’s three-project drop: Iceman, Habibti, and Made of Honor. Standout tracks like “Janice STFU,” and whether this is a dominant new era or oversaturation.We also get into Jay-Z’s surprise freesty
3 albums?!? Drake’s Career, and the Honest Conversation We Need to Have
From the first time we heard Drake to where he sits now in the culture. We look at the run from So Far Gone through Take Care, Nothing Was the Same, If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late, Views, Scorpion, Certified Lover Boy, and finally Iceman, Made of Honour & Habibti.We break down how Drake went from a rapper people respected to one of the biggest artists in the world, and why his music star
Iceman, the state of Drake - a Quiet Month in Hip Hop: Release Recap April
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0MhPngW9BIndVPfjFQ1vYa?si=wlunbKX8T7eVMyN7Nz7toA&pi=zREO-E0kQ0aw9We recap a surprisingly quiet month in hip hop, even though there were still a few major headlines and releases worth talking about. We focus on Drake’s upcoming project, Iceman, and the pressure around whether it will deliver a concise, hit-filled album that feels worth the wait.We also get into
Album rollouts: How Streaming, Social Media, and Surprise Drops Changed Music Promotion
What was once driven by traditional media: radio, press runs, and scheduled releases has evolved into a fast-moving, multi-platform experience shaped by streaming services and social media. Today’s artists are not just releasing music; they’re building moments, narratives, and communities around their projects.We look at how promo strategies have shifted and what defines a successful rollout in to
J. Cole’s Controversial Controversies & Jaÿ Z Finally speaks | March 2026 Release Recap
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7DwITpYOQ4Nxp8b7TqvBi9?si=2a59d065b5ea45c3If you're into genuine discussions about rap legends, controversies, and future trends, this is your guide.Main Topics Covered:The controversy surrounding recent lyrical choices and themes in hip hop, notably among artists like La Russell and the impact of high-profile names mentioning sensitive topics.Analyzing J. Cole's
GOAT Talk: Rapper x Producer Combos
Which rapper–producer combos actually change careers and eras, not just make a few hot tracks?Rapper–producer chemistry is the focus this week as we dive into GOAT-level hip hop partnerships and how the right beats can shape an artist’s legacy. Little Simz & Inflo get their flowers first: a three-album UK run (Gray Area, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, No Thank You) of cinematic, skit-laced, g
Is Baby Keem the Leader of the New School? Ca$ino Review | February 2026 Release Recap
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6XIAum5FlOOtoxd6ShCZ6h?si=c4f04c6a35d2446dThe usual suspects dropped this month with Boldy James, Nicholas Craven & Ransom’s Salvation for the Wicked (gritty street tales over elite, menacing production) and Larry June, Curren$y & The Alchemist’s Spiral Staircase (smooth luxury rap with those organic, laid-back flows we love).We share our thoughts on Baby
J. Cole - "The Fall Off" Album Review 2026: Instant Classic? Hits, Misses & Final Verdict
J. Cole's The Fall Off dropped – years of hype, no features (except those sneaky Future & Tems ones), double-disc introspection that could either cement his GOAT status or has he fallen off for good.We share our raw takes and try to answer: Does this live up to the hype, or is it just J Cole Stan/Dreamville comfort food?Track-by-track, we dissect if the album meets fans expectations pre-releas
Grammys 2026 Hip-Hop Breakdown: Kendrick Lamar, Clipse, Tyler the Creator & International Rap
We get into the fallout from the latest Grammy Awards, with a spotlight on Kendrick Lamar’s historic wins and all the drama around the Best Rap Album category. We talk about where the line sits between commercial success and real artistic merit, how much live performances should matter, and why UK rap and hip-hop still don’t always get the recognition they deserve.From there, we zoom out and ask w
Don't Be Dumb - A$AP Rocky, Jan 2026 Release Recap
We break down A$AP Rocky’s fresh album Don’t Be Dumb, out January 16, 2026 – chatting themes, bangers like collabs with Tyler, The Creator and Doechii, and its experimental vibe that could shake up hip-hop.We talk about J. Cole’s recent freestyles, the ongoing buzz around his Kendrick rivalry (post-7 Minute Drill apology), and hype for The Fall Off (we recorded this before it dropped). We’ll disc
What Happened to ... A$AP Rocky?
