This one is quite a polarizing release for the Rap Radar staff. Well fellas whether you like it or not, Acid Rap is the most-acclaimed mixtape of the year. It’s made the Chicago MC, a magazine cover star and the hottest free agent in this business of rap. That’s all pretty good for a kid on his second mixtape.

Paying homage to his hometown, Chance effectively samples a Kanye mixtape interlude on the opening “Good Ass Intro”. Even more appealing is the hidden track found on track two called “Paranoia” where Chance details the drama in his environment: “They murking kids, they murder kids here/Why you think they don’t talk about it?/They deserted us here/Where the fuck is Matt Lauer at?/Somebody get Katie Couric here.”

A few guests appear to help keep things moving. Childish Gambino asserts his acting/MC chops on “Favorite Song.” He says, “As God as my witness, this Will Smith spit real shit.” Action Bronson brings his talents to the stream of conscience song, “NaNa”. Bam Bam boasts, “Introducin, it’s Bronsonlino/With my hair slicked back, I look like Rick Pitino.” And TDE’s Ab-Soul gets nasty on “Smoke Again”: “No doubt like Gwen Stefani’s group/Let me put my mouth where you potty, boo.”

Still Mr. Bennett remains the master of ceremonies as evidenced by “Acid Rain.” Getting his Drizzy Drake on he raps sharply before breaking into song at the end. He sings, “I am a new man, I am sanctified/Oh I am holy, I have been baptized/I have been born again/I am the white light.”

There’s no denying that Chance brought a much-needed burst of new energy to the rap game. Just check the closer “Everything’s Good” to hear him showcase his many styles which I’m sure we’ll be experiencing for at least the next few years to come.—YN