Harlem, New York emcee UFO Fev continues his prolific run with the release of his 13th overall project, the EP 4 the High. Since his 2020 breakout year, which saw the release of acclaimed collaborations with Statik Selektah, Termanology, and Big Ghost Ltd., Fev has maintained a relentless pace. Following a string of EPs and albums, including Blood on the Bills and Strapped, he has teamed up with producer Machacha to deliver a project that captures the unmistakable grit of New York hip-hop.
The EP opens with the eerie, introspective “Left Lane,” where Fev reflects on his resilience and hustle. He quickly transitions into the boom-bap aesthetic of “Dealin’,” offering a sharp critique of the current state of the streets. The project continues to build momentum with “Levels Up,” a rugged track addressing betrayal and the harsh realities of the game, before “Middle Gates” provides an orchestral conclusion to the first half of the record.
The second act of 4 the High features a notable appearance from Eto on “Us Never Them,” a piano-driven track that sets a militant tone. The energy shifts with “The Palladium,” featuring Red Inf, which leans into a rap-rock sound, followed by the warning-heavy “Saturday Mornings.” The project closes with the drumless, atmospheric “God’s Sincere,” showcasing Fev’s lyrical depth.
4 the High serves as a strategic prelude to Fev’s upcoming 14th studio album, Creatine, which is slated for production by Eto. With Machacha’s consistent, gritty production providing the perfect backdrop, Fev delivers a concise, sub-30-minute experience that reaffirms his place in the modern underground scene.
Score: 8/10
