On his longest, most thoroughly executed album yet, out now via independent label Lex Records, Lord Jah-Monte Ogbon deftly showcases the surfeit of sonic skills that he’s cultivated over years of releasing exceptional, albeit shorter, projects through fellow indie labels such as FXCK RXP, Copenhagen Crates, and most notably Jewelry Rap Productions. One listen — or five — to his new album As Of Now will prove that this is the case here and now more than ever before. Charlotte, NC-raised Ogbon (aka King Callis) is clearly eager to show off his newfound zeal, represented amazingly on the lead single and album opener aptly titled “I’m Signed to Lex Now I’m Up,” produced by haNN_11. Skits and interludes don’t domineer and instead provide jocular respite from Ogbon verbally thrashing one great beat after another. This aptitude for picking production (some from underground hip hop legends, others gleaned from Instagram) goes hand in hand with Callis’ expert album sequencing.