This one reminds me of Camp Lo, from the beat down to the bouncy-but-gruff flows exhibited on “Uncut Gems.” The duo of Dillon and Diamond D (also well-known for being one of the founding members of DITC) have known each other for most of the better part of the last two decades. Because of that, they have a natural chemistry on this song. It also helps that the duo are boombap heads who give us BARS! Diamond D even steps from behind the production booth and lays some lyrics of his own, showcasing that some rappers age, lyrically, like fine wine.

“Uncut Gems” and its recently-released video (below) features the rapper/producer duo doing what they do best. That is, dope lyrics, great beats and an overall vibe that’s vintage in some ways, but completely new in others. Through the party-esque scene featured in the visuals, Dillon and Diamond D give listeners a track that’ll break necks but also make you think.

I had a chance to sit with the album between first receiving this song and today and I have only one thing to say: “this is a stellar example of what it means to be hip-hop.” That is, it features all of the above but also has content that’s equally celebratory, educational, anti-fakeness and pro-community. In other wards, this is the type of song that takes ahold on you and your ears and doesn’t let them go until the album’s finished. That’s especially true here as this serves as the album’s intro. Check it out and support dope music in all its forms.