Can't Ban Tha Truth

One of the most beloved artists in the Houston underground, Trae has been churning out stellar, intelligent street music since he debuted alongside his cousin Z-Ro back in 1998. Since then he's dropped seven critically acclaimed solo albums plus countless collaborations and mixtapes, and also worked tirelessly to help his community, to the extent of getting a "Trae Day" proclaimed by the mayor of Houston in 2008. This compilation addresses the airplay ban put on him by a local radio station, but mostly it's just what you'd expect from Trae; quality music that perfectly balances grim street stories with a positive message, reminiscent of fellow H-Town legend Scarface. Avoiding the stereotypical get paid/get wasted mantra of some of his contemporaries, his songs are more about real-life struggles and triumphs, set to diverse production not afraid to throw in an acoustic guitar or classical piano lines. Check out "Tear," "Hood Knights," "The Radio Won't Play This," and "What It Is."