A Tribe Called Quest Vinyl, CD & Tape 37 Items

Originally released in 1996, 'Beats, Rhymes and Life' marked a bold new chapter in A Tribe Called Quest's legendary career. With production by Q-Tip and J Dilla, the album blends jazzy, soulful beats with introspective lyrics and sharp social commentary. Showcasing the group's evolving sound, while staying true to their roots in conscious hip-hop, it features key tracks '1nce Again' (25m+ streams), 'Stressed Out' featuring Faith Evans (17m+ streams), and 'The Hop' (60m+ streams). This Grammy nominated album was their biggest commercial success to that point, and was critically acclaimed, with Rolling Stone calling it 'near flawless'.

'Hits, Rarities & Remixes', released in 2003, is a compilation bringing together the group's most iconic tracks, rare B-sides, and exclusive remixes, to offer a comprehensive look at their career with a deep dive into the lesser-known gems that shaped their sound. This 2LP set includes big hitters like 'Can I Kick It?' (300m+ streams), 'Electric Relaxation' (176m+ streams) and 'Scenario' (62m+ streams) to rare remixes, this album is a celebration of Tribe's unparalleled influence on hip-hop.

The Low End Theory, featuring Check The Rhime, Jazz (We Got) and Scenario, is widely considered to be A Tribe Called Quest’s masterpiece album. Presented as a special green andred splatter RSD exclusive vinyl, it is the first time this influential album has been available on Color Vinyl outside the US.

Midnight Marauders is the third studio album by A Tribe Called Quest, released on November 9, 1993. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, known for its sophisticated jazz-infused production, smooth lyricism, and impactful social commentary. The album helped cement A Tribe Called Quest as pioneers of the alternative hip-hop movement.

Midnight Marauders continues the group’s fusion of jazz samples and boom-bap beats, much like their previous album, The Low End Theory. However, the production on Midnight Marauders is tighter, more polished, and showcases a richer sound with more layers of sampling and instrumentation.
The album features both Q-Tip (Kamaal Ibn John Fareed) and Phife Dawg (Malik Taylor) at the height of their lyrical powers. Q-Tip delivers introspective, philosophical verses with his signature smooth, laid-back delivery, while Phife Dawg provides sharp, witty, and streetwise commentary, offering a perfect contrast to Q-Tip’s style.

The album addresses a range of topics, from the complexities of Black identity and the state of hip-hop to reflections on love, competition, and the music industry. The lyrics are often intellectual yet grounded in everyday experiences, making them accessible and thought-provoking.
The themes in the album extend to the critique of societal issues like police brutality and systemic racism, but they are presented in a conversational, unpretentious manner.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Award Tour" (featuring Trugoy from De La Soul) – One of the album’s biggest singles, this track celebrates Tribe’s success while maintaining a humble, down-to-earth tone. It’s driven by a catchy, upbeat beat and has an infectious hook.
"Electric Relaxation" – A classic, smooth track known for its laid-back vibe and jazzy production. The song features witty, flirtatious lyrics, where both Q-Tip and Phife Dawg reflect on relationships and romance. It remains one of the group’s most popular songs.
"Oh My God" (featuring Busta Rhymes) – A high-energy track that blends frantic, lively production with sharp lyricism from Q-Tip and Phife, while Busta Rhymes brings his signature hype-man energy on the chorus.
"Sucka Nigga" – In this controversial track, Q-Tip delves into the history of the N-word, its reclamation, and the complexities of language in African American culture. The track is a reflective and thought-provoking commentary on racial identity.
"We Can Get Down" – A track that highlights the camaraderie between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg as they rap about friendship and mutual respect, reinforcing the tight bond within the group.
"Clap Your Hands" – With its boom-bap beat and jazz-heavy instrumentation, this track is a quintessential Tribe song, showcasing their ability to create music that is both catchy and intellectual.

