Harlem, New York emcee UFO Fev continues his prolific run with the release of his 13th overall project, 4 the High. Since his debut Around My Way over a decade ago, Fev has solidified his standing in the underground scene, particularly following a breakout 2020 that saw him drop three highly regarded projects. With 4 the High, he reunites with producer Machacha to deliver a concise, hard-hitting EP that serves as a vital bridge to his upcoming 14th studio album, Creatine.

The EP opens with “Left Lane,” a track that finds Fev reflecting on his resilience and ability to bounce back, followed by “Dealin’,” where he navigates a classic boom-bap instrumental to critique the current state of the streets. The project maintains this intensity throughout, with “Levels Up” offering a rugged commentary on betrayal and the shifting value of loyalty. The first half concludes with “Middle Gates,” an orchestral piece that highlights Fev’s growth and his perspective on fatherhood.

The second act of the EP introduces a more diverse sonic palette. Eto joins the fray on “Us Never Them,” a piano-driven track that sets a militant tone. This is followed by “The Palladium,” featuring Red Inf, which leans into a rap-rock aesthetic to explore the search for peace amidst conflict. The project closes with the ominous warning of “Saturday Mornings” and the introspective, drumless finale “God’s Sincere,” which touches on themes of spiritual guidance.

Machacha’s production on 4 the High is remarkably consistent, echoing the grit found in his previous collaborations like Lost in Transit and Villano de Medianoche. By keeping the runtime under thirty minutes, the EP allows Fev to focus on his lyrical delivery, providing a necessary correction for fans who may have felt underwhelmed by his previous outing, Hustle, Weed & Music. As he prepares for the release of Creatine—which will feature production from Eto—4 the High stands as a testament to Fev’s enduring commitment to New York hip-hop.

Score: 8/10