Chicago’s own rap marvel, Chance The Rapper, released his highly anticipated sophomore mixtape Acid Rap yesterday.

The 20 year-old’s thirteen track project exhibits a young rap prodigy in the making.  Chance showcases his developments as a rapper and musician through his introspective lyricism, musical range, and vocal versatility which provides us with the evidence that he is not just a fluke. Chance draws influences from the sadly forgotten but true Chicago artistry – jazz, soul, and percussion. He is an old soul, in a new school and quite possibly the next big thing to come out of Chicago, since dare I say [Kanye West].  Acid Rap features guest appearances from Ab-Soul, Action Bronson, Childish Gambino, Twista, and more.  And although this mixtape sounds like album material, Chance is just charging mouse clicks.

Chance The Rapper is well on his way to becoming one of the biggest hip-hop acts this year and he is doing it his way – by putting Chicago on his back.

Standout tracks include:

“Good Ass Intro (featuring BJ The Chicago Kid, Lili K, & Kiara Lianer)”

This track picks up where his freshman mixtape, 10 Day, left off – a melodious blend of soul and smooth rhythms that have become his signature sound. Shout out to this track for being 100% Chicago, featuring all local talent.

“Pusha Man (featuring Nate Fox & Lili K)”

Chano has soul. This becomes increasingly evident as Acid Rap unfolds but you get a real feel on this track which features a sample from Curtis Mayfield’s “Pusher Man.” This cut is essentially two songs meshed into one long, groovy session. Part one being upbeat and soulful and part two featuring the sweetest bridge on the mixtape – enjoy.

“Smoke Again (featuring Ab-Soul)”

“Nana (featuring Action Bronson)”

A sonically impressive beat mashed with an interesting flow and even more interesting ad-libs.  Dare I even say some heavy Jamiroquai influences? Queens boy Action Bronson gets down as well. Take a listen, you’ll enjoy that.

“Juice”

Get with the Chi-City movement. Download Acid Rap here.