In one of the more exciting collaborations in hip-hop recently, New York trio Flatbush Zombies have paired with UK multi-talent James Blake, whos enigmatic production and signature eerie hums pull the Zombies into uncharted waters. Haunted with a low-frequency pulse, ‘Afterlife’ is balanced by stark and poignant lyrics from the Brooklyn rap crew: “Cause tomorrow ain’t promised when you’re Black/Should I say anybody goin’ through it like I did, skin color hybrid/One false move sendin’ bullets through your cartilage”.

The video that accompanies is a visually unique, x-rayed spin on a classic montage of money, sex, love and drugs. With direction from Arnaud Bresson, it was shot in pre-covid France and uses a negative translation of raw and vivid scenes, taking us into a liminal place as both a viewer and listener. Check it out here. — Ansam F.

Ipswitch, Queensland’s rap supergroup Swish Music return today with another slapper named ‘Blow’. The track features welcome harmonies from DC Ralph, followed by flurries of bars from Swish members AG Supreme, Dau Dau and Showt!me, as well as a standout verse from the collective’s single female artist Unamii, who’s frantic flow and braggadocious delivery take the track a level further. Keep it locked to Swish Music, we have a feeling they are just warming up. — Cass N. 

There’s no denying the hype that Australian groups Planet Vegeta and OneFour have right now, leaving no better time for members of each group to come together and strike the iron while it’s hot, which is exactly what SVNO and J Emz have done on ‘Like We Do’. Joining forces like a West Sydney super duo, they strike up an ear-catching synergy with their contrasting styles as SVNO slides through soulful croons, and J Emz handles the hard-hitting bars.

Amplifying this chemistry is the jangly groove of a guitar line and the bellowing bass of 808s, propelling the single to anthem status. The lyrics of both artists touch on themes of brotherhood and the area they grew up in, with the video further displaying their camaraderie. ‘Like We Do’ is an ode to SVNO and J Emz’ humble beginnings and a one-way-ticket to furthering their success. — Henry O.

Current rap matriarchs Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion have joined forces to give us an uncompromising anthem exploring womanhood, sex and power. ‘WAP’ dropped this afternoon, leading us to channel the big pussy energy that lies in us all. It’s a release bound for virality that comes with iconic artwork, a fresh music video and is packed full of lyrics to remind us we’re that bitch. (I don’t cook, I don’t clean/ But let me tell you I got this ring)

Literally, we just told you there’s a new track with Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion on it why are you still here? Go check out the music video right now! — Ansam F.

Manu Crooks’ musical manifesto is one that’s becoming more familiar by the year. His new single ‘Bastards’ features Manu rapping with intensity, attacking each verse with fiery triplet-flow and tying them together with a gritty, gut-punching hook. With blasting 808s and horror movie-like synths of the beat, courtesy of French producer Sweely, every bar Manu spits is an arrow hitting the bullseye. The accompanying video was filmed in junkyards and abandoned buildings throughout Western Sydney, and features cameos from Cult Shotta, Lil Golo, and OME. — Henry O.

17-year-old Memphis rapper NLE Choppa has just dropped his debut album Top Shotta. It’s been a huge 18-months since his certified-platinum breakout release ’Shotta Flow’, surpassing over 3 billion streams and pumping out hits as fast as he can get new tattoos.

Top Shotta boasts a hefty 20 track line-up with features from the likes of Roddy Ricch and Lil Baby, but it’s ‘Make Em Say’ featuring Atlanta’s Mulatto that has our attention today. With clear chemistry between the two artists, its call-and-response hook is going to be stuck in our heads all weekend. — Cass N.