Toronto-born, Brampton-raised rapper Skip Waiters is a living embodiment of the MC who grew up in a post-regional era. The artist unveiled his first project, Personal Stereo, back in 2021, and ever since he’s been melding sounds from across North America into a one-of-a-kind rap style. On 2026’s Piks., he displays the breadth of his talent, moving from the bass-heavy swagger of West Coast rap on the SWAVAY-assisted statement of intent “MR. PIKS” to the vibey R&B and neo-soul influence on the lovesick “piLOT.” He even incorporates some backpack rap on the cut, proving that he looks to be in dialogue with music from all eras. When he raps about needing realignment like an “’05 Honda,” he cleverly harkens back to the time in which the song might have otherwise existed. Piks. is firmly a reflection of rap in 2026, which itself is in conversation with its own history. Our Favourite Beat: The choppy experimental samples and beat switch on “beautiful ugLY START.”