5 Great Rap Albums You May Have Missed in 2021

Last week we shouted out five underappreciated R&B albums in 2021.

It’s only fair that we give hip-hop some love.

I mentioned last week that I thought R&B fans were being too hard on this year’s releases – while there have been a lack of high-profile releases (outside of Silk Sonic and a couple others) we’ve still been blessed with more than a few quality albums. It just takes a little digging to find them.

But in the world of hip-hop, things are a bit more mixed. Sure, there have been some great albums from big names like Nas, J. Cole and Tyler, the Creator, there have been just as many high-profile duds, with Drake, Kanye West, Young Thug, Meek Mill and more joining in the disappointment parade.

But there’s hope! Let’s look back at five releases that I haven’t had a chance to review here on Soul In Stereo but have had made a home on my playlists.

Vince Staples, Vince Staples

Vince’s self-titled surprise album is minimalistic in all the best ways. Ten tracks. Twenty minute runtime. Reserved yet impactful production from Kenny Beats. And, of course, visceral bars from the master of ceremonies himself. Most tracks are barely two and half minutes, but work much better in the context of the album than as loosies. Together, they make a fun blend of off-beat shenanigans and blunt realism. It might not be the overall crowd pleaser that his last album FM was, but you can’t deny Vince’s artistry.

Boldy James & Alchemist, Bo Jackson

I get that Boldy can be an acquired taste, mostly thanks to his methodical flow. But with Alchemist behind the boards, there’s no need to fear. The duo have incredible chemistry, and that continues to be evident here, Boldy’s best record to date. Boldy’s top-notch storytelling is taken to new levels thanks to Alchemist’s willingness to experiment with production. It’s not the constant boom-bap showcase you might expect – Alcehmist’s beat selection keeps your ear guessing while Boldy hooks you with every intricate tale he weaves. If you haven’t gotten the Boldy hype yet, this is the album that likely will hook you for good.

Skyzoo, All the Brilliant Things

It’s pretty amazing, and quite frustrating, that an artist with a 15 year career and loads of excellent albums still isn’t a recognizable name. But what Skyzoo lacks in props, he more than makes up for it with an unflappable consistency. All the Brilliant Things isn’t back to back BANGERZ, it’s a jazzy, thoughtful release that highlight’s Sky’s impeccable flow. Seriously, while his peers sound like they’re reading their bars from the Notes app in their phone, his effortless delivery elevates every track. This guy, and this album, is too good to be ignored.

Dave East & Harry Fraud, Hoffa

I’m a big fan of Dave East but, honestly, I haven’t always been a big fan of his releases, which tend to be a little on the uneven side. That’s why Harry Fraud gets major props for Hoffa, providing Dave with the focus and consistency that some of his other projects lacked. Fraud’s production is a perfect fit for Dave’s trademark crime sprees and introspective cuts. East sounds like he’s regained his hunger on this one, and Harry Fraud definitely should be in the convo for one of the year’s standout producers.

Westside Gunn, Hitler Wears Hermes 8: Sincerely Adolf/Side B

2021 has been the year of Griselda, with its members and even their associates invading this year’s Top 50 albums list like the NWO in 1996. While the Hitler Wears Hermes Part 1 was decent but largely forgettable, the sequel elevates everything – stronger production, more notable guest stars, and a renewed focus from Griselda’s most eccentric star. It definitely feels like a content dump at times but hey, when the content is this good I’m willing to make exceptions.

What hidden gems have gotten you through 2021? Let us know below.