Next to Nothing (Deluxe Edition)

The two qualities that keep Rittz relevant are his blinding technical ability and his emotional honesty. Where the fast-rap theatrics of someone like Twista reflect the slickness of city life, *Next to Nothing* is proudly country. That’s not to say it’s conservative. “Turn Down,” “In My Zone,” and “Crown Royal” envelope the listener in sheets of glistening electronic sound, but Rittz’s down-to-earth persona keeps the record rooted in real-life struggle. Few rappers can unleash such complicated rhymes and remain relaxed. Even at its most intense, *Next to Nothing* makes for a strangely soothing and frequently hypnotic listening experience.