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Limited edition vinyl!
"Kiss The Sky" is Melinda Camille, John Robinson, and Pat Van Dyke; a collective of soulful singer/songwriter, veteran MC, and multi-instrumentalist. Funky organic production, intelligent wordplay, and soulful songwriting define the group's sound.
"Kiss The Sky" is Melinda Camille, John Robinson, and Pat Van Dyke; a collective of soulful singer/songwriter, veteran MC, and multi-instrumentalist which first came to fruition in 2012 on the B-Side of the Cotter Records' release "Miles & Trane" from John Robinson & PVD. The organic chemistry between the 3 artists continued to flourish on the "Modern Vintage" LP as Camille lent her vocals and songwriting skills to 3 tracks from JR & PVD's full length debut.
Here with "Sugar Pie" b/w "Glory", we witness the formal debut of the project from the 3 artists now known as "Kiss The Sky".
Recorded in Jersey City off and on over the course of the past few years, these two tracks introduce the world to what's to come from "Kiss The Sky". Funky organic production, intelligent wordplay, and soulful songwriting define the group's sound.

"Kiss The Sky" is Melinda Camille, John Robinson, and Pat Van Dyke; a collective of soulful singer/songwriter, veteran MC, and multi-instrumentalist. Funky organic production, intelligent wordplay, and soulful songwriting define the group's sound.

"Kiss The Sky" is Melinda Camille, John Robinson, and Pat Van Dyke; a collective of soulful singer/songwriter, veteran MC, and multi-instrumentalist which first came to fruition in 2012 on the B-Side of the Cotter Records' release "Miles & Trane" from John Robinson & PVD. The organic chemistry between the 3 artists continued to flourish on the "Modern Vintage" LP as Camille lent her vocals and songwriting skills to 3 tracks from JR & PVD's full length debut.

Here with "Sugar Pie" b/w "Glory", we witness the formal debut of the project from the 3 artists now known as "Kiss The Sky".

Recorded in Jersey City off and on over the course of the past few years, these two tracks introduce the world to what's to come from "Kiss The Sky". Funky organic production, intelligent wordplay, and soulful songwriting define the group's sound.

Strictly limited edition of 150 copies on opaque blue vinyl!
Only one copy per customer!
"Kiss The Sky" is Melinda Camille, John Robinson, and Pat Van Dyke; a collective of soulful singer/songwriter, veteran MC, and multi-instrumentalist. Funky organic production, intelligent wordplay, and soulful songwriting define the group's sound.
"Kiss The Sky" is Melinda Camille, John Robinson, and Pat Van Dyke; a collective of soulful singer/songwriter, veteran MC, and multi-instrumentalist which first came to fruition in 2012 on the B-Side of the Cotter Records' release "Miles & Trane" from John Robinson & PVD. The organic chemistry between the 3 artists continued to flourish on the "Modern Vintage" LP as Camille lent her vocals and songwriting skills to 3 tracks from JR & PVD's full length debut.
Here with "Sugar Pie" b/w "Glory", we witness the formal debut of the project from the 3 artists now known as "Kiss The Sky".
Recorded in Jersey City off and on over the course of the past few years, these two tracks introduce the world to what's to come from "Kiss The Sky". Funky organic production, intelligent wordplay, and soulful songwriting define the group's sound.

Shabazz The Disciple, hailing from the Red Hook Houses in Brooklyn, NY dominated the Golden Era of Hip Hop alongside his Wu-Tang family. Exploding on the scene in 1994 with the Gravediggaz on their debut single "Diary Of A Madman". He also Co-founded the group Sunz Of Man and coined the group name and concept T.H.U.G. ANGELZ, as well as solo with his groundbreaking "Death Be The Penalty" single in 1995 (Penalty Records) and several of other singles, guest appearances and releases throughout the late 1990s into the 2000s.

Now in 2019 he re-enters the combination to his 1994 vault of GOLD BARZ, opening the safe to offer you 2 unreleased gemstonez: "Hip Hop Casino" and "Solemn Oath". Shabazz states: "I'm putting my blue chips on the table and controlling the bank on this bet, Hip Hop is a gamble like being in the casino! We bet big to win big!! It was a Solemn Oath I made to myself to never gamble on the streets again, like in the 80's!! Wingz Up!!"

Ragoo Records is proud to welcome the outstanding DJ, producer and record collector Biga for Rgt07, the seventh installment of the cassette series curated by the label. "Meltin' Brain Loops" is a dope collection of beats composed in the scorching late May and early June of 2022. These 23 tracks are the result of a couple of weeks of studio time that Biga dedicated specifically to the rhythms. As the producer directly explains, "using exclusively an MPC, I developed the tracks starting right from the drums. I wanted the drums and bass to have a certain kind of groove, only inserting the samples later, just for the joy of studying and for the fun of twisting my workflow out of the comfort zone." While Biga's beats are hosted on side A, side B includes 10 creamy remixes packaged by JayBee Vibes, Astratto, Odeeno, J. Raise, Jr, Hzha, Looppolo, MstkVibes & Loodo, F.o.x, Pentola, Masneo.

FEATURES AN EXCLUSIVE EMBOSSED COVER, PLUS PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED INSTRUMENTALS
FEATURING: PUSHA T, BLACK THOUGHT, JADAKISS, CONWAY THE MACHINE, RJ PAYNE AND MORE PLUS BEATS BY: ALCHEMIST, DARINGER, DJ SHAY AND MORE

Griselda Records' own Benny The Butcher released his Tana Talk 3 project in the winter of 2018, the album was produced entirely by Griselda mainstay Daringer and Alchemist and included appearances from his Griselda/Shady Records label-mates Westside Gunn and Conway and Royce 5’9” and Meyhem Lauren.

Tana Talk 3 peaked at #4 on Apple’s Hip-Hop chart upon its release and was a mainstay on the charts for months after. Commercial success aside, the album also resulted in tremendous critical acclaim, as it was included in “Best of 2018” lists from Pitchfork, Complex & HipHopWired which crowned Tana Talk 3 as its favorite album of 2018 and a nod from Complex as one of its 20 Rappers to watch for 2019.

For further proof Benny’s star is on the rise, he was one of a select few artists to be invited by J. Cole to participate in the recording sessions for Dreamville’s forthcoming Revenge Of The Dreamers III compilation and he recently made “Headlines” alongside his Griselda brethren Westside Gunn and Conway guesting on DJ Premier’s new single.

