Lynn, Massachusetts emcee and producer Estee Nack has long been a fixture of the underground hip-hop scene. Since his breakout as a member of the Tragic Allies and his Purpose-produced solo debut, 14 Forms: The Book of Estee Nack, he has cultivated an expansive and highly respected discography. From his collaborations with al.divino to his work with Griselda Records, Nack has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre. However, the announcement that Cookin’ Soul would be handling full production duties for his latest project, Al-Andalus, set a high bar—one that the duo clears with ease.
The album opens with “Santeria,” a track that sets a luxurious, mafioso tone with a classic boom-bap aesthetic. Nack’s lyrical focus remains sharp, detailing the grind of the streets with a poetic intensity. This is followed by “Inbound,” which pivots to a funkier instrumental backdrop, allowing Nack to explore the nuances of the gangsta lifestyle. The progression continues with “La Bomba,” which leans into jazz-infused production, and “Touchin’ Base,” a gritty, high-energy track that highlights Nack’s prowess in the realm of coke rap.
Midway through the project, the energy remains consistent. “Telex Free Trap,” featuring Yung Beef, offers a bilingually jazzy soundscape, while “More or Less” doubles down on the boom-bap roots that define the album’s core. A standout moment arrives with “Bread & Wine,” featuring Lil Supa, where the chemistry between the artists is palpable. The album also draws thematic inspiration from literature, with “Carlito’s Way” paying homage to the classic Edwin Torres novel.
As the project winds down, “Hear Me” serves as a reflective piece on overcoming adversity, while “La Poli” offers a scathing critique of law enforcement. The album concludes with “Ghost in the Lab,” featuring a stellar guest appearance from Planet Asia, who delivers a verse that demands attention and cements the project’s status as a top-tier release.
Al-Andalus is a testament to the synergy between Estee Nack and Cookin’ Soul. By blending superb boom-bap production with Nack’s signature lyrical grit, they have crafted what is arguably one of the most essential hip-hop albums of the year.
Score: 8/10