THIS WAS RECORED BEFORE HIS RECENT ALBUM DROPPED.His Rise… and Fall (2011-2018)?What were our introductions to A$AP Rocky?LiveLoveA$AP - revolutionary or overrated; was this mixtape a good thing for NYC Hip-Hop?Discuss the impact of the likes of A$AP Yams, Clams Casino and SpaceGhostPurrp on the rise and success of RockyOf the three major releases, which do we think is his best?Tyler and Rocky; di
Most Anticipated 2026
We discuss our most anticipated music projects for 2025, reflecting on the impact of 2025's releases including A$AP Rocky, Drake's Ice Man, J. Cole's 'The Fall Off' (again), Yasin Bey (again), The Alchemist (again), Baby Keem (again) Stove God as well as UK artists like Enny Skepta & Kano (again).We also talk about the potential shifts in music trends for 2025.Hon. Mentions:A$AP Rocky - Don’t
Grey Awards 2025
The 5th annual Grey Area Awards – TGA Awards 2025 – breaking down the year’s best rap and hip-hop tracks, albums, and artists. Using our custom shortlist, we debate everything from elite lyricists and heavyweight albums to underground gems and scene-defining verses.Best of 2025 Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/61KqimvVFj2k6Dw5vdS76q?si=750fdbb3ffac48a5We highlight the projects and MCs
Release Recap (Nov 2025)
We are back with another release recap, talking about new projects that all dropped in November. This episode we get into the new Armand Hammer & The Alchemist’s album - Mercy, Danny Brown’s experimental yet vulnerable Stardust, and Navy Blue’s meditative The Sword & The Soaring. We also talk through ANOTHER new Boldy James tape plus Wale’s introspective, melodic Everything Is a Lot.&
GOAT Talk: What is the Best Uk Rap Album?
We dive deep into a bracket-style tournament featuring 32 of the most iconic UK rap albums, exploring the soundscapes, lyrical prowess, and cultural impact that these records have left on the scene. Join us as we dissect some of the greatest and most controversial picks in UK rap history.Main Content:**Setting the Stage: Understanding the Bracket** The podcast opens with hosts Sean and Sam settin
Dave - The Boy Who Played the Harp Reaction & Release Recap October
We talk about Dave's new album, "The Boy Who Played the Harp," discussing its themes, production, and how it's been received. We explore its introspective vibe, the absence of big commercial hits, and how it stacks up against his earlier work. We also touch on other recent releases, like Mobb Deep's posthumous album and Bruiser Wolf's unique style, while reflecting on the hip-hop and R&B scen
The Great GOAT Debate
In this heated roundtable, we dive deep into hip-hop’s ultimate question: Who is the Greatest of All Time? Each of us comes armed with a pick and a perspective and no one’s backing down.Kiran rides for Ye (Kanye West), the visionary producer-turned-icon.Theo champions Nas, the poet of Queensbridge.Sean defends Kendrick Lamar, the modern prophet.Sam stands behind Jay-Z, the blueprint of hip-hop exc
Release Recap (Sept 2025)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1A1DXpiOsTefuDw0jP7ZBW?si=e65741df9ba743b6We chat about the latest music releases, diving into albums from artists like Cardi B, Kojey Radical, and Young Thug. We explore the impact of these albums, the artists' evolution, and the vibrant UK music scene. Plus, we're buzzing with anticipation for upcoming releases from big names like Dave and J. Cole. Join us for a
2000s Hip Hop Videos GOAT Talk
We are back with another music videos GOAT talk, this time it's the 2000s , where creativity and culture collided in unforgettable ways. https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY_nLb6-ciMQyO4XvzCzr4vP5ICxIwel5&si=T92XWp8enCdLKzjcWe're reminiscing about the iconic visuals and beats from Wu-Tang Clan, Busta Rhymes, Outkast, and Kanye West. Discover how these videos not only defined an era but also i
