J. Rawls and DJ Rhettmatic teamed up in February for “Role Reversal,” a record that refuses to be left behind in 2023. It’s a throwback to the classic Soundbombing compilations, with plenty of scratching, hard-hitting beats, and guest appearances that evoke the golden era of hip-hop, all delivered over a tight thirty-two minutes.

Trek Life makes a memorable return on “Play Your Position” alongside Supastition, showcasing their lyrical prowess as they effortlessly ride the drum patterns. The track also features a rare display of turntablism, adding a modern touch to the nostalgic vibe of the record. “Doty X & The Sen” sees El Da Sensei and Sadat X joining forces, their impeccable chemistry reminding listeners of their underrated talents. Craig G delivers a standout performance on the title track, showcasing his precise flow over a soulful backdrop of horns and drums.

Despite its somewhat peculiar title, “Rawlsmatic” embodies the essence of pure hip-hop. It’s a cohesive project that invites listeners to press play and enjoy from start to finish, without overwhelming them with forced nostalgia. Tracks like the collaboration between Blu and Ras Kass over a gritty Beat Junkies beat serve as a reminder of why we fell in love with rap in the first place.