Some new music for your heatwave-heavy weekend:

Iggy Azalea – In My Defense

Maxo Kream – Brandon Banks

Image credit: Roc Nation

This is a standout: Houston, Texas rapper Maxo Kream follows up Punken with his big label debut Brandon Banks, named so after his father’s criminal past:

“This album is me telling the story of how I’m just like my dad except he was a scammer and I was a trapper… Despite his flaws, he was a great parent, always made sure the rent was paid, made sure I went to school, taught me right from wrong. I wasn’t raised to be a trapper, it just happened because of my circumstances. My relationship with my dad now is great – I used to be terrified of him growing up but now that’s my n***a. We’re like yin and yang.”

Features on the 15-track album include those from Megan Thee Stallion, ScHoolboy Q, Travis Scott and A$AP Ferg. Press play below.

Beyoncé – The Lion King: The Gift

Image credit: Parkwood/Columbia

You might as well just call this a Beyoncé album. King Bey “curated” a Lion King compilation separate from the official soundtrack titled The Gift, which sees 14 tracks and assistance from Mr. Eazi, Burna Boy, Kendrick Lamar, JAY-Z, Childish Gambino, Pharrell, Blue Ivy Carter, Saint JHN, WizKid, Tierra Whack, Tiwa Savage and more. In addition to seeing the film remake, you can press play on The Gift below.

Tinchy Stryder – Change

Image credit: Cloud 9

Following his visual for “Promise,” Grime/UK Rap veteran Tinchy Stryder delivers a new EP titled Change, which sees seven new tracks from the London artist. Also added with the EP is another dope visual for the track “Proper.”

Nas – The Lost Tapes 2

Image credit: Mass Appeal/Def Jam

Welp, some 17 years after the classic Lost Tapes project was released comes its polarizing sequel. Check out Nas‘ 16-track deep The Lost Tapes 2, which features throwaway cuts from Hip-Hop Is Dead, Untitled, Life Is Good and Nasir. Features and production comes from Swizz Beatz, Pharrell Williams, Kanye West, The Alchemist, DJ Toomp, RZA, DJ Khalil, Statik Selektah and more. Press play below.

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#Beyonce #Iggy Azalea #Maxo Kream #Nas #Tinchy Stryder

Posted By

Jon Powell

Currently working as Senior Editor of RESPECT. Magazine, I (Jon Powell) have 10 years experience in digital and print media -- this includes writing, photography and video editing production. I have worked extensively in Washington, D.C. and London, England and specialise in urban music and culture.