Maina Doe’s new one, ‘Maybe’, adds dancey drum patterns to a backdrop of reverb-drenched ambience. It’s like you’re busting a move in outer space. The airiness of the production propels Maina’s melodies, which absolutely soar with passion throughout. It reminds us why she is one of the most exciting prospects in the Australian R&B scene right now.

‘BOA’ is Megan Thee Stallion doing what she does best: rapping like the rent is due. It’s a two-and-a-half-minute onslaught of braggadocious bars, trunk-knockin bass, and high-octane energy. There’s some clever sample use here too, coming in the form of Gwen Stefani’s 2004 banger ‘What You Waiting For?’ (they just doin’ sh*t for Tik Tok, Tik Tok) and a 90s video-game-inspired music video to boot.

This new Ghostface Killah feels beautifully vintage. The production transports you to a New York stoop with its boom-bap drums and playful pianos that wouldn’t feel out of place on a Biz Markie album. The veteran combines witty anecdotes and slick lyricism throughout his verses. Even Kanye jumps on for a feature, using his section to spit straight comedy. This track is an instant highlight off of Ghostface Killah’s new album Set The Tone (Guns & Roses), which you can stream now.

Ice Spice is spitting on ‘Gimme A Light’. She sounds amped up, almost shouting her way through a quickfire frenzy of braggadocious bars. The production pairs a classic Sean Paul sample with some explosive drill sections. This is one that’s going to get you hyped.

On this new song dedicated to California wine country, Larry June is simply chilling. He’s at the vineyard sampling Cabernets, cruising through the hills in a classic sports car, his tone relaxed, his bars unphased. This is pure luxury rap and every moment feels like a getaway.

Chief Keef always keeps a banger, but there’s an added sense of ambition on ‘Drifting Away’. It switches between a soulful R&B sample and some slicing trap sections, catching your ear with every flurry. The Chicago rapper sounds clearer than he ever has as he raps with hunger, delivering flows that are slightly off-kilter, but undeniably hard-hitting. It’s a standout from Sosa’s new album Almighty So 2.

Mach Hommy bugs out on ‘#RICHAXXHAITIAN’. He’s rapping with urgency, keeping up with the vibrant synths and fast-paced groove of Kaytranada’s production. 03 Greedo handles the hook with an effortless swagger, crooning his way into earworm territory. It’s weird, but goddamn does it work.

Sleepy Hallow is in serenade mode on ‘Winners In Paris’. He hits every note with passion, and the production is bubbly and blissful. It’s a low-key love song from the New York driller that’s bound to get stuck in your head.

The unsettling production of lil ket’s latest track creates a chilling horror movie atmosphere. Menacing 808s strike like sudden jump scares, while eerie synths steadily build tension. Commanding the mic, lil ket confronts the darkness with fierce verses that slice through the suspense.

With ‘Soul,’ Melbourne’s Rins4 is putting himself on many people’s radars. He pairs emphatic melodies with vulnerable lyricism, approaching the pulsating production as an open book. The track is a celebration of character and a must-add for any motivational playlist.