Both Curren$y and the Alchemist have been in the rap game for decades and both are known for prolific output and frequent collaboration, but something about their combined creative powers results in work that feels fresh and engaging. Continuance isnt the first time the two have joined forces, but it goes different places than their first collaboration, 2011s Covert Coup. Still driven by the Alchemists sample-heavy beats, Continuance is more mellow and soulful than the often hard-edged funk of Covert Coup, making space for more relaxed flows and dazzling production details like the dreamy piano arpeggios of "Reeses Cup" or the jazzy feel of "Kool & The Gang." Curren$y handles the majority of the rhymes here, but gets help from Boldy James on "No Yeast," Styles P on the stoned and shuffling "Whale Watching," Babyface Ray on the psychedelic swirl of "Louis Baggage," as well as spots from Wiz Khalifa, Havoc, and Larry June. The Alchemists instrumentals are fluid and bubbling over with unexpected sound combinations, and the inspired nature of Curren$ys performances comes through even when hes at his most laid-back. ~ Fred Thomas

Rovi