Midnight Marauders was produced by A Tribe Called Quest themselves, with the assistance of their longtime collaborator Ali Shaheed Muhammad. The production continues to focus on sampling jazz records, but it’s more refined, with a greater emphasis on layered sounds, creating a warmer, fuller sonic experience.
The album also features funk, soul, and R&B influences, giving it a dynamic, genre-blending feel that set it apart from the more sample-heavy hip-hop albums of the time.

Midnight Marauders was both a critical and commercial success, debuting at #8 on the Billboard 200 and receiving widespread acclaim for its innovative production and insightful lyricism. Critics praised the album for its balance of jazz-inflected beats and clever wordplay, as well as its thoughtful approach to social issues.
The album is often included in "greatest albums" lists and is considered one of the essential works of 90s hip-hop. It influenced a wide range of artists, from Kendrick Lamar to J. Cole, and helped solidify A Tribe Called Quest’s legacy as one of the most innovative and impactful groups in hip-hop history.

Midnight Marauders represents the perfect blend of jazz, hip-hop, and social commentary, with A Tribe Called Quest striking a balance between intellectual exploration and accessible, feel-good music. The album’s cohesive sound, sharp lyricism, and cultural relevance have made it a cornerstone of hip-hop and one of the genre’s most beloved records.

The Low End Theory is the second studio album by A Tribe Called Quest, released on September 24, 1991. Widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, it marked a significant moment in the genre, blending elements of jazz with boom-bap beats, and pioneering what would become the cornerstone of alternative hip-hop.

The album is known for its innovative fusion of jazz samples with minimalist hip-hop beats, creating a sound that was both sophisticated and accessible. Unlike the dense, layered production of many contemporary hip-hop records, The Low End Theory focuses on space and simplicity, with deep basslines and crisp drum patterns.
Q-Tip (Kamaal Ibn John Fareed) and Phife Dawg (Malik Taylor) trade verses over the jazzy instrumentals, creating a unique vocal dynamic, where Q-Tip’s smooth, philosophical tone contrasts with Phife Dawg’s more playful, energetic style.
Ali Shaheed Muhammad handled the DJing and production, contributing to the overall smooth, laid-back vibe of the album.

Lyrically, The Low End Theory covers a wide range of topics, including Afrocentricity, Black identity, the music industry, and the state of hip-hop culture at the time.
The album is both introspective and socially conscious, with songs like “Excursions” reflecting on the evolution of hip-hop and its roots in jazz, while “Check the Rhime” is a more playful celebration of the group’s rise in the rap scene.
“Jazz (We’ve Got)” explicitly pays homage to the connection between hip-hop and jazz, reinforcing the album’s central theme of blending the two genres.

"Excursions" – The opening track, which features Q-Tip reflecting on the history of music and the parallels between jazz and hip-hop. It sets the tone for the album’s jazz-influenced sound.
"Check the Rhime" – One of the album’s lead singles, this track is an upbeat, braggadocious song that showcases the chemistry between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg, with its catchy hook and memorable horn sample.
"Scenario" – A high-energy posse cut featuring Leaders of the New School, including a young Busta Rhymes, who delivers one of his most iconic verses. The song is a standout due to its explosive energy and rapid-fire lyricism.
"Jazz (We’ve Got)" – This track serves as a tribute to the connection between jazz and hip-hop, with a smooth, mellow beat that perfectly complements Q-Tip and Phife Dawg’s lyrical flows.
"Butter" – A Phife Dawg showcase, this track finds him reflecting on relationships with wit and humor, over a funky, bass-heavy beat.

The Low End Theory was not just a commercial success, reaching #45 on the Billboard 200, but it also had a profound influence on the direction of 90s hip-hop. Its emphasis on live instrumentation and jazz influences inspired countless artists, including The Roots, Common, and Kendrick Lamar.
The album is widely considered one of the best hip-hop albums of all time, often appearing in "greatest albums" lists. It was instrumental in defining the alternative rap movement and proved that hip-hop could be both musically sophisticated and commercially viable.
The fusion of jazz and hip-hop on The Low End Theory created a template for the genre’s future evolution, especially with its influence on the development of neo-soul and jazz rap in the following years.

