Best of the Month is decided by a number of different variables; voter counts from preceding posts, reader reaction ratings, gut feelings, and lots and lots of heated discussions.
Album of the Month
CyHi the Prynce has often been heralded as the ‘second coming’ by a lot of so-called ‘real’ rap fans and while we don’t agree with those assertions, it’s easy to see why they could get lost in hyperbole – his lyricism is impeccable. While he may have never made it as big as some of his label mates (yet), chances are you’ve been hearing his genius in one way or another and not even realizing it due to his role as a ghostwriter. There was no questions about his abilities as an MC but there were serious concerns about his ability to put out a captivating project apart from his penmanship and whether or not that project would ever even see the light of the day. Well with No Dope on Sundays he resoundingly answered both questions with an emphatic YES. Though it wasn’t perfect, it did show why people were so high on him and was potentially the spark he needed to really take his career to the next level.
Runner-ups
Trailer of the Month
As cliche and mainstream as this pick may seem, it was virtually impossible to pick against something we’ve been waiting for for so long now. The Marvel Cinematic Universe officially kicked off almost 9 years ago with Downey’s uncanny take as the Iron Man, and every film and new character introduction since then has all been in build up for what will essentially be the biggest moment in all of comic book history. The trailer for Avengers: Infinity War is essentially every comic book nerd’s wet dream, full of dream team ups and clashes that at one time not too long ago only seemed feasible in the pages of a comic book. But alas, here we are picking our jaws up off the floor and the hype and anticipation for this movie and what hopefully looks like Marvel’s first truly badass villain is real. Say what you want about Marvel and Disney, but god damn can they make a trailer.
Runner-ups
Video of the Month
As technically simple the video for Joyner Lucas’ “I’m Not Racist” is, it gets the nod for video of the month for the sheer impact it’s had. If you hadn’t heard of Joyner Lucas before, I bet you have now. With over 31 millions views it’s been a certified sensation and one that’s created a lot of conversation about not only the video, but the song’s message. Whether you agree with what’s said or not, it’s impossible not to have some sort of opinion about it. It’s divisive in the best way possible, creating conversations that otherwise wouldn’t have been had. And for us, that’s the real sign of good art.
Runner-ups