The latest collaborative EP from Buffalo, New York emcee Benny the Butcher and Hartford, Connecticut’s own Fuego Base marks a significant milestone in their artistic partnership. With one artist co-founding Black Soprano Family Records and the other rising to prominence under the label’s banner, their collaborative synergy on Ashes in the $afe feels like a natural progression of their shared vision.

The project arrives shortly after a momentous week in professional wrestling history, which saw legends like AJ Styles, Dennis Rodman, and the iconic tag team Demolition inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame—a fitting backdrop for a project that carries the same weight and legacy-building ambition.

A Deep Dive into the Soundscape

Following a sharp, titular intro, the track “Sundial” sets a high bar with a classic boom-bap aesthetic, establishing the duo’s shared claim to stardom. The EP allows for individual brilliance as well; “Pyrex & Prayers” serves as a standout moment for Fuego Base, who commands the track solo to detail the high-stakes reality of his grind. Benny the Butcher rejoins the fold on “Like It Is,” a track that reinforces their collective ability to articulate the harsh truths of their environment, while “Rev X,” featuring Sule, strips away the hooks to deliver a raw, hardcore performance.

Refining the Chemistry

The second half of the EP maintains this momentum. “The Fighting Irish” explores themes of fortune and perseverance, leading into the collaborative powerhouse “Warehouse 4,” which features O.T. the Real and Rick Hyde. This track serves as a direct continuation of the series established on Biggest Since Camby. Fuego Base closes out his solo contributions with “Big Shirley,” a track defined by triumphant strings and sharp percussion, before the project concludes with the atmospheric “Castellammarese War.”

While 2026 has already been a productive year for both artists, Ashes in the $afe stands out as a refined effort that surpasses previous collaborative ventures. The chemistry between the two is undeniable, and the project serves as a testament to their growth, proving that Benny the Butcher’s influence continues to elevate those around him while solidifying his own artistic legacy.

Score: 7/10