Few producers in the game boast similar originality and creativity, which makes Invite the Light a refreshing new album for 2015 and beyond.

Forever grants a mirror into Phife’s soul in the post-ATCQ breakup years. His musings on the importance of family and dedication to those around him, draped in a tight cloak of agile raps that could act as the standard for any era, exist as a timeless sendoff fitting for a legend.

Two Eleven, while a well-crafted and produced album, falls short by comeback standards.

A conscionable affair from start to finish, it’s a reminder of Future’s effortless ability to release solid tracks within his wheelhouse.

The album captures a swath of moods and tastes, and Black Milk’s lyrics are both imaginative and well-executed. The production is on the money, and he continues to make big strides lyrically.

On GRIP, the singer-songwriter has a voracious appetite to be loved, but equally apparent is his capacity to give love, too. This is an album of romance and sexuality, but in these general terms is a symphony of emotions and feelings.

EarthGang are rapping and harmonizing the sights and sound that make up the musical hubs’ cultural and social-economical tapestry. This isn’t a new Outkast. This is a new Atlanta.

Aside from the lack of significant risk-taking, Teyana Taylor generated a debut album that is honest and well produced. And while she takes absolutely no risks on the album, and her vocal range is limited, she never strays from what she does well.

And the Anonymous Nobody is an album that, though lacking in congruence, displays De La’s staying power.

Keith has built an entire career on his abstract, stream-of-consciousness rhymes, which scream loudly throughout the 11-track project. ... An undeniably intriguing affair.

Overall, it works and is another jewel in her crown — one that she, overall, can be proud to call hers.

It Was Good Until It Wasn’t‘s back half will earn respect from core fans for its consistency, muddling the notion Kehlani played it safe with this one.

The album doesn’t move the needle for Guwop’s creative progression forward and at times sounds as if it doesn’t even aspire to. In a nutshell, Mr. Davis is simply a party celebrating Gucci’s personal growth alongside his star-studded friends.

6pc Hot offers different shades of 6LACK, and if the flavors not always perfect, it’s never bland.

Take it or leave it, Wise Up Ghost is great.

He doesn’t dazzle with sinewy flows or clever melodies; he spits what’s on his mind and trusts it will resonate. It definitely resonates on Beyond Bulletproof, due to his transparent lens and well-suited production. Chalk it up as a victory for Sacramento’s lyrical champion.

The Hamilton Mixtape is an enthralling musical journey through American history that manages to stay relevant to our country’s turbulent political landscape.

Layers is an album of tremendous depth and skill, and shines a light on Royce 5’9” as multifaceted artist.

While underground Hip Hop peers such as Cage and Zion I have struggled in their efforts to expand genres, one of Ohio's best widens his scope with a fiery intensity and a welcomed sound.

In the end, Marci Beaucoup is a nice victory lap that falls just short of Reloaded.

When an object in motion has been in as much motion as Kelis has been in the past four years, finding rest in soulful vibes and plaintive melodies, an album that invites rest for the artist as much as it does the listener is a welcomed, intriguing and appreciated listen.

It’s powered by honesty that goes beyond any titles fans have come to associate with the venerable spitter. In a career that’s stretched more than 20 years, Michael sees Mike as his most honest self, and it’s his most comfortable role yet.

A frustrating project that falls short of its composer’s talent.

Longtime fans will enjoy and support the album justly, but it will be understandably missed or ignored by many.

Die-hard Funk Volume supporters get everything they want and more with Knock Madness.... But casual fans and savvier listeners may ultimately find Hop’s latest frustrating.

Yes, New Blue Sun is receiving a healthy amount of praise because it’s André 3000, but it’s also a truly wonderful piece of music.

Free Will is a solid project worth the spins but misses the opportunity to deliver a career-defining album by not having the personal touch that’s needed in his discography.

From out the gate, it comes as no surprise that the strongest material on the 18-track audio excursion is centered around Cole.