There's something special to me when I hear greatness from artists from my hometown of Queens. It's a different, undeniable and unmistakable energy that begins to exude mainly because... well... QGTM. But even if you aren't from the town, and understand the lingo (or that abbreviation), Queens native X-YLE can teach you the ways. And this is the definition of why Just For U stands out as a ode to the boro I call home.
Initially impressed with his lyricism on a feature on Kony Brooks album, I was already expecting a complete bar heavy 10-track project and was I surely mistaken. From hearing remnants of 50 Cent on "I Know" which felt like the perfect intro to this project to driving the Grand Central in the Summer vibe of "VVS" that thoroughly made me enjoy this EP.
But we cannot past a review without mentioning the impressive balance this project brought. You wanna hit the clubs? Then crank the Jersey Club booming "Up and Down" featuring the underrated king of the hooks, Teddy Grahams. You enjoy samples? Then enjoy how "Hey Renee" flipped a classic hood love story into a modern tale of 'boy meets girl' from the block. You want sex with a little Southside? Then "Do It To Me" featuring the always uber-impressive Jai Emm serenading the bedroom.
For years on the outside looking in, I have been a admirer of X-YLE. Between his hustle, grit, and focus, it sucks that it took me this long to truly become a fan. It's why "Make It Happen" was on repeat on my Apple Music heading to work this morning. But as they say better late than never.
There's no denying his place in the game, but for X-YLE, if this is the start of a momentous 2024... you've all been warned.
- DJ Mainstream
X-YLE: Just For U
Apple Music | Spotify | Amazon
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