The Plugs I Met, which was released on compact disc in late July, features collaborations with Pusha T, Jadakiss, Conway, RJ Payne, Alchemist and Daringer. Benny also released the projects first single, “18 Wheeler,” which features Pusha T. Now under the management of Roc Nation, The Plugs I Met is further proof that the future is now for Benny The Butcher.

“The anticipation for this project is crazy. I came out with Tana Talk 3 and it’s a classic and everybody wants to see what I am going to do next. People are on my dick, you can bet that. It’s like they are pitting me against myself” Benny exclaimed to Complex. “People are waiting to see if I will fail, or if I will succeed. Trust me, I delivered with The Plugs I Met; I took my time with it. It’s fucking crazy!"

To celebrate the 25th Anniversary on 25th March 2022, the diamond-certified Grammy®-nominated double-disc opus will be released as a 25th Anniversary Super Deluxe Box Set on June 10, 2022. The Life After Death 25th Anniversary Super Deluxe Boxed Set consists of 8-LPs and a commemorative booklet featuring rare photos from the album cover shoot, liner notes by Sheldon Pearce, and exclusive reflections from members of the team who worked on the original album release. In addition to the original album, it includes the Hypnotize 12”, Mo Money Mo Problems 12”, Sky’s The Limit 12”, and Nasty Boy 12”.


Life After Death features 112, Jay-Z, Lil’ Kim, Ma$e, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony and Too $hort, along with tracks like “Kick In The Door,” “What’s Beef,” “Notorious Thugs,” “Ten Crack Commandments” and “Sky’s The Limit,”. The album hit #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and the US Top R&B/Hip Hop chart. It went diamond in the U.S. alone, double platinum in Canada, and platinum in the UK. The album received a Grammy® nomination in the category of “Best Rap Album.” “Hypnotize” earned a Grammy® nomination for “Best Rap Solo Performance,” and “Mo Money Mo Problems” was nominated for “Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.” Among dozens of lists and retrospectives, Rolling Stone touted Life After Death among its coveted “The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.” The Riaa has awarded the album a Diamond Certification for more than 5 million copies sold of the double-LP.

With Retropolitan, Skyzoo’s most recent collaborative project with Pete Rock, he got to live out a dream, as two generations of legendary native New Yorkers aligned to create an album that was both a love letter and a wakeup call to the city they love. Now, with The Bluest Note, Skyzoo is checking another box on his bucket list. “Since my debut album, I’ve never released a project that didn’t include a moment of jazz influence; with some sort of live instrumentation, something that connected my lyricism with the truest definition of musical lyricism; jazz” Skyzoo commented. “As much as I’ve incorporated my favorite genre of music with my other favorite genre of music, this is the first time I’ve been able to craft an entire project based on jazz production from top to bottom” Skyzoo quipped. “The Bluest Note is a testament to something I’d been longing to do for as far back as I can remember.” In 2017, Sky was touring in Italy and met the Tuff Kong Records team, who recruited Dumbo Station to bring Skyzoo’s vision to life and in June 2019 Skyzoo was in Rome writing, composing and recording music with the talented musicians. “Collaborating with Italy’s renowned jazz band Dumbo Station was an absolute honor. From writing musical arrangements with them and having them bring them to life in the studio in Rome, Italy; it was a perfect union and execution of what I foresaw when I began to sketch out the project. Six songs, as an homage to the classic jazz albums of the genre’s heyday (when LPs were around six tracks total). The Bluest Note is the storytelling and inner-city expressions you’ve come to know and love from me, attached to the jazz orchestration I’m dying to introduce to some and re-introduce to others. Ladies and gentlemen, this is, The Bluest Note…” This is the Black Vinly.

With Retropolitan, Skyzoo’s most recent collaborative project with Pete Rock, he got to live out a dream, as two generations of legendary native New Yorkers aligned to create an album that was both a love letter and a wakeup call to the city they love. Now, with The Bluest Note, Skyzoo is checking another box on his bucket list. “Since my debut album, I’ve never released a project that didn’t include a moment of jazz influence; with some sort of live instrumentation, something that connected my lyricism with the truest definition of musical lyricism; jazz” Skyzoo commented. “As much as I’ve incorporated my favorite genre of music with my other favorite genre of music, this is the first time I’ve been able to craft an entire project based on jazz production from top to bottom” Skyzoo quipped. “The Bluest Note is a testament to something I’d been longing to do for as far back as I can remember.” In 2017, Sky was touring in Italy and met the Tuff Kong Records team, who recruited Dumbo Station to bring Skyzoo’s vision to life and in June 2019 Skyzoo was in Rome writing, composing and recording music with the talented musicians. “Collaborating with Italy’s renowned jazz band Dumbo Station was an absolute honor. From writing musical arrangements with them and having them bring them to life in the studio in Rome, Italy; it was a perfect union and execution of what I foresaw when I began to sketch out the project. Six songs, as an homage to the classic jazz albums of the genre’s heyday (when LPs were around six tracks total). The Bluest Note is the storytelling and inner-city expressions you’ve come to know and love from me, attached to the jazz orchestration I’m dying to introduce to some and re-introduce to others. Ladies and gentlemen, this is, The Bluest Note…”

N.A.I.F. (No Atheists In Foxholes) is the new album from Richmond, CA indie heavyweight Locksmith. The album features Slaine, Ransom, P-Lo, DaBoii, Sa-Roc, Chris Webby, Jon Connor, Iamsu!, Ekoh, Snak The Ripper, and more. Locksmith is a West Coast artist/producer who first gained notoriety in the underground hip hop scene through MTV's MC Freestyle Championship. Lock, along with his group The Frontline, received commercial radio play and began building a regional buzz. But it wasn't until he began his solo career in 2011, that he started to cultivate a loyal fan base. Locksmith has toured with Joe Budden, Murs, & R.A. The Rugged Man, and collaborated with legendary producers 9th Wonder (Stand It) and Ski Beatz (Lock). Lock has been featured on MTV, BET, Sirius XM's Shade 45, Hot 97's "Who's Next?" concert series and all major hip hop blogs, and has dropped dope project after dope project for years.

Black vinyl edition! I am thrilled to share with you the upcoming release of Live Life and Tell Stories, the new album by Figub Brazlevic & John Robinson set to release in the spring of 2023. This album is a celebration of John Robinson's love for storytelling, which has been evident since he was a young child, and his passion for hearing epic storytelling from many of his favorite emcees of the golden era of hip hop.