Release Recap (August 2025)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/452Zfjg1v6epiasKWps9hu?si=29940f8b3823459fIn this episode, we chat about the latest music releases in August, including JID's "God Does Like Ugly," DJ Premier & Roc Marciano's "The Coldest Profession," Chance the Rapper's "Star Line," and Earl Sweatshirt's "Live Laugh Love." We dive into the unexpected moments, like Neil's spider encounter, and explore the hig
Verses in Valhalla: 2pac's Greatest Verses
Join us as we dive into the powerful and poetic world of 2Pac's verses. In this episode, we explore the themes, emotions, and stories behind his iconic lyrics. From social justice to personal struggles, 2Pac's words continue to resonate and inspire.https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY_nLb6-ciMTnumOngrqYoCAdgvZQfavw&si=-X_tWnZawDQb2xGY
Release Recap (July 2025)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2MxHQM7ohFU9TGcS7oYMQP?si=fed008ae8e694cf7July was a super packed month Boldy James' won't stop dropping albums this year it seems and Freddie Gibbs' is back with Alfredo 2. We also talk about the impact of the recent beef between Skepta & Joyner Lucas, whether or not Alchemist is GOAT producer highlight emerging artists like Jim Legxacy as well as talk about
REVIEW: Clipse - Let God Sort Em Out
Join us as we dive deep into the Clipse's latest album, exploring its themes and standout moments. We debate whether Push or Malice takes the lyrical crown. With features from Kendrick, Tyler the Creator, Stove God, Ab Liva, and Nas, we dissect the impact of each artist, including Pharrell's vocal contributions. Is this album one of the bestof the year? Tune in for our top track picks and scores.
Mid-Years - Best Albums of 2025 so far… June 2025 Recap
Join us for our mid-year look at hip hop in 2025. We talk about the fresh energy and new sounds in the scene. We highlight albums from artists like Little Simz, Wretch 32, and Billy Woods. We also discuss the strong impact of UK artists. Plus, we cover exciting album rollouts from Clipse and what to expect next. Tune in for our top picks and thoughts on hip hop's changes.
(Replay) What Makes a Great Album?
This episode, we discuss what it takes to make a great album. From skits and artwork, to concepts and sequencing - we cover it all!This episode was recorded on 10/06/2021.
Release Recap (May 2025)
We share our experiences from the Tyler the Creator, highlighting and the significance of showmanship in hip-hop. We also touched on the competitive nature of the genre, particularly focusing on Joey Bada$$ and his role in reviving East Coast hip-hop and shaking up things in the scene. We talk about new music releases, highlighting the impact of artists like Little Simz, Kendrick Lamar,
90s Hip Hop Videos GOAT Talk
In this episode, we’re throwing it back to the golden era of hip-hop, the 1990s, to discuss our favourite music videos that defined the culture. From iconic visuals to groundbreaking style and storytelling, we break down the most legendary videos from artists like Tupac, Biggie, Busta Rhymes, and more. Check out the full playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY_nLb6-ciMTiy7xKMChID6
Release Recap (April 2025)
We chat about the state of grime, focusing on Chip’s new project and how it’s landed. We touch on how grime’s shifted, with artists blending genres and the scene needing fresh energy. We also talk about Wiz Khalifa’s new album, discuss Wu-Tang’s legacy, and how TikTok’s shaping music.
