Chillin' hip-hop heads! I hope you guys are ready to receive a hefty dose of saltiness, because Chino XL's highly anticipated third posthumous album called *Ascen7ion* is here to rock the scene. This release comes bang on with seven tracks brimming with the lyrical genius and raw emotion that Chino was known for.
We kick off with "SHOTS THROUGH YA VEHICLE." The opening immediately sets the tone with a dope statement, "fuck everyone, respectfully." From there, Chino pops right in, with his signature lightning-fast flow and sharp lyrics. It's clear that Chino has still salted the game and assertively claims his dominance.
Then we dive deeper with "ALWAYS THERE...," a track where you feel Chino's deep pain and mental struggles. It's real talk about the tension between being a loving father and the inner demons he fights with. This track grabs you by the throat with its sincere and poetic power.
Then we have "WE JUST SPIT BARS," where Chino shares the mic with Canibus. No explanation is needed here, as this track is one big lyrical party. Canibus knocks on the door first by putting himself and Chino down as the best, before demolishing the beat with rock-hard verses.
"STREET CRUCIFIXION" may be seen as a raw reminder of that OG street vibe of underground mixtape bangers. It's that grit that reaffirms Chino's place in hip-hop history.
And then "LINDA," featuring Sincerely Collins, and "DO YOU HEAR?" featuring the legendary MC Lyte and J Lee. These tracks are full of clever wordplay and rich symbolism, and show how flexible Chino's style is; from emotional depth to intellectual edginess, he has found that balance.
As a banging finale comes "THE TEMPEST." Here Chino unleashes a lycra storm and explains why he himself embodies that "tempest," while juxtaposing that contrast nicely with Shakespeare's original play. It is a masterful conclusion to an epic project that shows his identity and mastery.
*Ascen7ion* is produced by Anno Domini and Johnny Slash, among others, and is being released exclusively physically as part of a 3-disc pack via 1332 Records. Can you believe? Fans will also be salted by future projects in collaboration with Dheezy Hallow and Stu Bangas, among others.
It is with great sadness that we said goodbye to the legend Chino XL on July 28, 2024. His impact lives on through his music and the memories he leaves with his family, friends and loved ones.
So keep your ears open for those next salty releases and keep the vibes alive; Chino XL may no longer be with us physically, but his influence will always live on.
Stay fresh, stay salty, and remember that if you or someone you know is struggling, there is always help at 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. No one is alone!
Salty greetings, Keep it salty!
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