Chino XL’s long-awaited third posthumous album, Ascen7ion, has lastly arrived. Following The Map of Bones, this 7-track undertaking showcases the lyrical brilliance and uncooked emotion that followers have come to anticipate from the legendary MC.
The album kicks off with “SHOTS THROUGH YA VEHICLE,” opening with a daring assertion—”fuck everybody, respectfully”—and instantly launching into rapid-fire rhymes. Chino comes out swinging, taking lyrical pictures and asserting his dominance with intricate wordplay.
“ALWAYS THERE…” dives into deeper emotional territory, addressing hidden ache, psychological well being struggles, and the non-public pressure between being a loving father and battling internal demons. The observe stands out for its heartfelt introspection, remodeling vulnerability into poetic energy.

“WE JUST SPIT BARS,” that includes Canibus, is a lyrical slugfest. Canibus units the tone by declaring who one of the best is—himself and Chino—and each artists proceed to destroy the beat with ruthless verses, displaying off their legendary lyrical talents.
“STREET CRUCIFIXION” delivers uncooked, unfiltered power harking back to basic road mixtape freestyles. The gritty vibe reinforces Chino’s roots in underground hip-hop.
“LINDA,” that includes Sincerely Collins, and “DO YOU HEAR?” that includes MC Lyte and J Lee, deliver layered wordplay and wealthy symbolism. These tracks steadiness emotional depth with mental sharpness, additional highlighting Chino’s versatility.
The album concludes with “THE TEMPEST,” the place Chino unleashes a fast-paced lyrical storm, explaining why he is the tempest. He cleverly contrasts his private which means of the title with Shakespeare’s authentic play, providing a robust closing assertion on id, chaos, and mastery.
Ascen7ion options manufacturing from Anno Domini, Johnny Slash, Bodybag Ben, and Dub Sonata, with govt manufacturing by Matthew “M80” Markoff.
This undertaking is on the market completely in bodily format and comes as a part of a 3-disc pack that features his beforehand launched posthumous albums, Darkness and Different Colours and Map of Bones. It’s offered completely by 1332 Data.
It’s not over simply but—extra Chino XL is on the best way.
Coming quickly:
- Chino XL x Dheezy Hallow – The Mantis
- Chino XL x Stu Bangas – God’s Carpenter 2
- Chino XL x Dub Sonata – The Tempest
- Chino XL x Exacto – Outline the Bleeding
Keep tuned.
Tragically, the world misplaced Derek Keith Barbosa—higher generally known as Chino XL—on July 28, 2024. His sudden passing despatched shockwaves by the hip-hop group and past. He’s survived by his 5 youngsters, 5 grandchildren, his mom, and his former longtime companion.
In case you or somebody you understand is battling psychological well being, please attain out to the 988 Suicide & Disaster Lifeline. You aren’t alone—assistance is at all times out there.
