Yes, there were more XXL freshmen last year than Wiz Khalifa. Donnis, thick-framed glasses toting emcee from Atlanta, recently released his fourth mixtape Southern Lights. Diary of an ATL Brave, his 2009 project, has production that’s clap-driven, bass smash, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League magic. “Country Cool” feat. Bun B is great, “Pop them Things” by DJ Benzi is both House and Southern cooking. Look out for him to splash. 8/10

Two things you need to know about this recent addition to Maybach Music Group: he has a serious Ricky Rozay beard and serious mic skills. Stalley, proud Ohioian, has a piercing voice, more slick than what I was expecting (something thick w/ cotton ball cheeks). I listened and Damn, Wow, DAMN! Lincoln Way Nights is all the intro you need. “Go on” and “Lincoln Way Nights” are key tracks. It’s jazzy samples, high sped vocals, lyricism and all worth your time. 8.5/10