One of my favorite trends that have came up in the last few years, has been Producers dropping compilation albums. Projects from DJ Mustard, DJ Khaled and more have pushed collaborations into areas that we may have not seen otherwise. We’re all profoundly aware of the fact that producers carried the whole genre for parts of last decade, so it’s only right that they’ve gotten some individual shine as well. Looking to expand on this idea early in the decade, rising producer, Popstar Benny recruits a Who’s Who? of buzzing ATLiens for his infectious new project, 2020.
Consisting of 8-tracks, 2020 is an interesting exploration of the different sounds that are consuming underground Atlanta Hip-Hop, right now. Featuring contributions from Kenny Mason, Jelani Imani, Wiley From Atlanta and more, the project relies heavily on melody–calling on an array of sounds such as video game samples, distorted chimes and a bunch of other experimental additions that make this whole EP feel like a ride in a trippy anime. Sticking out among the rest of the tracks, “What U Seen,” is probably the best example of this. Utilizing verses from Kenny Mason, Jelani Imani and David The Tragic–which is going to make this collab sound nuts, 5 years from now–Benny co-produces this one with SENSEIATL and completely sets the tone for the rest of the project, which includes a handful of other appealing bangers. Take a listen to the project below and be sure to get familiar with Popstar Benny.