The connection between Figub Brazlevic and John Robinson is far from a fly-by-night or simply another international internet collaboration. The two met in 2009 during Robinson’s first time touring in Germany, and shortly after, Figub remixed J.R.’s group Scienz Of Life’s Leviathan album for the love and respect of the music. The remixes, which have yet to be released, impressed J.R. and his SOL crew, and he knew he would work together in the future with Figub. That time has come, and the message is clear: Live Life and Tell Stories is a seamless blend of Robinson’s thought-provoking narratives and Brazlevic’s abstract jazzy boombap soundscapes.

This album promises to take listeners on a sonic journey of dope grooves and ill storytelling, where Robinson's unique storytelling abilities are masterfully interwoven with Brazlevic's jazzy, boombap beats. From start to finish, Live Life and Tell Stories is sure to captivate audiences and keep them grooving to its infectious beats.

In an era where the music industry is dominated by short-lived trends, it is refreshing to see two seasoned artists come together to create music that is both timeless and meaningful. This album is a perfect example of what can happen when artists come together to create something truly unique, and I can't wait for its release in the spring of 2023.

So mark your calendars, because Live Life and Tell Stories is set to release in the spring of 2023. This is an album you won't want to miss, so be sure to push play and let Figub Brazlevic & John Robinson take you on a sonic journey of dope grooves and ill storytelling. Let's go!

A child agrees then screams the name. Kid-o-suke. Did you hear that right? The music trickles in. It sounds like it was made in a toy factory. Hold on. Let me reach for the button over there. Childhood memories. The magical sounds of a roundabout sending you to sleep. The wonders of the world seen through eyes that don’t yet fully comprehend and ears that find musical potential in everything. Two kindred souls find each other, distance never the issue, they share and laugh the only way they know how.

The wonderful pixelated world of a video game. Where does reality end and where does the imagination start? Somewhere in the distance an explosion can be heard, or was it a booming bass drum? There are birds singing a crystalline melody. One I heard before, in a dream perhaps. All of a sudden a child exclaims ‘come, let’s go’. Where did he come from? Is he real or another pixelated fragment of imagination?

Yokatta desu. There’s a castle in the sky. Two boys team up to reach it, carried by the power of their dreams. The same dreams that marked their childhood and brought them to be men. If ever there was music worthy of becoming the soundtrack to a Ghibli movie this could be it. There’s a girl asleep on a plastic deer, going around and around. She reminds me of the hand drawn versions of the pixelated heroes of my childhood. I imagine her dreams filled with exciting adventures.

I swear I heard the sounds of Tokyo’s public transport. It told me we’d arrived at Shibuya yet I can’t see the neon bright lights when I look around. Oh well, I’ll just have to imagine them.

It’s an album, so of course it’s real. The music is the result of a desire to create regardless of outcome, for the simple fact that there is a story to tell. People will consume it whichever way they want. Is it this sound or that sound? Does it really matter? Stop for a minute and enjoy the music for what it is. A synthesis of two aesthetics joined not just by a love of music but also a love of the abstract and the childish, the things that remind us we were all young one day and things were simpler. Things like dancing as if no one was looking or making music as if the outcome never mattered.

Kidsuke is a collaborative project between the UK’s Kidkanevil and Japan’s Daisuke Tanabe. Their self-titled debut is released by Project Mooncircle in November 2012 on double colored vinyl LP and digital.

R.I.P. MF DOOM

Underneath his mysterious metal mask, MF DOOM hides the cachet underground legends are made of. After his first group KMD's sophomore album Black Bastards was shelved by Elektra in 1994, and his blood brother Subroc _ one half of the sibling rap duo _ passed away, surviving frontman Zev Love X slowly mutated into the supervillain MC known as MF DOOM, and the rap world is better for it. The 1999 release of Operation: Doomsday marked MF DOOM's official debut, reintroducing a mysterious figure who would soon become one of underground rap's greatest voices. Within its 19 tracks, Operation: Doomsday reveals the confluence of DOOM's tragic past, personal interests and daring creativity. His clever rhymes and remarkable schemes stood out against the landscape, and every sound he touched _ from cartoon theme songs, to `80s soul, to rap classics and more _ got reinterpreted into something brand new and surreal. Decades later, MF DOOM is still celebrated for all facets of his work and influence. In the face of tragedy, DOOM re-infiltrated the rap game on his own terms, and crafted an instant cult classic. Operation: Doomsday stands as a testament to the power of betting on yourself against all odds.

Without a pandemic, you’d now be listening to an album wholly recorded in Cuba with local musicians. Back in 2020, everything was organised, so that in May 2021 we could get started. Yet, the sanitary measures proved to be a fierce adversary, so rather than giving up entirely we decamped to Dakar in October the same year – a compromise that ended up being a positive event in itself.
Cuba has a long African history. Under mass enslavement and the Transatlantic trade, Africans were forced from their homelands, against their will, taking their music along with them. Merging throughout the centuries, taking on European influences, led to the birth of a distinctive Afro-Cuban musical tradition. Highly percussive, brass-based, simmering, full of danceable rhythms. The spirit etched into thousands of recordings, forever turning towards Africa. The departure point here is not to keep things the same. Rather, a return to the source enacts a loop – much the same as those providing the foundations for hip-hop beats.
The flame when it’s re-lit illuminates everything. Thanks to the Senegalese musicians in Dakar, the Cubans who crossed the Atlantic to join us and my usual family of musicians, this music – a cross-section of covers and original compositions - exists as a homage to Afro-Cuban music. Made in Africa, in Senegal. Three worlds, three languages, three colours. Recorded over 17 days, non-stop, germinating the seed born in Cuba at the end of 2020 so that the most beautiful fruits might be cultivated in Dakar, 2022.
When the world doesn’t seem big enough, we look up to the sky where even the blackness is lit up, where those I loved who are now gone shine as stars, shining as brightly as all the others. Each time I think I’m not going to make it; I recall the star of my mother. Then the path becomes clear.
Pandemic, visa problems, cultural clashes, bank transfers that didn’t go through, a fractured foot – this project sometimes felt like a series of accumulated challenges. The only thing linking us, a shared love for the music, each of us invoking our personal star and all that we have overcome.
In this way, the music is born as a call to our stars.

