Listen to Papo2oo4 and Subjxct’s Winnertime 2.0

Papo2oo4 and producer Subjxct 5 have been one of east coast underground rap’s most consistently engaging pairings for a hot minute. The secret to their chemistry is that it can take many different sounds, from early-aughts throwback joints to Dilla-indebted sample-chopped psychedelia to grime-influenced club fit for the Blade reboot. Today, they’re back with a new full-length tape called Winnertime 2.0.

A sequel to their 2021 tape, Winnertime 2.0 is a nimble and thoroughly fashionable showcase for the pair. Subjxect’s beats reconstruct samples to create intimidating atmospheres, like the beachside mafioso sprawl of “Quarter Water” or the blown-out orchestra of “Supersize,” creating a vibe that’s indebted to the Alchemist and DOOM while unafraid to venture far outside those borders. Papo’s eye for detail is as keen as ever, and delivered with style: imagine Brando behind the Godfather desk, but the entire office smells like jerk chicken and Belly is playing silently on loop in the background.