The new mixtape between Chicago’s Valee and Dj Bandz is an exciting take on the art of street music. Entitled “1988,” Valee excels as more than a lyricist featuring verses from Bricc Baby, DrugRixh Peso, and Hoodrich Pablo Juan. Collectively, Bandz, RioMac, CardoGotWingz, Valee, and long time collaborator ChaseTheMoney account for the project’s production. This being his fifth collection of music since last year, Valee has shown no signs of stopping. Releasing a handful of singles and visuals as well, 2017 should solidify his rank among the city’s hottest acts. He’ll no doubt expand this reputation even further, performing live at SubT May 24th. 

After hearing the project, I had to take a nap. Not because it put me to sleep, quite the opposite actually. 1988 is literally a non-stop compilation of club ready singles, by the end of the mixtape I reached a pinnacle of turn-up like never before. When was the last time you got a project from an independent artist, that successfully featured no breaks in tempo? Don’t worry I’ll wait. What I’ll be doing, is bumping this tape, and judging by his work ethic I’ll have even more music by summer. As a proficient songwriting-producer, the ball is in Valee’s court. With collaborators throwing alley-oops from all angles- visuals, press, booking. I expect to see giant progression from now to 2018. Check out 1988 when you get a chance.