SWE in collaboration with Dust & Dope are excited to announce the release of legendary Nola rapper/producer Ice Mike's debut "True 2 Da Game!" originally released back in 1992 on cassette only. All tracks were taken from the OG Dats to give you top notch quality. Let's get into the album a little deeper...



Fresh off the heels of producing for other New Orleans West Bank artists such as Bust Down and Mobo Records, “True 2 Da Game!” is the first full-length album from legendary New Orleans hip-hop pioneer Ice Mike. The follow-up to his 1991 debut as a solo artist is almost entirely self-produced (except for some co-production with DJ Lowdown & 8-ball The DJ). The writing, production, scratching, mixing, concepts, vocal and edit arrangements, piano and drum overdubs, and performances were all done by one man - Ice Mike. This feat is more impressive considering Ice Mike arranged and spliced the studio masters by hand with a razor blade and splicing tape, resulting in a level of mixing and editing that most couldn’t achieve until digital software was invented for computers.



The tracklist has been re-arranged and improved. An extra track has been added and the last 2 tracks of the original tracklist have been replaced. The love song "Good 2 U" and the shoutout outro "Atdasamtyme!" have been cut. Here's what Ice Mike had to say about "Good 2 U": "We were experimenting. I was the wrong artist to record it. Good song but, at the time I was recording all my ideas and back then i was trying to fill up the tape minutes as much as possible for the people with music in their mitsubishi trucks and somehow chose that one."



The Album also introduces Jr. Mack, Da Playa Bum & Kock Desil as "The Disturbed Young Hustlaz" on the the hard hitting "Still A WestBank Thang". This track received radio play back in the days and was used at live shows but never actually made it to an album due to street beef. "I Got Game" which originally was the B-Side of the "Doin' My Thang" 12" was added as well and then we have another previously unreleased gem called "Bad Attitude" which will surely please everyone.



From the raw raps on ‘Flow Down’ and ‘Bring Da Heat’, to the Pimptations-esque precursors ‘Fnalluslipnikkashoes’ and ‘Da Mack Game’, to the lyrically literal dope rhymes in ‘Man-N-Da-Hole’, “True 2 Da Game!” is an album packing a variety of concepts presented with polished analog production.



For the first time on vinyl, this edition will come housed in a beautiful gatefold edition and will be limited to only 250 copies. There will be 100 copies on transparent yellow vinyl and 150 copies on black vinyl.

SWE in collaboration with Dust & Dope are excited to announce the release of legendary Nola rapper/producer Ice Mike's debut "True 2 Da Game!" originally released back in 1992 on cassette only. All tracks were taken from the OG Dats to give you top notch quality. Let's get into the album a little deeper...



Fresh off the heels of producing for other New Orleans West Bank artists such as Bust Down and Mobo Records, “True 2 Da Game!” is the first full-length album from legendary New Orleans hip-hop pioneer Ice Mike. The follow-up to his 1991 debut as a solo artist is almost entirely self-produced (except for some co-production with DJ Lowdown & 8-ball The DJ). The writing, production, scratching, mixing, concepts, vocal and edit arrangements, piano and drum overdubs, and performances were all done by one man - Ice Mike. This feat is more impressive considering Ice Mike arranged and spliced the studio masters by hand with a razor blade and splicing tape, resulting in a level of mixing and editing that most couldn’t achieve until digital software was invented for computers.



The tracklist has been re-arranged and improved. An extra track has been added and the last 2 tracks of the original tracklist have been replaced. The love song "Good 2 U" and the shoutout outro "Atdasamtyme!" have been cut. Here's what Ice Mike had to say about "Good 2 U": "We were experimenting. I was the wrong artist to record it. Good song but, at the time I was recording all my ideas and back then i was trying to fill up the tape minutes as much as possible for the people with music in their mitsubishi trucks and somehow chose that one."



The Album also introduces Jr. Mack, Da Playa Bum & Kock Desil as "The Disturbed Young Hustlaz" on the the hard hitting "Still A WestBank Thang". This track received radio play back in the days and was used at live shows but never actually made it to an album due to street beef. "I Got Game" which originally was the B-Side of the "Doin' My Thang" 12" was added as well and then we have another previously unreleased gem called "Bad Attitude" which will surely please everyone.



From the raw raps on ‘Flow Down’ and ‘Bring Da Heat’, to the Pimptations-esque precursors ‘Fnalluslipnikkashoes’ and ‘Da Mack Game’, to the lyrically literal dope rhymes in ‘Man-N-Da-Hole’, “True 2 Da Game!” is an album packing a variety of concepts presented with polished analog production.



For the first time on vinyl, this edition will come housed in a beautiful gatefold edition and will be limited to only 250 copies. There will be 100 copies on transparent yellow vinyl and 150 copies on black vinyl.

It is often difficult to describe in words the emotion that is involved in creative ventures. This is one of those situations. When we decided to record the new album “International Summers” we wondered how we could possibly capture the deep and warm sensation that lies within the heart and souls of the people world round. John Robinson and Lewis Parker both hold impressive discographies the easily boast a decade plus of gems delivered to the masses wrapped in passion, love and integrity. John is the perfect example of still waters run deep, his much reserved and calm façade belies the excitement and the imagination that explodes when he literally loses himself in the rhymes and let thoughts channel from a higher place. Lewis is a master craftsman, and his craft is one of hypnotism, seduction and satisfaction all accomplished via his bewitching SP 1200 and other Classic vintage analog machinery, which gives birth right to his Golden Sound. JR and LP are the oracles of that warmth the has been missing in the world of music and leaving so many cold and lonely searching for that same substance that forced them to fall in Love with the music in the first place! International Summers marks the continuing journey that can’t be limited to a certain place nor season, so fasten your seatbelts yall! Let’s RIDE!
The album includes features by StaHHr, Cymarshall Law, 4RCE, Renee Neufville, Angelz INC., East Koast, Tah Born, I.D. 4 Windz & Dynas.

HHV Records Exclusive colored edition limited to 300 copies.

