Hip-hop fans have something big to look forward to in 2025. Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def) and producer The Alchemist have joined forces as the duo Forensics and will release a collaborative album next year. This marks Bey’s first full-length project in over six years, signaling an exciting return to the rap scene.
The announcement came via an Instagram post from Bey, following a recent livestream performance where he debuted new music. While some fans thought the set was a one-time event, Bey confirmed more music is on the way. Forensics will kick off their album rollout with a private world premiere party on January 25, 2025, at Le Trianon in Paris. Attendees will get an exclusive preview of the album’s tracks, building anticipation for the official release.
The Alchemist has had a busy year, collaborating with artists like J. Cole and Big Sean and even showing interest in working with Young Thug. Meanwhile, Bey has remained largely reclusive since his 2019 project Negus, which was presented as an in-person sound installation at the Brooklyn Museum. In 2022, he briefly re-emerged alongside Talib Kweli for their Black Star reunion album No Fear of Time.
This collaboration with The Alchemist promises to blend Bey’s lyrical brilliance with The Alchemist’s masterful production. Bey’s return is also a reminder of the artistic legacy he shares with his daughter Laila, showcasing the family’s creative talents. Fans are eager to see how Forensics will redefine hip-hop in the coming year.
