Belleville, New Jersey emcee and producer Action Figure 973 is celebrating his born day with the release of Souled Out, his 14th project. As he continues to build a prolific discography, Souled Out serves as a testament to his growth as a skilled artist who balances his unique persona with a sharp lyrical focus. Following his debut full-length DOOM Was Right and a string of successful EPs like Polo Grounds, this latest release captures the essence of his recent travels to London and Paris.
The EP opens with the titular intro and the drumless, soulful track “8 Hour Paris Flight,” which sets a reflective tone by discussing his ambitions beyond domestic borders. This is followed by “London Traffic,” a track that highlights the vitality and dedication he brings to his craft. The project also features “William Regal,” a clever nod to the legendary professional wrestler and WWE executive, showcasing the artist’s penchant for sports-entertainment references.
The second half of the project maintains its momentum with “Eyeful,” which leans heavily into soul sampling. The track pays homage to the iconic Ric Flair, leading into the poignant “Ashley Massaro,” a tribute to the late WWE diva that addresses her tragic history and the complexities of her legacy. The EP concludes with “No Fly Tipping” and the final track “Flight Home,” which uses a crooning soul sample to warn the rap game that Action Figure 973 is far from finished, promising more music before the end of 2026.
Souled Out continues the trajectory established by Polo Grounds, offering a fresh perspective for listeners who appreciate soulful production and narrative-driven hip hop. With his claims of upcoming symbolic output, Action Figure 973 remains an artist to watch closely for the remainder of the year.
Score: 7/10