The combination of Joey Bada$$ and Statik Selektah is starting to feel like an essential part of NYC’s rap diet.
Joey’s energy is kind of expected, being that he is a young cat. However, his work ethic and dedication is that of a seasoned artist who’s wrestled with music industry’s tide. On “Ready”, Joey comes off with the hunger of a young’n and the life experience of a Masta Ace. He’s still comfortably riding the coattails of his latest release B4DA$$, so it’s interesting for him to dive back in so vigorously.
With the performance given on this track, I don’t think anyone can suggest that B4DA$$ was an one off success. Joey clearly has a lot on his mind and a solid direction he wants to follow. “Ready” is heavy hitting, it’s got this kind of bounce that will have you banging your head in a way Busta Rhymes would be proud of. It’s a straight-forward break-your-neck beat, and Joey follows that momentum with precision.
I’m curious to see if Joey’s going to build on this relationship with Statik. Personally, I’d love to see it happen because “Ready” gives me a kind of Gangstarr feel in the chemistry between emcee and producer. Regardless of the future, it’s a great track and you should definitely give it some spins.
art by your homie, Arthur Banach
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