And even that opinion may rise a little with repeated listens.

Royce just sounds really comfortable and open on all these songs, shows how much he's matured lyrically over the last several years. Premier sounds revitalized too; I think using the Adrian Younge samples didn't only challenge him in a good way, but it also gives the beats a more cinematic feel to them.

But honestly, the most gratifying part of this album to me is seeing all these guest appearances. Not because their verses are the ones that stand out, but because after seeing Royce have so few collaborations on his solo projects, it's dope to see him hold his own along so many rappers I'm rocking with. If I were to make an ideal list of rappers for Royce to rap with, this album already has most of who I would list.