The Low End Theory is a landmark album that changed the landscape of hip-hop. Its minimalist production, jazz influences, and thoughtful lyricism continue to resonate today, and its impact on the genre remains undeniable. A Tribe Called Quest created a timeless record that pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, showing that the genre could be introspective, artistic, and intellectually engaging while still maintaining mass appeal.

An undesputed classic album comes back with the 25th anniversary treatment! Remastered from the original tapes by Bob Power (D'Angelo, De La Soul) plus three remixes by Ceelo Green, Pharrell Williams & J. Cole!

For those who haven't discovered that A Tribe Called Quest made several of the best LPs in hip-hop history, Anthology is a perfect way to encapsulate the trio's decade-long career into one manageable portion. All of their best and biggest songs are here, from the early neglected joint "Luck of Lucien" to classic jazz-rap from The Low End Theory like "Jazz (We've Got)," and their 45-rpm peak with "Award Tour," all the way to their last big hit, "Find a Way," from 1998's The Love Movement. Yes, anyone who enjoys hip-hop needs to own at least Midnight Marauders and The Low End Theory, but Anthology succeeds in delivering all the highest points from a great hip-hop group's career.

It's really true, finally this album is back on vinyl. A Tribe Called Quest's fifth album was released a month after they announced their break-up in 1998.

A Tribe Called Quest - Q-Tip, Phife Dawg (who passed away on March 22nd, 2016), Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Jarobi White - the groundbreaking 90's group that forever transformed the urban music landscape reunited on their first and last studio album together in eighteen years. Guests on ''We got it from Here...Thank You 4 Your Service'' include, Kendrick Lamar, Elton John, Jack White, Andre 3000, Busta Rhymes, Consequence, Anderson.Paak, and Talib Kweli.

After years in the making, last year we released our The Low End Theory 7" Box Set for the 30th Anniversary. It was a labor of love and a work of art. We know there are DJs out there asking and vinyl purists that aren't interested in colored vinyl so we have pressed up the collection on all black 7" vinyl.

Originally released 32 years ago on September 24, 1991, A Tribe Called Quest's second studio album is regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. From Check The Rhime to the posse cut Scenario, the trio of Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, and Ali Shaheed Muhammad deliver jazzy hip-hop beats and rhymes like butter.

Limited Edition Box Set Includes:

-The full album is presented on eight black 7" records with 2 bonus tracks.

-Five of the 7" records are housed in custom picture sleeves that form the iconic album cover along with 3 replicas of the original 12-inch singles that were released.

-The 7" collection is housed in a deluxe, fabric-wrapped 45 singles carrying case, with 360-degree original album art and custom inner wrapped ATCQ logo graphics and group photo.

ATCQ meets J Dilla! Absoluteclassicalistic!
BEATS, RHYMES AND LIFE was nominated for a 1997 Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. "1nce Again" was nominated for a 1997 Grammy for Best Rap Performance By a Duo Or Group. A Tribe Called Quest seem to grow, both musically and lyrically, with every LP, constantly setting standards for other rappers to follow. But they rarely stray from their chosen path. Since their 1990 debut, hip-hop has gone through numerous phases (new jack swing, gangster, hardcore), but the Tribe have remained focused on the music's true elements: BEATS, RHYMES AND LIFE. Produced by the Ummah, which consists of the Tribe's Q-Tip and Ali Shaheed Muhammad along with newcomer Jay Dee, BEATS, RHYMES AND LIFE sports the usual jazzy beats, and reintroduces Tribe as the all-around hip-hop group. Muhammad's use of funky samples, Phife's self-satisfying attitude, and Q-Tip's abstract poetry are only part of the reason why the trio keeps rap music on lockdown. There are other bands capable of experimenting with new sounds while delivering lyrical positivism, but they often forget how to simply rock the crowd. A Tribe Called Quest does that, too.

lyricism, and impactful social commentary. The album helped cement A Tribe Called Quest as pioneers of the alternative hip-hop movement.

