Killer Mike

Atlanta, GA rapper Killer Mike finally recorded his classic album over ten years into his career. Produced entirely by underground auteur El-P, Ice Cube's Amerikkka's Most Wanted is a perfect parallel for the former Outkast associate's sixth album, R.A.P. Music: respected regional star links with raucously experimental NYC producer (Bomb Squad in Cube's case, El-P in Mike's). Cameos are legends only: Bun B and T.I. spew venom on "Big Beast," while El-P joins Mike for the dystopian crunk on "Butane (Champion's Anthem)." El's masterful production encompasses Public Enemy-styled bangers like "Go!" and "Don't Die," the haunted elegy of "Anywhere But Here" and the churchy space grandiosity of the title track. Lyrically, Mike has never been more agile, emotive or insightful, narrating issues both political ("Reagan," "Anywhere But Here") and personal ("Untitled" and "William Burke Sherwood," which is dedicated to his grandfather) with the same eloquence, ferocity and unwavering sincerity. If you care about rap music, you should own R.A.P. Music. The wraith of Ice Cube's Jheri curl compels you.