J. Cole Discog Discussion
J. Cole stands as one of hip-hop’s most respected voices—an artist known for his introspection, lyrical depth, and unwavering authenticity. In this episode of Discog Discussions, we explore his evolution from acclaimed mixtapes like The Warm Up to chart-topping albums like Born Sinner and The Off-Season. We reflect on his storytelling, his shift in collaboration style, and how he balances artistry
Release Recap (March 2025)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4fZSeMQNCdjW4Lut1ZnuEn?si=40fa06f50b9f4b36We share our thoughts on Saba’s new album and Playboi Carti’s latest project. We highlight Little Simz’s growth, the Black Soprano Family’s new release, and the evolving hip-hop landscape. We also explore new releases in the UK scene including Chip, EsDeeKid, Unknown T DeeRiginal, namesbliss, Aitch as well as Wu-Tang’s res
Posse Cuts #5
We’re back for the fifth time with mor elf our favourite posse cuts!Modern classics and old school bangers as usualThe picksTheo: Baitest Sound - BBKSam: Don’t Like - Kanye WestSean: Glamour Life - Big PunNeil: Ante up - Busta Rhymes
Release Recap (Feb 2025)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0CxBi1XEOmtKI4MJNoSL4M?si=792af6664575477aFebruary has been a crazy month for hip hop in the UK, and we discuss the biggest moments shaping the culture. From Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performances and the ongoing beef with Drake.We talk about the relevance of award shows like the Brits, Mobos, and Grammys.Larry June and 2 Chainz’s collab album, as well as new re
We've made it to 100 episodes!
In this special 100th episode, we reflect on our four-year journey, exploring the UK hip-hop scene’s evolution, underground artists, and changing music consumption. We discuss mainstream hip hop’s stagnation, rising female artists, and the influence of Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Drake. We share personal experiences, first rap albums, and the impact of mixtapes, music videos, and platforms l
Release Recap (Jan 2025)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qDeyHGTS0th4unQk4H7L2?si=e71c57fe1b8d40b72025 has started off with a crazy amount of music coming out! We dive into the UK music scene, breaking down major releases, underground artists, and the Central Cee vs. Aitch beef. We discuss Central Cee’s marketing genius, the hype around Forbidden Frequencies, and Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy wins. The anticipation is b
Missy Elliott Discog Discussions #9
We explore Missy Elliott's extraordinary legacy, highlighting her rise in the '90s, her groundbreaking style, and her lasting impact on hip hop, dance culture, and female empowerment. Her collaborations with Timbaland and Hype Williams, her influence in making Virginia a hip hop hub, and her iconic music videos are discussed alongside the challenges she faced, including health struggles. We reflec
Most Anticipated Albums 2025
We discuss our most anticipated music projects for 2025, reflecting on the impact of 2024's releases including J. Cole's 'The Fall Off', Yasin Bey, The Alchemist, Baby Keem, Jay Rock, and Joey Badass as well as UK artists like Skepta, Jeshi, Central Cee, Krept and Konan.We also talk about the potential shifts in music trends for 2025.
Yacht Rock 3 (Grey Area Posse Cut) Ft. Cloud 9, SJ, Alexander T, 0ero & Bravehart
What kind of music reviewers would we be if we didn't make music ourselves?!Here's an end of year present from the grey area family, we have recorded our own track produced by Sam and recorded and written each member of the show. It's just a bit of fun and peak behind what we get up to outside of the podcastIn order of appearance - Cloud 9 (Neil), SJ (Sam), Alexander T (Theo), 0ero (Kiran) &
Grey Awards 2024
In this episode, we celebrate the 4th annual Grey Area Awards, sharing our picks for the year’s best tracks, albums, and artists. We highlight nominees like J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Tyler, the Creator, while reflecting on emerging talent and shifting music trends. We talk about standout producers, including the Alchemist and JPEG Mafia, and explore the evolving influence of female hip-hop arti
Kendrick Lamar - GNX Review (and November Release Recap)
