From a glance, the members of HP Boyz (hp.onit, hp.yj and hp.mways) resemble many pass-the-mic rap trios—all grimy rhymes set over clattering beats stuffed into hoodies and goose downs. What sets them apart is a verbal athleticism that allows HP Boyz to elevate and shape-shift, yet stay on brand. “Enemies” sets an aggressive tone, sending kites to competitors: You don’t want the smoke. “Get 2 The Bag” and “Block Party” fly a drone over their Hampton Park block, capturing the trap and rap games in vivid HD. Yet for all their toughness, they can still finesse a sweet hook: “Eeny Meeny” uses a children’s counting rhyme and makes it sound sinister. “Out Here” flirts with moombahton while guest vocalist Keziah softly kills the hook. “6 To The WORLD” jacks a quiet-storm sample (Gregory Abbott’s “Shake You Down”) as a way to kick their AF1s off and reflect on the grind so far.
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