Is Brooklyn in the house? After killing it in the mixtape circuit, Brooklyn's own Joey BadaSS finally steps out with his official debut album, B4.Da.$$. Here the 19-year old BK emcee lays down smart raps informed by classic NYC hip-hop, which is both refreshing and nostalgic - and honestly what we need right now. The beats are handled by a literal dream team of producers including DJ Premier, J Dilla, The Roots, Hit Boy, Statik Selektah, and his Pro Era cohorts Chuck Strangers and Kirk Knight. The whole thing plays out like a future classic from start to finish, with guest spots from Action Bronson, BJ the Chicago Kid, and more. Will Joey Bada$$ be the next great NY MC? Only time will tell, but B4.Da.$$ is sure to keep old heads and youngins alike steady head noddin' till we find out. 17 tracks in gatefold sleeve with free mp3 download. Recommended.

• black double vinyl pressing
  
• housed in gatefold sleeve
• original release year: 2014
• music label: Pro Era 2022

reviewed by Buck Strickland 01/2015