What a month November was Kendrick Lamar's latest album GNX caught us by surprise and this episode we are diving into its themes, energy, and production while reflecting on his artistic evolution and the album’s impact on hip-hop.Nov Release Recap Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2koJ8BOTfbEFgr0N3SaNGJ?si=015dd17f36cf44a7Other releases:Freddie Gibbs - You Only Die 1nce (1 Nov)Ab-Soul -
MF DOOM - Mm..Food: A Timeless Classic
MF Doom's album ‘MM Food' is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The themes and concepts explored in the album include life lessons, commentary on the rap game, street lessons, and loyalty. MF DOOM's album 'Mm.. Food' is a classic that has stood the test of time and continues to influence the hip-hop genre. The album's concept, centred around food, is executed brilliantly with clever wordp
Chromakopia Review (sorta) / October Release Recap
This episode, we share our initial thoughts on Tyler, the Creator's 8th studio album, Chromakopia, and recap the month of October.Check out our favourite tracks of the month here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1UZWtdCzmP4Czp2WY1SMJB?si=e5ecb567c9874509
Hip-Hop’s Influences and Fusions
We’re diving into the fascinating connections between hip hop and its diverse cultural influences. We explore how these genres have helped shape hip hop’s evolution, pointing out the back-and-forth nature of the genre and its ties to dancehall & West Indian music. There's also a focus on the powerful impact of jazz and funk on hip hop, with legends like James Brown playing a major role.&n
Release Recap (Sept 2024)
It’s release recap time and this month we are discussing Kendrick Lamar's new track and its cultural implications, the allegations against Diddy and the industry's complicity, the evolution of hip-hop album structures, LL Cool J's recent album, Alchemist's rapping skills, and Nines' retirement. Watching the Party Die:A few months on from the Drake v. Kendrick beef, and in light of the recent
Does Hip-Hop Age Well?
We break down how certain artists like The Notorious B.I.G., Tyler, The Creator, and Lupe Fiasco have stood the test of time, analysing their impact and evolution. We discuss timeless projects like Lupe’s The Cool and Big Sean’s Detroit, and dive into the UK rap scene with legends like Kano, Wretch 32, and J Hus. We also debate the “top five” rappers, Big Sean's longevity, and Nas’ resurgence with
Release Recap (August 2024)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4nX7JGSrzQRi8nRpt1VOOW?si=df0c1a8cc2264c89JPEGMAFIA - I LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR YOU (1 Aug):Is Peggy the best Hip-Hop producer working today?Big Sean - Better Me Than You (30 Aug):Considering the sales and some of the responses from fans, why do we think Sean’s music isn’t quite connecting with the masses? Lack of volume/consistency, leaving GOOD Music…Honourable Men
Best LA Leakers Freestyles GOAT talk #9
Another episode of GOAT Talks for your head top! This time, we are talking about the crazy freestyles from the LA Leakers series. Standout performances, legendary bars, and why these moments are a must-listen. If you’re all about hearing rap at it's highest level, raw talent and high energy, this episode is a must listen!Our LA Leakers PicksNeil:Cordae - https://youtu.be/kvNgwgyidpY?si=WQ2ZJL
Release Recap (July 2024)
July has been a crazy month for the Hip Hop scene! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6kdIfmXPs0FLuZ0WjgnZo0?si=BRcYgsH1SN-feAbyq-FWYg&pi=e-h9Ae4bGhQ0OsThis episode, we discuss Eminem's and Childish Gambino's latest albums, offering mixed reviews on both. We dive into the tension between Drake and Childish Gambino, praise Wretch 32's most recent freestyle, and appreciate Bashy's authentic album
Posse Cuts #4
We are back for the fourth time with more of our favourite posse cuts! Some modern classics and some old school bangers too!The picksKiran Westside Gun's 'Red Death.' Theo - 'John Blaze' Sean - 'Blow Your Trumpet, Sam - Denzel Curry's 'Ain't No Way'
Mid-Years: Best Albums of 2024 so far… / June 2024 Recap-ish
June 2024 Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3tvcPTZdmoBI7YX2GZaleo?si=455ed5a9c4e94c7bOrder of play:Discuss top, recurring picksHighlight some of our individual, non-recurring selectionsKendrick Lamar's performance ‘The Pop Out: Ken & Friends’ concert in Los AngelesMore Drake Vs. Kendrick Talk (sorry it's still going on)Touch upon this weekend’s/June’s releases - KAYTRANADA, Action Br
Why Do We Buy? / Should We Boycott Streaming?
