The project starts on a high note with the “Intro” featuring Dunny Gage, and F Dot Notarized. The tone is set as the host introduces us to The Black Abstract while reminding us that the industry might not be ready for his arrival. All doubts are removed when the verbal darts start flying with bars like “Lights, water off, wonder where the gas at?/p89, got the juxx, where the mask at/Castle got crooks sideways where your flat at/BMI iTunes, got the ASCAP” populating the ominous cinematic soundscape laid in the background. The next track, “Take It Like a Man,” is an anthemic horn-driven jam that captures the classic early 2000s NY sound. As a Buffalo, NY resident, TheBlackAbstract does more to bring us into his hometown with his vivid songwriting and knack for engaging stories that detail his environment and his experiences. “Take It Like a Man” sure has that definitive semi-autobiographical theme that offers some insight into who TheBlackAbstract is.  The next track, “Angels & Demons,” is a collaboration with rappers King Jester and Lbizzy and is a conceptual tune about good and evil. Each verse explores different scenarios involving right and wrong and the in-betweens. Listeners are thrown right into the mix as the rappers deliver action-packed verses brimming with thought-provoking and insightful lines.

It must be noted that The Black Abstract is a product of the 90s, and this project echoes similar sentiments. The production weaves between soulful samples and punchy drum breaks with an emphasis on excellent storytelling and edgy lyricism. One notable track includes the heartfelt “Sent Love” featuring the legendary R&B duo Zhané, which repurposes their classic tune of the same name and sees TheBlackAbstract expressing his feelings over a smooth, soulful soundscape. Fellow rappers Ben Streetz, and eWw show up on “Bottom of My Cup,”  a party jam that uses a punchy club soundscape ripe with machine gun hi-hats, thick 808 kicks and snapping trap snares. The final track, “Mom,” is a heartfelt dedication to TheBlackAbstract’s late mother and the pain that comes with loss. Backed by the Gospel-infused beat by ILL Tone Beats, TheBlackAbstract displays vulnerability and solemnity as he reflects on the passing away of his mother. Far from wallowing in his sorrow, he also looks at the positive impact she had on him and how that helped him turn out the way he is today.

Overall, Industry Ready is a quick snapshot of what to expect from a potential full-length project from TheBlackAbstract. Each track here serves a purpose and offers listeners different sides and perspectives but most importantly allows us to know a bit more about TheBlackAbstract.