Soul is more than a sound. It is a timeless idea and an immortal condition. It can’t be borrowed or traded, bequeathed or imitated (no matter how much they try). Soul isn’t the blues, but the best blues has soul. Hip-Hop isn’t soul, but it’s the most fundamental component of its DNA. R&B is the genre, but soul is the yearning, the lust, the regret. Without soul, love is merely sex. With it, you get something like Lovesick. Lovesick is a collaboration between the 3x Grammy-nominated singer Raheem DeVaughn and the legendary hip-hop producer, Apollo Brown, best known for making hip-hop so grimy that it permanently lodges in your lungs and underneath your fingernails. It is a work of startling beauty, a blend of modern R&B, classic soul, and guttural funk that recalls Smokey Robinson, Al Green, and Marvin Gaye. Yet it doesn’t sound out of step alongside DeVaughn’s peers The-Dream, Anderson.Paak, and Miguel. It is an album that bears the echoes of Jodeci and James Brown, but it is ultimately the clarion vision of two masters of their respective forms.
Released on Mello Music, Lovesick is a stylistic departure from Apollo Brown’s coldblooded 21st century boom-bap, but it shouldn’t come as a shock considering his historical skill at soulful sample chopping. Still, it’s testament to the Michigan native’s versatility and emotional depth; he has turned a sonic left turn into an eternal groove -- an expansion that feels reminiscent of DJ Premier producing for D’Angelo, Salaam Remi collaborating with Amy Winehouse, J Dilla’s bible material with Erykah Badu, or more recently, Knxlwdge’s NxWorries project with .Paak.
Credit DeVaughn for making the extraordinary feel effortless. In Lovesick, the Love King has built a vessel to transport you to a different, better time. It is a tribute to the artists who came before him: all those aforementioned names, plus Parliament and Prince. Listening to the lead single, “When a Man,” you intuit the sweat and soulful anguish of the hardest working man in show business, but also float from Apollo’s head nod to A Tribe Called Quest’s “Luck of Lucien.” The post-modern commentary seductively fused into a warm-hearted nostalgia. “If I Made Love to You” finds DeVaughn telling his lover that he’ll play all the slow jams and quiet storm ballads for them, before unleashing a falsetto that can stop space and time. If you play this at the proper volume on the right system, the aromatic candles and incense will light themselves, and the sheets will turn to 10,000 thread count silk. A form of bedroom gospel. On “Just Fall in Love,” DeVaughn grapples with the carnal double standards that apply to men and women. For the third act, Compton’s Westside Boogie, unleashes a hyper-melodic rap lamentation, in search of loyalty, healing, and love. Elsewhere, on the album, Skyzoo and 3D Na’Tee contribute impressive lyrical 16s that are seamlessly interwoven into its satin tapestry.

For the legendary DeVaughn, it further cements his stature as one of the finest crooners of his generation. The DMV raised singer has sold hundreds of thousands of records, won BET Awards and been nominated for three Grammys, but this stands among his finest work. He has conjured the perfect record for the Sunday backyard BBQ and for riding in the car with the object of your affections, the ideal nocturnal soundtrack for when it’s time to lower the lights. For Brown, this is a panoramic expansion that shows the full range of his gifts. It is the home cooked meal, the perfectly rolled joint, soft lighting, a pledge to love and fidelity, and all the struggles with temptation. It is soul, as smooth and supernatural as it gets.

Releasing now for well over a decade - Neue Grafik: known to friends as Fred, has successfully transplanted from Parisian rookie to one- man London Institution. Beginning as a solo producer and DJ,Fred spread his wings upon relocating to South London - at first with his Neue Grafik Ensemble and later with his now iconic twice-weekly Orii Jam - the latter of which has given agency to an entire new generation of musicians; spawning an aesthetic, nurturing a unique sound and becoming a launchpad for countless artists.

Dalston Tape Volume 1 is Fred’s attempt to fall back in love with beatmaking - taking it back to the roots of where the project began. I say “attempt” because he’s simply learnt too much and made too many friends along the way to make a mere DIY beat tape. Since his early MPC-led productions on Parisian label, Beat X Changers, Fred has learnt to play the keys to a concert hall standard, he has become proficient in double bass and built up a dense network of collaborators who he has composed, recorded, engineered and produced for both at home in SE London and in the iconic Total Refreshment Centre Studios in Dalston.

This experience adds unavoidable dimensions to his toolbox - resulting in something more akin to a miniature-magnum-opus than a simple beat-tape.

Yes, we hear the influences of Pete Rock, Mad Lib, J Dilla and Al Dobson Jr but we also hear the musicality of D’Aneglo, James Blake and live contributions from an ever growing army of young graduates of the Orii School.

It is often difficult to describe in words the emotion that is involved in creative ventures. This is one of those situations. When we decided to record the new album “International Summers” we wondered how we could possibly capture the deep and warm sensation that lies within the heart and souls of the people world round. John Robinson and Lewis Parker both hold impressive discographies the easily boast a decade plus of gems delivered to the masses wrapped in passion, love and integrity. John is the perfect example of still waters run deep, his much reserved and calm façade belies the excitement and the imagination that explodes when he literally loses himself in the rhymes and let thoughts channel from a higher place. Lewis is a master craftsman, and his craft is one of hypnotism, seduction and satisfaction all accomplished via his bewitching SP 1200 and other Classic vintage analog machinery, which gives birth right to his Golden Sound. JR and LP are the oracles of that warmth the has been missing in the world of music and leaving so many cold and lonely searching for that same substance that forced them to fall in Love with the music in the first place! International Summers marks the continuing journey that can’t be limited to a certain place nor season, so fasten your seatbelts yall! Let’s RIDE!
The Bonus Cassette includes the whole album as Instrumental Version!
The album includes features by StaHHr, Cymarshall Law, 4RCE, Renee Neufville, Angelz INC., East Koast, Tah Born, I.D. 4 Windz & Dynas.

