Lots of folks we’re complaining about the state of NY hip-hop this year but Troy Ave did something about it. New York City is an ode to the 90’s Big Apple aesthetic but with a new millennial twist. This BK boy got big dreams and he’s got a relentless grind to add on to his hometown’s legacy.

They always say you can’t know where you’re going until you know where you’ve been. Fittingly Troy pays homage to his Empire State forefathers on the title track. He shares the spotlight with Raekwon, N.O.R.E. and after quoting Prodigy in his verse, he lets the Mobb Deep MC close the song. Inspired by 50 Cent, Troy also enlists Tony Yayo for the club-friendly “Show Me Love.” Brooklyn-Queens connection, son.

But NYC ain’t guest heavy. Troy carries his own weight and has earned his spot as the man of the hour. “Classic Feel” will have you diddy bopping down the project hallways. Plus, it’s hard not to head nod and zone out to “Cigar Smoke”. The bars here are crispier than four chicken wings from the Chinese spot on the corner. “My style was never determined by mics in The Source/Been fly since dollar fries with ketchup and hot sauce.” Dig in.

Don’t get it twisted, New York hasn’t returned to being the most prominent on the map yet but with Troy leading the pack—things are looking up. You can’t knock his hustle.—YN