[junkie-dropcap]I[/junkie-dropcap]’m not opposed to joint projects, but I’m typically not a fan of them. Unless there’s a recipe that works, but it’s up to the artists to determine the quality of that chemistry. Some of the best music ever released stem from these types of projects. Such as Most Def and Talib’s “Black Star” LP released in 1998. Drake and Future’s “What A Time To Be Alive” that dropped in 2015 to the critically acclaimed “Watch the Trone” LP offered by none other than JAY-Z and Kanye West. So there’s no shortage of quality records coming off these dual-faced projects.
The complete contrast in personalities between two artists makes for an interesting yet satisfying blend of styles. This holds true in with the courtesy of Half-A-Mil duo comprising Grammy Award Winning producer Hit-Boy and beloved Los Angeles rapper DOM KENNEDY. The pair initially teamed up a few years back, subsequently releasing three separate EPs throughout 2016 and 2017. The two then released their debut studio album as a pair in 2017 dubbed, Courtesy of Half-A-Mil.
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Their latest offering “Also Known As” is the culmination of all the hard work these two have put in over the years. For those unaware, Hit-Boy is a producer known for working with Nipsey Hussle, Jay-Z, Kanye, Drake, Beyoncé, and many more. Earlier this year he won the Grammy for Best Rap Performance for Roddy Ricch’s Nipsey Hussle featured single “Racks in the Middle.” So, the first thing you’ll notice about Half-A-Mil is the quality of the production that goes into their work. These two have some of the best production I’ve heard in years. Hit-Boy has his hand in a majority of the production but calls on other top-tier producers such as JohnG Beats, Trap Addictz and many more to help shape the project sonically.
And if you’re unfamiliar of the contributions of DOM KENNEDY. The man is a staple in the underground L.A. rap scene. Known for his laid back flow and pioneering the independent rap movement during the past decade. He’s one of the late Nipsey Hussle’s closest friends and has worked with Nip and artists such as Ty Dolla Sign, Skeme, Kehlani and many more. Releasing all his projects under his own label, The Other Peoples Money Company. Acclaimed projects, like 2010s From the Westside with Love and his stellar 2013 LP Get Home Safely, which is one of our favorites.
So naturally you’d expect the project to hold plenty of weight with the accolades these two hold. Well, we’re happy to report that “Also Known As” is no exception. From top to bottom this 11-track project straight slaps. From top to bottom the duo seem to make an explicit statement on where they stand within the hip hop scene. Backed by heavy-hitting production and DOM KENNEDY’s signature flow. The recipe just works. For instance, the first cut on the project “Offline” starts with a soundbite from the late Nipsey Hussle discussing the clear contrast between the real and fake. Immediately afterward, Hit-Boy kicks things off with scathing verse.
“Keepin’ my business offline/Paid all my dues and paid all my ties/Wavy, no stoppin’ at tide/Pushin’ it forward with vision this time.”
Three of my favorite tracks, “Intersection”, “Contribute” and “Good Luck” are the two at their best. The consistency makes this project an easy listen. All while setting the tone that there’s no competition in this space, yet the laid back nature of the album is a refined victory lap for the two. Just listen to “We Blessed” to understand this narrative. The production is a feel good, anthemic record with DOM KENNEDY in his bag. Coming for any and everyone willing to test the waters.
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“Also Known As” only features three artists. DOM and Hit tap on 03 Greedo, and 24hrs. The most notable feature comes from Nas on “City on Lock”. This song is just a *chefs kiss* sonically. The flute-ladened sample plays throughout the entire record and features the hip hop legend exclusively on the hook. All while Hit-Boy and DOM KENNEDY drop impressive lyrically sound verses. Their raps appear effortless and focused throughout the record. I’d expect this caliber of rap on a cut with Nas on it. Although not surprised, I’m pleasantly engaged. Let’s not even talk about the vibes on “The Return”. The production, courtesy of Trap Addictz takes center stage. While Hit-Boy once again showcases his growth as a lyricist. Proving, he’s far more dedicated than most rappers pushing a pen.
You may not have heard the previous offerings from Half-A-Mil, and if you haven’t, I humbly suggest that you get familiar. I have nothing bad to say about this album. The execution, masterful in its approach. The production is top-tier. This is what you I call true collaboration. You hear the dedication and time put into the album. We’re watching a dynamic duo at their prime, moving the needle, waiting for the rap world to catch up.