green vinyl

After the release of debut record Gris-Gris, Dr. John found himself in a strange and awkward position. The US was deep into the Vietnam War, and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy were fresh in the public memory. On top of that, Dr. John was being pursued by various Los Angeles authorities for a handful of criminal offenses. It was, in his own words: "a heavy time for me." Much like Sly & The Family Stone's There's A Riot Goin' On, Dr. John's follow-up album Babylon would be a reflection of the chaotic and tumultuous time that he was living in. He and band dove deeper into the voodoo-inflected psychedelic rock and R&B of Gris-Gris, while touching upon elements of free jazz and Captain Beefheart-style avant garde. As with his debut record, production was handled by the legendary Harold Battiste, and much of the same session personnel who performed on it returned for Babylon, including Plas Johnson on saxophone, Alvin Robinson on guitar, and backing vocals from Jessie Hill, Shirley Goodman, and Tami Lynn. Babylon stands out as one of Dr. John's most overtly political albums, and is a singularly murky and darkly entrancing record in his discography. A psychedelic swamp of apocalyptic lyrical content, drunk, disorienting experimentation, and a fascinating entry into Dr. John's catalogue well-worthy of his expansive legacy. Get On Down is all too eager to reissue this unique record for Record Store Day Black Friday, which has not been repressed on vinyl in over 40 years. In keeping with the album's hallucinogenic sound, it is presented on trippy splattercolored vinyl, and housed in a deluxe gatefold jacket.Shuggie Diamonds is my ‘singing’ and ‘more soulful’ alter ego, so the title The Diamond Report is based off that. The nickname was given to me by my brother, the late, great Guru. My music is also a form of me dropping jewels; I have always been a diamond in the rough.” - Big Shug on his new album, The Diamond Report Boston rap stalwart Big Shug blends equal parts raw soul and grimy street rap on The Diamond Report, an album that’s bursting with life and character from an emcee who exudes longevity. With decades in the game, the Gang Starr Foundation co-founder continues to sound hungry and passionate with his art, and it’s led to one of his strongest album showings yet. After delivering smooth vocals on the opening track, Shug hits your ear like a freight train on the bombastic “EMF” that’s produced by longtime collaborator DJ Premier. A lyrical middle-finger to “every motherf*cker” who’s ever doubted or crossed him, the single also received the video treatment from director Myster DL. It puts the focus directly on Shug and his rhymes, and it actually sets the tone for the remainder of The Diamond Report. At 20 tracks deep, the album plays like a highlight reel of all of Shug’s artistic strengths. On “Doing My Sh*t,” he kicks back and oozes confidence as he croons over the Thir(13)teen-produced instrumental. And then on the Lil Fame-produced “Keep It Cool,” he’s back in bruiser mode alongside M-Dot, B.A.M and International Dreez. Shug also embodies the wise hip-hop sage on several cuts, including standouts “Old Man Rapper” and closer “You Ain’t About It.” But it’s on the lyrically charged “Stay The Course” that everything hits hardest. With Elevated Music’s snarling beat as his canvas, Shug takes aim at Trump, big ups Colin Kaepernick, and spits rewind-worthy bars like: “I still hustle, that’s how I was raised/ When I started out they said rap was a phase/ 20 years later, I still get paid/ While some of y’all clowns, still get played.” It’s a powerful reminder of exactly who Shug is, where he comes from, why he’s still here, and why everyone needs to be paying attention. To paraphrase the man himself, it may be 20 years later, but Shug’s pen is as sharp and necessary as ever.

(New York, NY – October 23) Celebrated hip-hop luminary, Busta Rhymes, renowned for his lyrical brilliance and enduring contributions to the genre, has just unveiled a groundbreaking announcement in an exclusive in-studio film clip. The iconic MC is gearing up to release his long-anticipated new studio album, “BLOCKBUSTA,” in partnership with an exceptional team who bring an unprecedented amount of star power as project curators. You can’t get a mind squad with any more cultural equity than Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, Swizz Beatz and Busta Rhymes himself. All serve as Executive Producers on “BLOCKBUSTA.”

In the video, wizz Beatz, proudly introduces the extraordinary alliance working with Busta Rhymes on “BLOCKBUSTA.” There’s Pharrell Williams, who he refers to as “The Pharaoh,” Timbaland, who he calls “The King,” and Swizz Beatz humbly refers to himself as “The Student.” All three super producers also helm tracks on the album in addition to their executive duties. This collaboration of four of hip-hop’s most prolific and celebrated heavyweights is poised to give rise to a dynamic masterpiece, destined to be embraced by fans across the globe. The LP is to be released on Friday November 24, 2023, by way of Busta Rhymes label, The Conglomerate Entertainment distributed by Epic Records/Sony Music Entertainment. For the megastars joining forces with their close friend Busta Rhymes, working on

“BLOCKBUSTA” was a labor of love and brotherhood Timbaland expressed his gratitude, in the film clip stating to Bus, “I’m so grateful that you chose me to be a part of your legacy.” Pharrell passionately added to Busta “You really feel illuminated; this illumination is good because I think people are going to be able to get and feel that.” Their enthusiasm is palpable, heralding the launch of a historic musical endeavor. The year 2023 has been a monumental year for Busta Rhymes, as he received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the B.E.T Awards. This accolade celebrated his heralded legacy over the years and his continued impact on the world of entertainment. Busta Rhymes, accompanied by five of his six children, graced the awards show and the red carpet, making it a heartwarming, family-centered celebration. As anticipation continues to mount for “BLOCKBUSTA,” one of the album’s tracks, “Beach Ball,” featuring the emerging femcee BIA, has garnered significant attention in the run-up to the 2024 Grammy Awards. It is under consideration in multiple Grammy categories, including Song of the Year, Record of the Year, Best Rap Performance, and Best Music Video, further cementing Busta Rhymes’ legacy as a dominant force in hip-hop. Busta’s latest single is “Luxury Life” featuring Coi Leray. The song, produced by Swizz Beatz and Busta Rhymes, finds both MCs speaking their clout while providing a banger to put any club into overdrive. Fans have been and are continuing to go into frenzy from seeing Busta Rhymes, live as well. Busta and his family Spliff Star and DJ Scratchator are currently overseas with headliner 50 Cent as part of “The Final Lap Tour.” After selling out everywhere in the U.S. this past summer and into fall, the acclaimed 90 city outing has gone international, exciting ticket holders in foreign countries.

