It has already been made very clear that elite lyricism is required to be a member of Griselda Records. Westside Gunn, Conway The Machine and Benny The Butcher's solo discographies have proven this and their recent collaborative effort, What Would Chinegun Do, did too. They deal in grimy street raps and deliver them in intricate detail. Each of the rappers bring a distinct voice to the Buffalo-bred crew.
Griselda's doors don't open for anyone, but they did for Boldy James. He may hail from Detroit, rather than Buffalo, but he has definitely displayed his masterful bars over the years. His latest release, The Price of Tea in China - a collaborative album with The Alchemist - is being praised as one of the best rap albums of the year so far. It's all the evidence you need to determine that Boldy James is worthy of joining Griselda.
Boldy is currently serving as the opener on Griselda's North American tour and at the stop in his hometown on February 26, it was announced to the crowd that he will be signing to Griselda Records. Westside Gunn delivered the exciting news and also revealed that he will be executive producing Boldy's next project. There are no details yet for when we can expect it to drop, but keep your eyes peeled.
Alchemist & Boldy James Share "The Price Of Tea In China" Tracklist
Boldy & Uncle Alc are coming to town.
Alchemist continues to solidify himself as the most prolific producer in the game. If not the number one, he’s up there. The legendary beatmaker and occasional rapper never stops working, and now he’s linked up with Boldy James for yet another collaborative effort. Picking up where last year’s Boldface (not to be confused with Blueface) EP aperitif left off, the pair have unveiled further details about their upcoming album The Price Of Tea In China.
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Drawing inspiration from an old idiom suggesting an irrelevant point, the project features esteemed lyricists in supporting roles; look for Vince Staples, Benny The Butcher (who seems to be widely recognized by fellow verbal elites), Freddie Gibbs, and Evidence. Yet it’s Boldy himself, and possible Alchemist with the occasional verse, who will be carrying the torch the majority of the way. And for that reason, it’s clear we’re in good hands.
Check out the full tracklist and Kei Imazu-laced cover artwork below, and look for The Price Of Tea In China to land on February 7th.
1. “Carruth”
2. “Giant Slide”
3. “Surf & Turf” f. Vince Staples
4. “Run-Ins”
5. “Scrape the Bowl” f. Benny the Butcher
6. “Pinto”
7. “Slow Roll”
8. “S.N.O.R.T.” f. Freddie Gibbs
9. “Grey October” f. Evidence
10. “Mustard”
11. “Speed Demon Freestyle”
12. “Phone Bill”
