This week’s edition of New Music Friday features a varied selection of EPs, collab tapes, and experimental projects from up-and-coming DIY artists and a couple of bona fide underground veterans. Stylistically, the releases range from Boom-Bap and East Coast rap to more experimental/abstract forms, with some ambient and digital-native trap joints thrown in for good measure.
1. CRIMEAPPLE
NJ underground stalwart CRIMEAPPLE continues his relentless release pace with the Top 85 Dead or Alive EP. A grimy, loop-driven selection that highlights his bilingual delivery and cutting street-level wisdom, the EP shows that East Coast Boom-Bap is alive and well in 2026. Out now, July 31, 2026.
2. Kota the Friend (FLTBYS)
One of the most anticipated releases this week, Kota the Friend’s Just Happy To Be Here delivers more of the introspective songwriting and authentic storytelling he’s known for, set against a soulful, sophisticated backing. In the official announcement, Kota states that, “This album is a reflection of where I am in life right now. I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me on this journey.” Over 10 tracks, the album shifts effortlessly between Hip Hop, Jazz, Soul, and Acoustic influences, while retaining Kota’s distinctive sound and artistry. Out now, July 31, 2016.
3. Dark Lo & V Don
More East Coast goodness comes by way of Dark Lo & V Don’s Made of Gold collab, which combines cinematic, minimalist production with hard-hitting verses. Rough-edged and unabashedly streetwise, this tape is as unflinching and unfiltered a snapshot of the underground as you can get. Released July 30, 2026.
4. Apollo Brown & Ras Kass
Ras Kass is a name that’s probably more recognizable than any on this list. But make no mistake: this collaboration with Apollo Brown is by no means a legacy artist riding a trend. Blasphemy is steeped in the classic Boom-Bap tradition, with Apollo’s soulful loops and hard-hitting drums sure to have heads nodding in no time. Over this heady backdrop, West Coast legend Ras spits bars heavy enough to sink a battleship. Out now, July 31, 2026.
5. MC Serch & Apathy
Millions of Zeros is another collaboration between a Hip Hop veteran and an underground legend in-the-making, in this case, MC Serch and Apathy. Like Blasphemy, the EP is another chunky slab of Boom-Bap, but on a slightly rawer tip. The captivatingly raw production and vicious punch lines make this one an essential release. Out July 31, 2026.
6. Dave East & Harry Fraud
Perhaps the most recognizable names among current-day mainstream fans, Dave East nevertheless consistently marches to his own rhythm, refusing to strictly adhere to major-label cycles. On Price of Pain, the Harlem-based wordsmith teams up with Harry Fraud to serve up a satisfying slice of New York-flavored Hip Hop boasting lush production and tons of soul. Don’t be fooled by the slick and polished presentation though. Dave’s verses hit as hard as they ever have. Dropped July 29, 2026.
7. Patchwork Inc.
On a more experimental tip, Patchwork Inc.’s More Patchwork EP offers layer upon layer of evocative lo-fi textures with unconventional rap structures. The beats often seem to fall apart before coming together in a satisfying rhythmic resolution, serving as an intriguing base for the fragmented vocals and random audio snippets. Out now, July 31, 2026.
8. 3o$ama
A DIY collection of short but high-energy tracks, 3o$ama’s Free Car Music seems tailor-made for streaming. The spare but tight trap beats get the point across with zero fluff, accenting 3o$ama’s quick rap bursts and memorable hooks with precision. Released July 29, 2026.
9. Fate
West Coast mainstay Fate dropped a soulful stew of subdued moods and introspective lyrics called EVERGREEN, proving that conscious rap is alive and well in the indie world. Comprised of unreleased tracks dating from 2019 to 2023, it features guest appearances from the likes of Dania, Blu, and Rochelle Blue.
10. xstasyslim
Ambiance is fast becoming one of the defining sonic signatures of Hip Hop in 2026, and Ambient Plugg in particular is popping off in a big way. On 4 Your Eyez Only, xstasyslim taps into this vein with an enticing tapestry of airy pads and textures and ghostly melodies. The beats are light and crisp rather than booming, giving the entire production a dreamy, introspective feel. 4 Your Eyez Only drops in early August 2026.
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