Midnight Marauders continues the group’s fusion of jazz samples and boom-bap beats, much like their previous album, The Low End Theory. However, the production on Midnight Marauders is tighter, more polished, and showcases a richer sound with more layers of sampling and instrumentation.
The album features both Q-Tip (Kamaal Ibn John Fareed) and Phife Dawg (Malik Taylor) at the height of their lyrical powers. Q-Tip delivers introspective, philosophical verses with his signature smooth, laid-back delivery, while Phife Dawg provides sharp, witty, and streetwise commentary, offering a perfect contrast to Q-Tip’s style.

The album addresses a range of topics, from the complexities of Black identity and the state of hip-hop to reflections on love, competition, and the music industry. The lyrics are often intellectual yet grounded in everyday experiences, making them accessible and thought-provoking.
The themes in the album extend to the critique of societal issues like police brutality and systemic racism, but they are presented in a conversational, unpretentious manner.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Award Tour" (featuring Trugoy from De La Soul) – One of the album’s biggest singles, this track celebrates Tribe’s success while maintaining a humble, down-to-earth tone. It’s driven by a catchy, upbeat beat and has an infectious hook.
"Electric Relaxation" – A classic, smooth track known for its laid-back vibe and jazzy production. The song features witty, flirtatious lyrics, where both Q-Tip and Phife Dawg reflect on relationships and romance. It remains one of the group’s most popular songs.
"Oh My God" (featuring Busta Rhymes) – A high-energy track that blends frantic, lively production with sharp lyricism from Q-Tip and Phife, while Busta Rhymes brings his signature hype-man energy on the chorus.
"Sucka Nigga" – In this controversial track, Q-Tip delves into the history of the N-word, its reclamation, and the complexities of language in African American culture. The track is a reflective and thought-provoking commentary on racial identity.
"We Can Get Down" – A track that highlights the camaraderie between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg as they rap about friendship and mutual respect, reinforcing the tight bond within the group.
"Clap Your Hands" – With its boom-bap beat and jazz-heavy instrumentation, this track is a quintessential Tribe song, showcasing their ability to create music that is both catchy and intellectual.

Midnight Marauders was produced by A Tribe Called Quest themselves, with the assistance of their longtime collaborator Ali Shaheed Muhammad. The production continues to focus on sampling jazz records, but it’s more refined, with a greater emphasis on layered sounds, creating a warmer, fuller sonic experience.
The album also features funk, soul, and R&B influences, giving it a dynamic, genre-blending feel that set it apart from the more sample-heavy hip-hop albums of the time.

Midnight Marauders was both a critical and commercial success, debuting at #8 on the Billboard 200 and receiving widespread acclaim for its innovative production and insightful lyricism. Critics praised the album for its balance of jazz-inflected beats and clever wordplay, as well as its thoughtful approach to social issues.
The album is often included in "greatest albums" lists and is considered one of the essential works of 90s hip-hop. It influenced a wide range of artists, from Kendrick Lamar to J. Cole, and helped solidify A Tribe Called Quest’s legacy as one of the most innovative and impactful groups in hip-hop history.

Midnight Marauders represents the perfect blend of jazz, hip-hop, and social commentary, with A Tribe Called Quest striking a balance between intellectual exploration and accessible, feel-good music. The album’s cohesive sound, sharp lyricism, and cultural relevance have made it a cornerstone of hip-hop and one of the genre’s most beloved records.

Official Mr Bongo reissue /// All-time classic hip-hop of the highest possible grade from A Tribe Called Quest, featuring that verse from Busta Rhymes. Replica reissue of the prized, Germany-only 7” from 1992, cut loud.

People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm is, quite simply, one of the finest albums in hip-hop. It's easy to argue that a Tribe Called Quest reached their zenith on this, their debut album: though they went on to produce another world-class disc (The Low End Theory) and broadened their palates and their consciousness, never again were they quite this naturally free and easy. Q-Tip and Phife's delivery is deceptively simple, flowing like wine and tasting like candy, and Jairobi adds some contrast. The music, so self-assured that it never raises it's voice to make a spectacle, follows suit. Four albums later, on their last tour, songs from Paths of Rhythm still were at the top of the set list. - Randy Silver.

