Steeped in the blistering aggression and unwavering pride of the Big Apple, Scar Lip’s explosive “This Is New York” is the kind of record that cuts through the clutter and single-handedly transforms the cultural zeitgeist. Hailing from The Bronx, Scar Lip embodies the spirit of two of the borough’s biggest icons: Throughout the song, she harnesses the playful sensuality of Cardi B and blends it with DMX’s survivalist spirit. A defiant rebuttal to those who bemoan the state of contemporary hip-hop, “This Is New York” is important archival practice — a survey of how the city’s essence has evolved from one generation to the next. — KYLE DENIS