It may have taken the Notorious B.I.G. a few years to follow up his milestone debut, Ready to Die (1994), with another album, but when he did return with Life After Death in 1997, he did so in a huge way. The ambitious album, intended as somewhat of a sequel to Ready to Die, picking up where its predecessor left off, sprawled across the span of two discs, each filled with music, 24 songs in all. You'd expect any album this sprawling to include some lackluster filler. That's not really the case with Life After Death, however. Like 2Pac's All Eyez on Me from a year before, an obvious influence, Biggie's album made extensive use of various producers -- DJ Premier, Easy Mo Bee, Clark Kent, RZA, and more of New York's finest -- resulting in a diverse, eclectic array of songs. Plus, Biggie similarly brought in various guest rappers -- Jay-Z, Lil' Kim, Bone Thugs, Too $hort, L.O.X., Mase -- a few vocalists -- R. Kelly, Angela Winbush, 112 -- and, of course, Puff Daddy, who is much more omnipresent here than on Ready to Die, where he mostly remained on the sidelines. It's perhaps Puffy himself to thank for this album's biggest hits: "Mo Money Mo Problems," "Hypnotize," "Sky's the Limit," three songs that definitely owe much to his pop touch. There's still plenty of the gangsta tales on Life After Death that won Biggie so much admiration on the streets, but it's the pop-laced songs that stand out as highlights. In hindsight, Biggie couldn't have ended his career with a more fitting album than Life After Death. Over the course of only two albums, he achieved every success imaginable, perhaps none greater than this unabashedly over-reaching success. Ready to Die is a milestone album, for sure, but it's nowhere near as extravagant or epic as Life After Death. - allmusic.com

With I Will Make a Baby in this Damn Economy, Fat Tony embodies the kind of quixotic figure he would rap about; a singular entity who’s motivated, confident, and hungry; a perpetual-motion-machine locked in a staring contest with his country. It’s the latest album in his catalog produced entirely by L.A-based producer Taydex since 2020’s Wake Up. Later that same year Fat Tony released Exotica, and ever since he’s demonstrated he is in his own lane as a professional rapper with the mind of a magician, as quick to conjure an image as pull it out from under you, deftly manoeuvring through so many details and references a listener feels as if they have witnessed the work of an illusionist. He paints these canvases inside of songs that rarely spill past three minutes; they’re pocket-sized diaries replete with acute observations, character studies, microdoses of storytelling, and single-minded ruminations on a topic that bud, blossom, and fade before too long. Fat Tony & Taydex’s I Will Make a Baby in this Damn Economy cements Tony’s status as someone whose albums are not so much lyrically-lyrical as they are picaresque.

As with any Fat Tony project, the bars are tight as ever, but are so fluid for the 34-year-old it’s almost easy to take for granted the details, warmth, and humanity inside his free-associative tales of day-one friends who’ve passed, edgelord grifters who want to spit game, and nights on ketamine. Taydex’s production sprints through disparate yet simpatico styles, dipping its toes into Pi’erre Bourne-esque bass (see lead single “Spectacular”), house (“Loosen Up”), and even hyperpop. Meditations on loss and grief are woven throughout, but Tony throws a few curveballs as well: Consider “Alexis,” which sweetly reflects on a long-term platonic friendship. Taydex finds a Teddy Riley-indebted New Jack Swing groove just deep enough for the feeling to land and underlines the song’s sincere candor. This is the appeal of Fat Tony writ-large: his boisterous voice and genial personality invite you to the party, then you stick around to hear what he’s saying, which is frequently more introspective and complex than one assumes.

Written and recorded in Taydex’s new studio in North Hollywood, Tony says, “We had much more freedom and flexibility in making this album and you can hear it. It felt like a family project.” If the album is comfortable and loose, it is also dense and substantial. The album’s final two tracks contextualize the immediacy of what came before it—the mezcal with ices drank, Paul Wall swangin’ through to drop knowledge, the Polaris Prize-winning rapper Cadence Weapon providing a vibe check. “Make a Baby” accounts for Tony who’s seen everything, and knows he’s met the one to be a father with, and yet chooses to take his time to get it done. Taydex’s beat recalls turn-of-the-century R&B and the millennial promise of an endless good time. Sombre closer “Jasper, TX” is Tony coming to grips with the story of James Byrd, Jr., a Black man from East Texas dragged to his death by three white supremacists in 1998. These songs are not only trademarks of Tony’s fastidious rapping—they are deeply personal examples of his approach to artistry and life itself, where every decision is made in the shadow of history.

It’s here the mission statement of I Will Make a Baby in this Damn Economy comes into focus—you get the sense he means it, he’s ready for it, he’ll fight for it. He’s waiting to take the world at its word.

Xardinal Coffee is a debut album that is a strikingly contemporary record of slick hip hop, rich textures, idiosyncratic grooves and electronic-tinged wonky R&B. It’s an album that feels intricate and busy but also manages to retain a sense of space and looseness, allowing hypnotic rhythms to unfurl with grace. Exum, aka Antone Chavez Exum Jr. credits the 'genius' of his two producers, Erik Samkopf and Dex Barstad, who he works closely with. Samkopf being the producer responsible for Xardinal Coffee respectively. 'Sam and I don’t really like doing anything that doesn’t have an ückean effect. We’re not from here you know, we’re just getting adjusted’, says Exum of the album’s eclectic sonic palate. 'We love to push the envelope on what is considered quirky, but try not to think about it too much. If me and another are walking down a street, whose going to be first to try something spectacular? Them. My walk will speak.’

However, any sense of weirdness is also married with an infectious and accessible quality. Tracks such as Arrest the Dancer - 'a David Bowie/Lady Gaga-type beat we got from YouTube by a producer named Raixsa' - comes alive with an irresistible funk strut, almost recalling Prince in the swaggering bounce of it. On top of this, Exum’s vocals offer versatility and flexibility, moving from caramel smooth croons to tight rap flows and to enthusiastic bursts of singing.

A sense of texture is palpable throughout too. Portabella Mushroom was recorded on a rare magic mushrooms trip and retains a lysergic and psychedelic quality, sucking the listener up into its swirling atmospheres. Whereas the sparse, minimal and slightly eerie beats of Wolves Eat Wolves was recorded in pitch black and the song takes on that kind of crepuscular vibe, which interspersed with the song’s dark lyrical content - touching upon sex trafficking - further cements this. ‘I take no form’, the artist says, and his formless nature speaks to his willingness to constantly recreate himself as an artist.

A love of words is also clear in Exum’s delivery, with them being carefully placed and sequenced amidst the ambitious soundscapes of the record. 'Writing is precious to me', he says. 'The vulnerability to bleed on paper. While playing with words, styling the same outfit for the 7th day in a row.'

Initially Exum looked up producer Erik Samkopf to work with when he’d had a temporary falling out with his previous producer Barstad. In love with Samkopf’s work with Pen Gutt, Exum took a punt and flew from his hometown of Richmond, Virginia to Oslo, Norway to work with him. As Exum and Barstad patched things up, Exum and Samkopf were building chemistry, creating something truly unique. 'Dex and Sam never cease to amaze me', he says. 'They’re versed and creative beyond measure, they both have an immense amount of musicality, and most of all, their love for music is sweaty.’