Contains their hits plus hard to find rarities and the previously unreleased tracks 'Mr. Incognito', 'The night he got caught'

The Low End Theory is the second studio album by A Tribe Called Quest, released on September 24, 1991. Widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, it marked a significant moment in the genre, blending elements of jazz with boom-bap beats, and pioneering what would become the cornerstone of alternative hip-hop.

The album is known for its innovative fusion of jazz samples with minimalist hip-hop beats, creating a sound that was both sophisticated and accessible. Unlike the dense, layered production of many contemporary hip-hop records, The Low End Theory focuses on space and simplicity, with deep basslines and crisp drum patterns.
Q-Tip (Kamaal Ibn John Fareed) and Phife Dawg (Malik Taylor) trade verses over the jazzy instrumentals, creating a unique vocal dynamic, where Q-Tip’s smooth, philosophical tone contrasts with Phife Dawg’s more playful, energetic style.
Ali Shaheed Muhammad handled the DJing and production, contributing to the overall smooth, laid-back vibe of the album.

Lyrically, The Low End Theory covers a wide range of topics, including Afrocentricity, Black identity, the music industry, and the state of hip-hop culture at the time.
The album is both introspective and socially conscious, with songs like “Excursions” reflecting on the evolution of hip-hop and its roots in jazz, while “Check the Rhime” is a more playful celebration of the group’s rise in the rap scene.
“Jazz (We’ve Got)” explicitly pays homage to the connection between hip-hop and jazz, reinforcing the album’s central theme of blending the two genres.

"Excursions" – The opening track, which features Q-Tip reflecting on the history of music and the parallels between jazz and hip-hop. It sets the tone for the album’s jazz-influenced sound.
"Check the Rhime" – One of the album’s lead singles, this track is an upbeat, braggadocious song that showcases the chemistry between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg, with its catchy hook and memorable horn sample.
"Scenario" – A high-energy posse cut featuring Leaders of the New School, including a young Busta Rhymes, who delivers one of his most iconic verses. The song is a standout due to its explosive energy and rapid-fire lyricism.
"Jazz (We’ve Got)" – This track serves as a tribute to the connection between jazz and hip-hop, with a smooth, mellow beat that perfectly complements Q-Tip and Phife Dawg’s lyrical flows.
"Butter" – A Phife Dawg showcase, this track finds him reflecting on relationships with wit and humor, over a funky, bass-heavy beat.

The Low End Theory was not just a commercial success, reaching #45 on the Billboard 200, but it also had a profound influence on the direction of 90s hip-hop. Its emphasis on live instrumentation and jazz influences inspired countless artists, including The Roots, Common, and Kendrick Lamar.
The album is widely considered one of the best hip-hop albums of all time, often appearing in "greatest albums" lists. It was instrumental in defining the alternative rap movement and proved that hip-hop could be both musically sophisticated and commercially viable.
The fusion of jazz and hip-hop on The Low End Theory created a template for the genre’s future evolution, especially with its influence on the development of neo-soul and jazz rap in the following years.

The Low End Theory is a landmark album that changed the landscape of hip-hop. Its minimalist production, jazz influences, and thoughtful lyricism continue to resonate today, and its impact on the genre remains undeniable. A Tribe Called Quest created a timeless record that pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, showing that the genre could be introspective, artistic, and intellectually engaging while still maintaining mass appeal.

A Tribe Called Quest - Q-Tip, Phife Dawg (who passed away on March 22nd, 2016), Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Jarobi White - the groundbreaking 90's group that forever transformed the urban music landscape reunited on their first and last studio album together in eighteen years. Guests on ''We got it from Here...Thank You 4 Your Service'' include, Kendrick Lamar, Elton John, Jack White, Andre 3000, Busta Rhymes, Consequence, Anderson.Paak, and Talib Kweli.

