The Ritz "Heartless"

• Words: Bryant Rutledge
• Label: Lab-Oratory

MC Apoc and producer Rel's first full-length under The Ritz moniker stretches in many directions stylistically, utilizing synths, string arrangements, and programmed beats to make hip-hop that constantly darts between dark and upbeat. Supposedly, noir films were the inspiration for the album, which explains the cinematic feel of the tracks, including this one, a breezy instrumental that incorporates film snippits in the mix. Elsewhere on the release, fellow Chicagoans Racecar (of Modill) and Rhymesayers artist Psalm One show up for guest appearances.