However adding to the legend, Exum took a little detour on his musical journey, spending years as a professional footballer in the NFL, for teams such as the San Francisco 49ers and the Minnesota Vikings. Now leaving that chapter of his life behind, Exum has returned to the true love held dear to him ever since he can remember: music.

Exum is not simply trying his hand at music though; he is crafting every part of his artistic journey, from carefully selected contributors (such as string composer Christian Balvig) and overseas producers, to shaping his own brilliant music videos with directors such as Allison Bunce and Rosabel Ferber. Both of whom occupy creative space in his art world, which goes by the name of ücke. He has effectively created his own musical ecosystem. 'You’ve got to create your own world and live highly in that first', he says. 'Making it inevitable for other worlds to not be touched by what’s vibrating through you. In my world I’m already a massively iconic artist.'

The Tipping Point is the seventh studio album by The Roots, released on July 13, 2004. Named after Malcolm Gladwell's 2000 book "The Tipping Point", which explores how small events can create a significant change in society, the album reflects on similar themes, particularly focusing on pivotal moments in personal and social contexts. The album stands out in The Roots' discography for blending their signature live instrumentation with a more mainstream sound, while still retaining their thought-provoking lyrics and genre-blending approach.

The Tipping Point represents a more commercially oriented sound for The Roots, with a balance of socially conscious lyrics and tracks that experiment with more accessible, radio-friendly production.
The album was a response to pressures from their record label, which wanted more hits, yet it still maintained the group's focus on lyrical depth and musicality.
The album’s production incorporates a mix of live instruments, samples, and digital production, with a stronger emphasis on funk, soul, and rock influences compared to their earlier, more jazz-heavy works.

The album contains a wide range of musical styles, combining live instrumentation with soul, funk, and R&B elements, but also introduces more polished and radio-friendly production than previous albums like Phrenology or Things Fall Apart.
Despite its more polished sound, Questlove's signature drumming and The Roots' musicianship are still prominent, especially in the live instrumentation, which is a hallmark of their music.
Black Thought (Tariq Trotter) remains the lyrical centerpiece, delivering complex, socially aware verses that delve into issues like racial identity, inequality, the commercialization of hip-hop, and personal reflections on fame and success.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Star/Pointro" – The album opens with a meditative introduction, blending Marvin Gaye's classic "Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime" with Black Thought’s reflective lyrics. The song transitions into a brassy, upbeat rhythm, setting the tone for the album’s experimental approach.
"I Don't Care" – A funky, groovy track where Black Thought tackles the pressures of staying relevant and true to his roots in an industry that often prioritizes commercial success over artistry.
"Don't Say Nuthin'" – One of the album's lead singles, driven by a minimalist beat and a dark, hypnotic atmosphere. Black Thought delivers a smooth, almost detached flow, commenting on the challenges of staying silent in a world full of noise and pressure.
"Guns Are Drawn" – A politically charged track with a heavy bassline and a haunting, reflective hook. Black Thought and guest MCs explore themes of social injustice, gun violence, and the struggles faced by Black communities in America.
"Stay Cool" – Built around a playful and funky beat, this track features smooth production with a retro feel, reflecting on maintaining composure and self-awareness in the face of societal pressures and distractions.
"Web" – A standout track, with Black Thought delivering a rapid-fire, no-hook lyrical performance. It's one of the most lyrically dense songs on the album, showcasing Black Thought’s verbal agility and intricate wordplay.
"Boom!" (featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff) – A tribute to classic hip-hop, with Questlove and Black Thought taking listeners back to the days of boom-bap, reminiscent of earlier hip-hop production styles, but with a modern twist. DJ Jazzy Jeff’s scratches add an old-school flavor.

Commercialization of Hip-Hop: Many tracks, such as “Don’t Say Nuthin'” and “I Don’t Care,” reflect The Roots' critique of the way mainstream hip-hop has evolved, focusing more on materialism and less on the artistry that originally defined the genre.
Socio-Political Commentary: The album delves into various social issues, such as gun violence (“Guns Are Drawn”) and racial inequality, exploring the frustrations of systemic problems that plague society.
Personal Reflection and Artistic Integrity: Black Thought explores his role as an artist in the modern music industry, balancing the need to create commercially viable music while staying true to his roots and values. This tension is a recurring theme throughout the album.

Questlove and Richard Nichols handled the bulk of the production, while Scott Storch and Damon Bryson (aka Tuba Gooding Jr.) contributed to various tracks.
DJ Jazzy Jeff made an appearance on “Boom!”, providing turntablism that adds an old-school hip-hop feel to the track.
The production on The Tipping Point is a blend of organic and digital sounds, with live instruments meshing with sampled beats, reflecting The Roots' ability to navigate both the hip-hop underground and the mainstream.

The Tipping Point received generally positive reviews from critics, though it was sometimes viewed as less groundbreaking compared to previous works like Things Fall Apart or Phrenology.
While some critics praised the album’s production and the lyrical depth of Black Thought, others felt that the more commercial sound detracted from the experimental, genre-pushing elements that had characterized The Roots’ earlier work.
The single “Don’t Say Nuthin'” became one of the group’s more successful radio hits, though it was seen as a departure from the soulfulness and live instrumentation of their previous albums.
Commercial Performance:
The album debuted at #4 on the Billboard 200, making it one of The Roots' highest-charting albums at the time, driven by the popularity of singles like “Don’t Say Nuthin'” and “Stay Cool.”
The Tipping Point did not reach the same commercial success as some later albums, but it represented a pivotal moment where The Roots began to bridge their underground sound with broader mainstream appeal.
Legacy and Impact:
The Tipping Point marked an important transition in The Roots’ career, showcasing their ability to adapt to the changing landscape of hip-hop while still maintaining their identity as a live band.
Though not as critically acclaimed as some of their other albums, it remains an important work in The Roots' discography, as it captures a moment where the group was negotiating their place within an increasingly commercialized industry.
Following The Tipping Point, The Roots would take their music in even more experimental and socially conscious directions with albums like Game Theory (2006) and Rising Down (2008), reinforcing their reputation as hip-hop innovators with a distinct voice.
In summary, The Tipping Point is a pivotal album in The Roots' evolution, blending commercial ambition with their trademark musicality and lyricism, and showcasing their ability to balance mainstream appeal with artistic depth.