Brooklyn, New York emcee and producer Buckshot has long been a pillar of the underground hip-hop scene. Emerging as the frontman of the iconic trio Black Moon and serving as the de facto leader of the Boot Camp Clik, his influence is undeniable. Having co-founded the legendary Duck Down Music Inc. alongside his business partner Dru Ha, Buckshot has spent decades shaping the sound of New York rap. Following his earlier solo efforts and the I’m the Boss EP, he returns with his third solo LP, The Package, a project that stands as his finest collection of solo material to date.

The album opens with the self-produced “We Have Arrived,” a track that sets the tone with a jazzy, three-and-a-half-minute intro. This jazz-rap aesthetic continues on “Good Day,” where Buckshot reflects on the pleasant atmosphere of his neighborhood. The project then shifts gears; “What I Bring to the Table” leans into a hardcore boom-bap sound, while “Sounds of the Subway” utilizes sharp horns to deliver a quintessential New York experience.

As the album progresses, “Just Stop” offers a mellow, introspective atmosphere, providing sage advice for those who struggle with silence. The midpoint, “Make Moves,” serves as a direct response to critics questioning his status as a lyricist. The second half of The Package maintains this momentum, with “High Tech Low Life” showcasing his rugged, pen-to-pad approach to songwriting, while “All Fans” highlights his enduring hunger over a backdrop of strings.

The final quarter of the record is equally compelling. “Beware Now” serves as a cautionary tale, while “Band on Break” incorporates piano melodies to address his recent absence from the spotlight. The track “Night Stress,” featuring Steele, explores the complexities of rebellion, leading into the title track, which closes the album on a celebratory, triumphant note.

While his debut, The B.D.I. Thug, faced mixed reception and Backpack Travels served its purpose, The Package is undeniably superior to both. It is a cohesive, self-produced body of work that proves Buckshot remains as sharp as he was on 2019’s Rise of da Moon. For fans who have long awaited a project entirely helmed by the Duck Down co-founder, this album is a definitive triumph.

Score: 8/10