Joey Bada$$ x B4DA$$ (Before the Money)

Joey Bada$$ x B4DA$$ (Before the Money)
Released: Jan 19, 2015
℗ 2015 Cinematic Music Group / Pro Era

by Alexx Ward
KTSW Music

Joey Bada$$’s B4DA$$ is an instant classic in my eyes. He has evolved since ‘1999’ and ‘Summer Knights’. Again, we see huge improvement in Joey’s flows and music production. B4DA$$  has an underground New York basement feel to it, and the album shows a lot of diversity from songs like  “Paper Trail$”, a very conscious record speaking the truths of life today on a gritty beat, to the upbeat, international jam “Teach Me”. B4DA$$ really shows off Joey’s lyricism and slick word play on the tracks “Hazeus View” and “Christ Conscious”. Joey doesn’t have too many features on this first studio album, which is a good thing for displaying raw skills. The features Joey does have are strong; Action Bronson, BJ the Chicago Kid, Elle Varner, and others make solid appearances on this album and really complete the independent, real hip-hop sound the Pro Era rapper brings. “Like Me” has already been picked as a fan favorite and is also said to have one of the best videos of the year. “Like Me” has a smooth laid back beat with a calm, collected flow from Joey, speaking of hope and prosperity in this world.

This is only the beginning for Joey; his previous mix-tapes have already earned him world-wide tours and international fame. As long as he continues to grow, I’m sure we’ll be hearing from him for years to come.