Even with two releases already in the bag, Strange Music’s ¡MAYDAY! couldn’t help but have the last laugh of 2012 with their upcoming Smash & Grab mixtape hosted by DJ Green Lantern.

A collection of previously released tracks and new remixes/freestyles, Smash & Grab will also feature guest spots from Pharoahe Monch, Jay Rock, Stevie Stone, Freeway, and will drop on 12/20 – one day before the supposed “end of the world.”

With the focus back on ¡MAYDAY!, we thought it was only fitting to catch up with Wrekonize and ask him for that oh so daunting task – pick your top 5 emcees. While Wrek admits that his list changes often, we did get a solid line-up of names that he admires:

It’s an ever-evolving list for sure. I would say if I had to pick five right now off the top – Pharoahe is definitely up there for me. He’s super nasty and makes me want to write every time I hear him. The only thing – I do wish his body of work was bigger. Posdnuos from De La Soul, he’s up there for me as well. I’m a huge Aesop Rock fan, he’s nasty. I’m obviously gonna throw Tech in there. Tech is a fucking beast. You know what, for my last one I’ll go with Black Thought.

But this kind of list – I’ll go on record now, this is an ever-evolving list. I might say these now, but it’s really hard to lock in. Out of these five emcees, they bring so many vibes, but maybe six months from now, I would switch some out. It’ll change from time to time.

Smash & Grab available 12-20-12

• What did you think of Wrek’s top five?

Let us know in the comments section below!