1. Tree – The MCTreeG EP
Rap game Louis Armstrong. Like his Chicago compatriot Chance the Rapper, Tree has a voice that may take some time to get used to. When Tree’s last mixtape Sunday School II: When Church Lets Out was released last May I slept on it hard. I really didn’t get the hype. I almost passed on The MCTreeG EP too, but after watching the video for “Like Woah” I started to figure out the appeal, and before long I was hooked. Tree sounds like he’s taking the pain and joy of Chicago and filtering his voice through it. Whether he’s crooning or spitting, Tree used this tape to establish himself as one of the most compelling and soulful rappers working. (Download)
2. Don Trip – Randy Savage
After Don Trip and Starlito spent the last couple of years building up rap game hype off the strength of two Step Brothers albums and a national tour, they have been continuing their hot streak with solo tapes. Last month, Starlito won Mixtape of the Month honors in this column for his Insomnia Addict tape. This month, Don Trip comes correct with Randy Savage. Most rappers who tell great stories aren’t great shit-talkers, and most great shit-talkers can’t spit a cohesive story. Trip is the rare rapper who can do both well. (Download)
3. 2$ Fabo – We Amongst U
Remember Fabo? He’s back, he’s now calling himself 2$ Fabo (I have no idea why), and he’s released an insane mixtape out of nowhere. We Amongst U is an unhinged, sprawling 22-track monster. Fabo raps like his life is at stake. If you’re in doubt at all about this tape, just listen to this track. Just when I think the rap game is getting predictable, someone from D4L makes an unstoppably energetic mixtape. What’s next, a Dem Franchize Boyz comeback? (Download)