Here's the final ATCQ joint feat. Andre 3000, Kendrick Lamar, Elton John, Jack White and Busta Rhymes!

lyricism, and impactful social commentary. The album helped cement A Tribe Called Quest as pioneers of the alternative hip-hop movement.

Midnight Marauders continues the group’s fusion of jazz samples and boom-bap beats, much like their previous album, The Low End Theory. However, the production on Midnight Marauders is tighter, more polished, and showcases a richer sound with more layers of sampling and instrumentation.
The album features both Q-Tip (Kamaal Ibn John Fareed) and Phife Dawg (Malik Taylor) at the height of their lyrical powers. Q-Tip delivers introspective, philosophical verses with his signature smooth, laid-back delivery, while Phife Dawg provides sharp, witty, and streetwise commentary, offering a perfect contrast to Q-Tip’s style.

The album addresses a range of topics, from the complexities of Black identity and the state of hip-hop to reflections on love, competition, and the music industry. The lyrics are often intellectual yet grounded in everyday experiences, making them accessible and thought-provoking.
The themes in the album extend to the critique of societal issues like police brutality and systemic racism, but they are presented in a conversational, unpretentious manner.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Award Tour" (featuring Trugoy from De La Soul) – One of the album’s biggest singles, this track celebrates Tribe’s success while maintaining a humble, down-to-earth tone. It’s driven by a catchy, upbeat beat and has an infectious hook.
"Electric Relaxation" – A classic, smooth track known for its laid-back vibe and jazzy production. The song features witty, flirtatious lyrics, where both Q-Tip and Phife Dawg reflect on relationships and romance. It remains one of the group’s most popular songs.
"Oh My God" (featuring Busta Rhymes) – A high-energy track that blends frantic, lively production with sharp lyricism from Q-Tip and Phife, while Busta Rhymes brings his signature hype-man energy on the chorus.
"Sucka Nigga" – In this controversial track, Q-Tip delves into the history of the N-word, its reclamation, and the complexities of language in African American culture. The track is a reflective and thought-provoking commentary on racial identity.
"We Can Get Down" – A track that highlights the camaraderie between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg as they rap about friendship and mutual respect, reinforcing the tight bond within the group.
"Clap Your Hands" – With its boom-bap beat and jazz-heavy instrumentation, this track is a quintessential Tribe song, showcasing their ability to create music that is both catchy and intellectual.

Midnight Marauders was produced by A Tribe Called Quest themselves, with the assistance of their longtime collaborator Ali Shaheed Muhammad. The production continues to focus on sampling jazz records, but it’s more refined, with a greater emphasis on layered sounds, creating a warmer, fuller sonic experience.
The album also features funk, soul, and R&B influences, giving it a dynamic, genre-blending feel that set it apart from the more sample-heavy hip-hop albums of the time.

Midnight Marauders was both a critical and commercial success, debuting at #8 on the Billboard 200 and receiving widespread acclaim for its innovative production and insightful lyricism. Critics praised the album for its balance of jazz-inflected beats and clever wordplay, as well as its thoughtful approach to social issues.
The album is often included in "greatest albums" lists and is considered one of the essential works of 90s hip-hop. It influenced a wide range of artists, from Kendrick Lamar to J. Cole, and helped solidify A Tribe Called Quest’s legacy as one of the most innovative and impactful groups in hip-hop history.

Midnight Marauders represents the perfect blend of jazz, hip-hop, and social commentary, with A Tribe Called Quest striking a balance between intellectual exploration and accessible, feel-good music. The album’s cohesive sound, sharp lyricism, and cultural relevance have made it a cornerstone of hip-hop and one of the genre’s most beloved records.

Original US pressing. Vinyl is Close to VG. Original inner sleeve.

A Tribe Called Quest are widely hailed as one of the greatest rap acts of all time. This trio (2-mic pioneers, Phife Dawg & Q-Tip, along with their DJ Ali Shaheed Muhammad) was one of the most lyrically gifted in the music genre of Hip-Hop. The blends of jazz ‘n bass-heavy beats (East Coast “muddy bass”) was truly and still is truly innovative. Instead of being a great rap album like the one before it, “Beats, Rhymes & Life” is a great Tribe album. It takes time to understand it but it fits perfectly in its place in the Tribe canon and in the mid- 90s. It has their trademark smooth style and flow with a much darker theme and subject matter than their previous album. It’s a real work of art and still fresh so many years after its release.

