Chino XL’s long-awaited third post-death album Ascen7ion has finally arrived. Following the Bones Map, this 7-track project shows fans expecting from legendary MCs.
The album begins with “Shots through the YA Vehicle”, opening with a bold statement: “Everyone, respect everyone” and immediately launches a quick rhyme. Chino swings, shoots lyrical mirrors and asserts his dominance with complex word games.
“Always there…” dives into deeper emotional realms, addressing hidden pain, struggles for mental health, and personal tensions between being a loving father and fighting the inner devil. The track stands out for its inner introspection, transforming vulnerability into poetic power.
Canibus features “we just spit out the bar,” which is lyrical. Canibus sets the tone by announcing the best (Him Him Him and Chino), both artists destroy beats with cruel verses, showing off their legendary lyrical abilities.
“Crack” provides original, unfiltered energy, reminiscent of classic street mixtape freestyle. The tough atmosphere enhances Chino’s roots in underground hip-hop.
“Linda”, featuring sincere Collins and “Did you hear it?” Features Mc Lyte and J Lee, bringing layered word play and rich symbolism. The balance between these tracks and emotional depth and intellectual clarity further emphasizes the versatility of Chino.
The album ends with “The Tempest,” where Chino unleashes a fast-paced lyrical storm that explains why he is a storm. He contrasts the personal meaning of his title with Shakespeare’s original script and provides a powerful closing ceremony about identity, chaos and mastery.
Ascen7ion’s work comes from Anno Domini, Johnny Slash, Bodybag Ben and Dub Sonata, produced by the executive produced by Matthew “M80” Markoff.
The project is specifically obtained in a physical format and is part of a 3-disc package that includes his previously released post-death albums Dark and Other Colors and Bone Map. It is sold exclusively through 1332 records only.
Not over yet – more Chino XLs are on the way.
coming soon:
Chino XL X Dheezy Hallow – Mantis Chino XL X Stu Bangas – The Carpenter of God 2 Chino XL XL X Dub Sonata – Tempest Chino XL XL X Eckento – Definition of bleeding
stay tuned.
Sadly, the world lost Derek Keith Barbosa on July 28, 2024, known as the Chino XL. His five children, five grandchildren, mother and his former long-term partner survived.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, contact 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone – spirals are always available.
