Surf or Drown

Hit-Boy built an untouchable resume based on chameleonic production abilities to craft hits for Ye, JAY-Z, Drake, and Nipsey Hussle, finding success with varying styles. But on his 2012 solo cut “Jay-Z Interview,” he showed that he’s a capable rapper as well. Lately, he’s focused less on singles and more on zoning in with artists he respects: In the past three years alone, he’s produced entire albums for Benny the Butcher, Dreezy, Pacman da Gunman, and Musiq Soulchild and an impressive four LPs and counting with Nas. His solo album *SURF OR DROWN* continues to get the best out of his collaborators: “The Tide” and “CORSA” feature shining performances by Nas and DOM KENNEDY, with contrasting sped-up soul samples and ephemeral vibes. But he continues to impress as a rapper as well: He confidently trades bars with the elite MCs he enlists, and brings a surprising amount of lyrical balance. He challenges other producers on “Slipping Into Darkness,” laments the relentless cycle of death in hip-hop on “Just Ask,” and uses the sprawling album closer “Composure, Pt. 2” to speak about old issues with his former G.O.O.D. Music boss Ye and the impact of his father’s incarceration. Hit-Boy doesn’t only draw greatness out of others—he has something to say himself, as well.