Despite the ease and affordability of streaming, why do we still purchase physicals, merchandise, attend live shows etc?We discuss James Blake’s comments, the ‘Living Wage for Musicians’ act, Vultures 2 release etc. as well as address the impact of TikTok, social media in general, and on-demand services on our attention span, and the impact this has on the quality and quantity of music.
Release Recap (May 2024)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/78Cqzayx8dw1q8vp57tRIB?si=f17bb37a9e7748a4Featured Albums Discussed: Mach-Hommy - #RichAxxHaition (17 May) Rapsody - Please Don't Cry (17 May) Vince Staples - Dark Times (24 May)Honourable Mentions (albums): Conway the Machine - SFK Bugzy Malone - THE GREAT BRITISH DREAM Chief Keef - Almighty So 2 M Huncho & Potter Payper - 3
The Art of Adlibs
What's our earliest memories of recognising adlibs and appreciating them?When and how did adlibs become such a prevalent part of the craft?Are producer-tags also adlibs?What are some of our favourite adlibs?Origins: Touch on the likes of James Brown and Michael Jackson Call and response / MCs and their hype men or DUs
EMERGENCY POD: Is Drake v. Kendrick Lamar Good for Hip-Hop?
meet the grey areaRecap the events since 3 May:Kendrick Lamar – 6:16 in LADrake – Buried Alive Interlude, Pt. 2Drake – Family MattersKendrick Lamar – meet the grahamsKendrick Lamar – Not Like UsDrake – The Heart Part 6Has it gone too far, and has the beef changed the way we look at both artists?Is this feud good or bad for Hip-Hop?
Drake v. Kendrick Lamar (Release Recap, April 2024)
The month of April was engulfed by the ever-escalating beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. Joined by our first ever special guest, we breakdown the timeline of events that followed Kendrick’s verse on Future and Metro Boomin’s ‘Like That’.https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1Jz6DOwDMRQT7GnCVjPeN4?si=848809a1dfa14d69
Posse Cuts #3
We are back with more of our favourite posse cuts! Some modern classics, some new? well we think they're new and not AI artists?
Release Recap (March 2024)
What a month March has been Kendrick’s feature on ‘Like That’Why now, and why Cole?ScHoolboy Q - Blue LipsDid Hip-Hop need this album?Tierra Whack - World Wide WhackWas this worth the wait?Future & Metro Boomin - We Don’t Trust YouFeuds aside, how we feeling about this one?Don't be a bum listen to our playlist of what we were listening to in March!https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4eCUJaUAnJJR
Do Industry Plants Exist?
Do industry plants exist? We explore the fine line between industry-backed success stories and genuine grassroots growth, looking at artists who might be made by the labels as opposed to found by them. This episode sheds light on the implications for authenticity, opportunity, and how the concept shapes our view of the music landscape.
Release Recap (Feb 2024)
It's release recap time! There's so much music that we didn't get to discuss that we've included a list of all the music we've listened to that came out in Feb Ghetts – On Purpose, With Purpose (23 Feb)¥$ - Vultures 1 (10 Feb):Little Simz – Drop 7 EP (9 Feb):Standout SinglesScHoolboy Q’s Blue Lips rolloutJ. Cole – Might Delete Later, Vol. 1Stove God Cooks – Melo Chip and a BrickSkrapz – Rocking Ch
Nicki Minaj - Discog Discussions #8
The Barbs in us are out in this episode as we discuss Nicki Minaj's discography!One of the greatest rappers of our time and still able to drop fire verses after well over a decade in the game.