Vinyl with many scuffs and hairlines. Still in shrink, but opened. US reissue from 2004.

Explicit version 1999 2 X vinyl LP pressing collection featuring the best tracks from the NYC hip hop group's previous five albums including "I Left My wallet in El Segundo", "Can I Kick It", "Bonita Apple bum", "Check the Rhime" & many more. Guests include Busta Rhymes & Faith Evans.

Original inner sleeve. Original US pressing. DJ groove wear.

Records are close to if not VG+.

lyricism, and impactful social commentary. The album helped cement A Tribe Called Quest as pioneers of the alternative hip-hop movement.

Midnight Marauders continues the group’s fusion of jazz samples and boom-bap beats, much like their previous album, The Low End Theory. However, the production on Midnight Marauders is tighter, more polished, and showcases a richer sound with more layers of sampling and instrumentation.
The album features both Q-Tip (Kamaal Ibn John Fareed) and Phife Dawg (Malik Taylor) at the height of their lyrical powers. Q-Tip delivers introspective, philosophical verses with his signature smooth, laid-back delivery, while Phife Dawg provides sharp, witty, and streetwise commentary, offering a perfect contrast to Q-Tip’s style.

The album addresses a range of topics, from the complexities of Black identity and the state of hip-hop to reflections on love, competition, and the music industry. The lyrics are often intellectual yet grounded in everyday experiences, making them accessible and thought-provoking.
The themes in the album extend to the critique of societal issues like police brutality and systemic racism, but they are presented in a conversational, unpretentious manner.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Award Tour" (featuring Trugoy from De La Soul) – One of the album’s biggest singles, this track celebrates Tribe’s success while maintaining a humble, down-to-earth tone. It’s driven by a catchy, upbeat beat and has an infectious hook.
"Electric Relaxation" – A classic, smooth track known for its laid-back vibe and jazzy production. The song features witty, flirtatious lyrics, where both Q-Tip and Phife Dawg reflect on relationships and romance. It remains one of the group’s most popular songs.
"Oh My God" (featuring Busta Rhymes) – A high-energy track that blends frantic, lively production with sharp lyricism from Q-Tip and Phife, while Busta Rhymes brings his signature hype-man energy on the chorus.
"Sucka Nigga" – In this controversial track, Q-Tip delves into the history of the N-word, its reclamation, and the complexities of language in African American culture. The track is a reflective and thought-provoking commentary on racial identity.
"We Can Get Down" – A track that highlights the camaraderie between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg as they rap about friendship and mutual respect, reinforcing the tight bond within the group.
"Clap Your Hands" – With its boom-bap beat and jazz-heavy instrumentation, this track is a quintessential Tribe song, showcasing their ability to create music that is both catchy and intellectual.

Midnight Marauders was produced by A Tribe Called Quest themselves, with the assistance of their longtime collaborator Ali Shaheed Muhammad. The production continues to focus on sampling jazz records, but it’s more refined, with a greater emphasis on layered sounds, creating a warmer, fuller sonic experience.
The album also features funk, soul, and R&B influences, giving it a dynamic, genre-blending feel that set it apart from the more sample-heavy hip-hop albums of the time.

Midnight Marauders was both a critical and commercial success, debuting at #8 on the Billboard 200 and receiving widespread acclaim for its innovative production and insightful lyricism. Critics praised the album for its balance of jazz-inflected beats and clever wordplay, as well as its thoughtful approach to social issues.
The album is often included in "greatest albums" lists and is considered one of the essential works of 90s hip-hop. It influenced a wide range of artists, from Kendrick Lamar to J. Cole, and helped solidify A Tribe Called Quest’s legacy as one of the most innovative and impactful groups in hip-hop history.

