On the Tribe-channeling “Rat Race,” rapper Riley Writtens and his partner in rhyme Joey Golden let it be known that they’re not falling victim to traps traditional work (and non-traditional workers) try to set up. It’s a track about beating the rat race by realizing that life is not a sprint, but a marathon like Nipsey said. That marathon continues as long as you’re willing to put the work in and keep yourself around and ready to change your world. At least that’s the vibe I got from “Rat Race.”

I loved the production, as it reminds me of something you’d hear off an ATCQ album, straight down to the chops employed on the beat. It takes me to that happy place between jazz-rap and modern conscious hip-hop. That said, if you want your conscious raps with a side of confidence—with not too much cockiness—check this one out above and do the thing; support dope music in all its forms.