Honorable Mention: Noname – Telefone
Released: August 1st, 2016
Must Listen: Casket Pretty
Noname Gypsy, who with the release of her debut tape now simply goes by Noname delivered an amazing project at the top of the month. You probably know her from countless verses with the likes of Chance The Rapper, a loosie here and there and so forth. So what could the Chicago native really do on a full project on her own? She could shine, and that’s exactly what she does for 30 minutes. She enlists a unique team of people to feature on the tape that includes TheMIND, Raury, Cam O’bi, Saba and few others. She’s the real star though, and it’s clear.
She explores Chicago violence on “Casket Pretty” and talks about the self-esteem of black women on more than a few records but none quite like “Reality Check.” Her beats mesh with her topics and voice perfectly often infusing xylophones, pianos, snaps and other light instruments, such as a baby talking.
She’s very passionate about Chicago as most Chicago artists are, and falls perfectly in line with the likes of Chance The Rapper, Chief Keef and more who all speak on the city in different ways. Telefone is her way of speaking on it, and we should all listen.