Midnight Marauders represents the perfect blend of jazz, hip-hop, and social commentary, with A Tribe Called Quest striking a balance between intellectual exploration and accessible, feel-good music. The album’s cohesive sound, sharp lyricism, and cultural relevance have made it a cornerstone of hip-hop and one of the genre’s most beloved records.

The Low End Theory is the second studio album by A Tribe Called Quest, released on September 24, 1991. Widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, it marked a significant moment in the genre, blending elements of jazz with boom-bap beats, and pioneering what would become the cornerstone of alternative hip-hop.

The album is known for its innovative fusion of jazz samples with minimalist hip-hop beats, creating a sound that was both sophisticated and accessible. Unlike the dense, layered production of many contemporary hip-hop records, The Low End Theory focuses on space and simplicity, with deep basslines and crisp drum patterns.
Q-Tip (Kamaal Ibn John Fareed) and Phife Dawg (Malik Taylor) trade verses over the jazzy instrumentals, creating a unique vocal dynamic, where Q-Tip’s smooth, philosophical tone contrasts with Phife Dawg’s more playful, energetic style.
Ali Shaheed Muhammad handled the DJing and production, contributing to the overall smooth, laid-back vibe of the album.

Lyrically, The Low End Theory covers a wide range of topics, including Afrocentricity, Black identity, the music industry, and the state of hip-hop culture at the time.
The album is both introspective and socially conscious, with songs like “Excursions” reflecting on the evolution of hip-hop and its roots in jazz, while “Check the Rhime” is a more playful celebration of the group’s rise in the rap scene.
“Jazz (We’ve Got)” explicitly pays homage to the connection between hip-hop and jazz, reinforcing the album’s central theme of blending the two genres.

"Excursions" – The opening track, which features Q-Tip reflecting on the history of music and the parallels between jazz and hip-hop. It sets the tone for the album’s jazz-influenced sound.
"Check the Rhime" – One of the album’s lead singles, this track is an upbeat, braggadocious song that showcases the chemistry between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg, with its catchy hook and memorable horn sample.
"Scenario" – A high-energy posse cut featuring Leaders of the New School, including a young Busta Rhymes, who delivers one of his most iconic verses. The song is a standout due to its explosive energy and rapid-fire lyricism.
"Jazz (We’ve Got)" – This track serves as a tribute to the connection between jazz and hip-hop, with a smooth, mellow beat that perfectly complements Q-Tip and Phife Dawg’s lyrical flows.
"Butter" – A Phife Dawg showcase, this track finds him reflecting on relationships with wit and humor, over a funky, bass-heavy beat.

The Low End Theory was not just a commercial success, reaching #45 on the Billboard 200, but it also had a profound influence on the direction of 90s hip-hop. Its emphasis on live instrumentation and jazz influences inspired countless artists, including The Roots, Common, and Kendrick Lamar.
The album is widely considered one of the best hip-hop albums of all time, often appearing in "greatest albums" lists. It was instrumental in defining the alternative rap movement and proved that hip-hop could be both musically sophisticated and commercially viable.
The fusion of jazz and hip-hop on The Low End Theory created a template for the genre’s future evolution, especially with its influence on the development of neo-soul and jazz rap in the following years.

The Low End Theory is a landmark album that changed the landscape of hip-hop. Its minimalist production, jazz influences, and thoughtful lyricism continue to resonate today, and its impact on the genre remains undeniable. A Tribe Called Quest created a timeless record that pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, showing that the genre could be introspective, artistic, and intellectually engaging while still maintaining mass appeal.

Seam split. Original inner sleeve. Original EU pressing. Price tag.

Record has many hairlines and surface marks, but no deep scratches, plays without skipping. Cover has ring wear, but no seam splits.

Still in shrink but opened. Record 1 is slightly warped but still enjoyable.

Still in shrink but opened. Tiny wear. Vinyl is close to NM. Reissue.

After a very, very long time this masterpiece of one of our all-time favorite groups is back on wax. Thank you, vinyl god.