Detroit veteran Boldy James links up with maestro Williams for his 7th EP. He's been breaking out in Fall 2013 since his Alchemist debut M.1.CS (My 1st Chemistry Set). He later went on to be signed to Nas' independent label Mass Appeal Records for a short time before it was locked out, but once Boldy returned home, Uncle Al would help him get his name out there again when he went out, leaving the Intense EP around Christmas 2019 and second album after The price of tea in China early last year. This was followed by Sterling Toles produced Manger to McNichols which was just as fantastic, but with the support of Griselda Records Versace movie The EP was a little disappointing given how rushed it was. Bo Jackson although it would become his most acclaimed work to date and Super Tecmo Bo was almost as great for an EP despite IceColdBishop's verse on “Hot Water Tank”. Fair Exchange Not Robbery produced by Nicholas Craven became one of his most acclaimed works to date Leadership penalty got over it & Mr. 10-08 Futurewave production is also up there, so hearing that Conductor produced Beyond the tracks it sounded like an exciting idea on paper.
“Terms & Services” opens with a soulful boom-bat saying that the first brick he's ever touched is the worst, while “All Madden” with Bo Jack takes a cloudier approach by referring to themselves as the real apex predators. “Flying Trapeze Act” brings back the soul-bending samples the way his young bodies grab bodies leading into “The Ol' Switcharoo” worryingly talking about his vertigo-inducing all-nighters.
Meanwhile, on “Undisputed”, we have the maestro playing more of a snare sound so Boldy reminds everyone he got the mix right just before “Lamp Shade” goes drumless saying they're coming to confiscate his onions sooner rather than later. “St. Juliana” soulfully moves on from there staying 2 commas in & 7 digits strong but then “Permission” with Double D continues sampling saying you needed the ok from them to succeed.
“Offwhite Lumberjack” closes Across the Tracks on some lo-fi rap rock nonsense, acknowledging that he's been beaten in the head since Tonya was taken from him before “Stamps in the Middle” concludes the EP that jumps from above. with victorious horns talking gray squares holding the stamps dead in their midst and comparing the Cuban on his neck to that of a whole trophy made of diamonds.
Boldy already posted a top 10 album of 2024 Leadership penalty right when he started and now he's finished the first half of the year by releasing an EP that's just as enjoyable. Its lyricism is more raw than the personal themes of the previous LP, and maestro Williams' position as one of the most sought-after producers in hip-hop today, as well as a standout member of Griselda's production trio, The Heartbreakers, is reaffirmed that showcases its range.
Rating: 9/10
