Ground Up

Ground Up sounds like the best party you ever went to in a basement that probably wasn't up to fire code. Their sound is rooted in the classic Philadelphia tradition of hard-hitting drums and soulful samples, but it's delivered with an irrepressible, youthful energy that feels more like a rock show than a traditional rap performance. The interplay between the two MCs, Azar and Malakai, creates a conversational yet competitive dynamic that keeps the momentum high.

What truly distinguishes the trio is their ability to bridge the gap between underground technicality and accessible, anthemic hooks. While their production by Bij Lincolns often leans into dusty, crate-digging aesthetics, the lyrics are filled with the kind of relatable, witty observations that resonate with a college-aged audience. It is music that feels 'fresh' in the literal sense: unpretentious, rhythmic, and deeply communal.

Start with their self-titled 2014 album to hear the group at their most polished, or dive into the 'Canned Goods' era for a rawer look at the Philly scene. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who misses the era of Mac Miller or Asher Roth but wants a slightly grittier, East Coast edge.