Release Recap (January 2024)
We are back with another release recap covering all the latest hip hop releases from Jan 2024!From 21 Savage's new vibes to Tierra Whack's experimental sounds. We are also asking whether Dave could be the first to break out globally - his lyrical lemonade track with Jack Harlow could be the start of it. We talk about on the latest beef between Nicki Minaj and Meg the Stallion and music from other
Greatest Funk Flex Freestyles - GOAT Talk #8
GOAT Talk is back, this time spotlighting the ultimate Funk Flex freestyles. Brace yourself for a deep dive into the most iconic and explosive performances ever to hit the legendary show that is Funk Flex.
🗣 Most Anticipated Albums 👀 2024
We look ahead and share which projects and artists we are looking forward to and hoping to hear from in 2024!
The Grey Area Awards 2023
The third annual grey awards is upon us. We share some of our favourite albums, artists and beats of the year. This years awards were full of the usual chaos this year the sound board didn't work and award winners were changed live on air due to a user input error!If you're listening on spotify join in on the discussion and tell us your favourites from this year.
Sampha - Lahai (Review)
The spirit got us and we "reviewing" Sampha's latest release, Lahai!This is less of a review and more of a celebration of the great artist that Sampha is as well as a dive in to the themes of the album.This episode was recorded on 13/11/2023.
Release Recap (September-October 2023)
We are back with another release recap covering all the latest hip hop releases from Sept - Oct 2023, the year is closing strong! Nas is back with more magic, Drake has given us a something ... and we talk about the latest Armand Hammer releases and so much more. Below is a list of what came out and we cover at least half of that list (at least we tried to). Albums:Nas & Hit-Boy - Magic 3 (14
What Happened to… TDE?
Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Ab-Soul, Schoolboy Q, and Jay Rock are just a. few of the artists signed to the great record label that is TDE. GET TOP ON THE PHONE!In this episode, we take a closer look at the vibrant history and exciting prospects of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE). From their peak in the 2010s to addressing any 'downfall' rumours, we discuss it all. Envisioning artists who could have thrived
Earl Sweatshirt – VOIR DIRE Review & The Alchemist’s Legacy
In this episode, we explore Earl Sweatshirt's "VOIR DIRE" album, comparing it to his earlier work and discussing its exclusive streaming release on GALA Music. We also dive into The Alchemist's production, highlighting favourite beats on the projects, suggesting dream collaborations, and evaluating his industry impact since 2021.
Kendrick’s Control Verse 10 Years On…
We're revisiting Kendrick Lamar's epic 'Control' verse from 2013. Do you remember what was on your playlist that summer? Kanye's - Yeezus, J Coles - Born Sinner, some Drake maybe? Comment below on Spotify and let us know!We'll break down how the artists mentioned in Kendrick's verse have been holding up 10 years later and discuss the controversy his verse started at the time.
Noname, Mick Jenkins and the Current State of Chicago Hip-Hop
It’s been a busy month for Chicago! We dig deep into the long-awaited return of Noname and address the controversy swirling around her album rollout. Meanwhile, Mick Jenkins dropped "The Patience" with a fiery frustration that left us all feeling the heat! Finally, we share our thoughts on the current state of rap music coming out of the Windy City.Let us know your thoughts in the comments on Spot
50 Years of Hip Hop
Five decades of Hip Hop's musical evolution! From its gritty beginnings in NYC's streets, the genre has surged to global prominence, shaping the music landscape with its unique beats, powerful lyrics, and cultural resonance. We discuss what we think of the scene over the decades, it's evolution and it's influence on popular culture.Go to Spotify and comment your thoughts; WE DO/WILL REPLY!
BABY, Magic 2, Utopia, Beyoncé's Husband & X-Rated Music Videos
Here is our roundup of July. We "review" the new J Hus, Nas, and Travis Scott albums, and talk about far too many wild things because we didn't have Sean to reign us in - ENJOY!
Lil Uzi Vert - Pink Tape (Review)
This episode, we review the latest offering from Lil Uzi Vert, the Pink Tape. Tune in to hear how we feel about this project, and our thoughts on Uzi's status among his generation. There's no denying his numbers, but what do we think about the quality of his music?
