Philadelphia emcee Rosco P. Coldchain has returned to the forefront of the underground scene, enlisting the acclaimed Montréal producer Nicholas Craven for his latest sophomore effort. After rising to prominence in the 2000s under the Star Trak Entertainment banner—and navigating a career defined by mixtapes and his debut Almost Famous—Coldchain is looking to redefine his legacy. Following the mixed reception of his previous EP, For the Mature, this new project, Play with Something Safe, serves as a definitive statement of his artistic evolution.
The album opens with the gritty, drumless aesthetic that has become a signature of Craven’s production. Tracks like “Benz Sprinter” set a cold, calculated tone, focusing on the harsh realities of street life, while “Hold My Hand” offers a soulful, introspective look at the consequences of past choices. The project maintains this tension throughout, with “Frankenstein” utilizing haunting organ melodies to establish a dark, underground atmosphere that leads perfectly into the high-energy flow of “The Future.”
The second half of the album brings a shift in texture. “Prayer Group” leans into chipmunk soul influences, providing a backdrop for Coldchain to offer raw, personal confessions about his family. The collaboration with Bruiser Wolf on “Die Slow” is a standout, featuring tense, intricate sampling that highlights the duo’s ambition and respect within the industry. The title track, featuring Ab-Liva and Jimmie D, serves as a masterclass in minimalist production, allowing the lyricism to take center stage.
Nicholas Craven himself has said that Play with Something Safe is the closest thing he’s ever done to making a horrorcore album.
Ultimately, Play with Something Safe succeeds by leaning into the dark, sample-heavy production that Craven has perfected. It is a significant improvement over Coldchain’s previous work, effectively dethroning his earlier material and proving that he remains one of the most underrated lyricists in hip-hop. With a refined guest list and a cohesive, ominous soundscape, this album is a must-listen for fans of authentic, street-oriented rap.
Score: 9/10
