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Limited edition of 200 copies, only available at HHV

Unlike countless previous campaigns for his established labels Finders Keepers, Twisted Nerve and various other imprints, Andy Votel hasn’t come here today to try to persuade you to buy his latest record. From the quietest stall on a very niche market these late-to-the party U.K rap recordings simply Needed to be released, for sanity’s sake. And if it’s taken 30 years to do so, then so be it. Dirty laundry doesn’t air at the bottom of the basket. Demons don’t exorcise themselves. Even if you’re not a feline fan, this cat is now out of the bag. Emanating from a “prehistoric” existence, near the end of the last millennium, schoolies Votel and his slightly older college mates, were once best recognised in Mancunian clubs and bars as teenage vinyl nerds and bum-fluffed battle-rappers under the collective name “Violators Of The English Language” (which in acronymic form explains Andy’s own exotic pen-name). As steadfast supporters of the 80’s/90’s Brit-core rap scene coming out of London, the multicultural “Violators...” Mancunian accents were perhaps a bridge-too-far to secure dream-job contracts for humble labels like Kold Sweat and Music Of Life. An unlikely constructive meeting with Gang Starr’s DJ Premier (while Andy helped out at a radio station) and playing warm up DJ sets for countless US rap hero’s might have temporarily added inspirational fuel to the fire, but after an active period combining graffiti, rapping, scratching, obsessive record digging and beat making into their daily operations, adulthood eventually began to rear its unwelcome head. The tragic teenage death of one member was shortly followed by another’s young parental commitments, and then came the concept of “proper jobs”, an avenue that Andy would then partly evade by becoming a DJ and designer for labels like Fat City and Grand Central (who soon invested interest in the crews instrumentals) and the next chapter is now committed to a fertile Discogs database history. A decade later Andy Votel (with his reluctant moniker) and his digging skills would begin to provide direct sample material for the likes of Madlib, Mos Def, JayZ, Nas, Dr Dre, Ghostface Killa and Action Bronson amongst others, and the “Violators…” black book of break-beats and catalog numbers soon began to feed a same-but-different rap beast.

Why you'll love it...
Latest release, Bulli, from Velvet Negroni (aka Jeremy Nutzman) was made during a particularly tumultuous time in Nutzman's life -- not the stuff we all went through in the last two years but also "drug abuse, bank fraud, and a house fire." He seems to have come through to the other side, though, as first single "Sinker" is an joyous piece of genre-bending pop.

Limited to 500 copies, the VMP exclusive edition of Velvet Negroni's Bulli is pressed on Transparent Red vinyl at Independent Record Pressing (IRP). The 1 LP will arrive in a single, direct-to-board, foil-stamped and numbered jacket. It was mastered by Carl Rowatti at Trutone.

Limited to 500 copies on orange vinyl.

After releasing his first beat & instrumental album “Alltimers” in 2020, Berlin based multi-talent V.Raeter is back and kicking off the champagne for his upcoming sophomore LP “Sunday on a Monday” – this time released via Kabul Fire Records, also known as the nourishing home of high class instrumental releases in proud HipHop fashion. Sunday on a Monday is a sample based instrumental gem that pays tribute to the laid-back atmosphere of late summer days.

After releasing his first beat & instrumental album “Alltimers” in 2020, Berlin based multi-talent V.Raeter is back and kicking off the champagne for his upcoming sophomore LP “Sunday on a Monday” – this time released via Kabul Fire Records, also known as the nourishing home of high class instrumental releases in proud HipHop fashion. Sunday on a Monday is a sample based instrumental gem that pays tribute to the laid-back atmosphere of late summer days.

2LP comp of those fire L.A. Producer 10"s that came out a decade ago. Includes a 36 page photo booklet from photographer, B+ . Dope. TIP! "Back in 2010 we released a series of 10" records from L.A., the series featured 22 artists across 11 records representing the various generations and approaches that made up the beat scene, both in LA and around the world. On every cover was a snapshot of the city viewed through the lens of L.A. based Irishman, Brian Cross AKA B+. To mark a decade we have compiled and remastered 24 tracks from the series on 2LP and cassette and bundled a 36 page B+ photo booklet inside and included liner notes from author of forthcoming book “Bedroom Beats & B-Sides” Laurent Fintoni."

Corner Bump

It's not officially Fall until Chillhop Music releases Essentials Fall.

Providing a fresh new soundtrack for the chilled months ahead, Essentials Fall is a 28 song 2xLP project. Featuring plenty of familiar names like Aso, Blue Wednesday, Ian Ewing, Philanthrope, SwuM, Chris Mazuera, Birocratic, Psalm Trees, Leavv, Nokiaa, as well as new trio Enough Cereals (check out their debut project with Chilhop, if you haven't already). This release confirms a new season is upon us, so spin this one well into winter, as well as the many autumns to come.

Whether you're taking a stroll through nature or reading by the fire. Whether you're enjoying some coffee or baking a pie. Whether you're meditating or picnicking or studying or stargazing. Whatever it is that highlights your life, we hope you enjoy Chillhop Music's newest compilation as a backdrop. One to blast as you put on your hoodie and cozy up for the season.

For those keeping count, this is our 35th (!!!) Essentials release. Maybe we'll do something special when we hit 40. We started this special compilation series back in 2016 with a release for every season of the year. Providing a fresh spin on the artwork every time, each calendar year presents a cohesive world-building storytelling mode and narrative arc. For 2024, our Raccoon returned to the countryside where they grew up and has spent the year catching up with family, reconnecting with old friends, taking plenty of naps, and reflecting on childhood. A time that was so long ago yet feels just like yesterday. As a result, Essentials Fall 2024 is nostalgic and steadily reminiscing on the past while also enjoying the present and all of the exciting things to come in the future.

It's not officially Fall until Chillhop Music releases Essentials Fall.

Providing a fresh new soundtrack for the chilled months ahead, Essentials Fall is a 28 song 2xLP project. Featuring plenty of familiar names like Aso, Blue Wednesday, Ian Ewing, Philanthrope, SwuM, Chris Mazuera, Birocratic, Psalm Trees, Leavv, Nokiaa, as well as new trio Enough Cereals (check out their debut project with Chilhop, if you haven't already). This release confirms a new season is upon us, so spin this one well into winter, as well as the many autumns to come.

Whether you're taking a stroll through nature or reading by the fire. Whether you're enjoying some coffee or baking a pie. Whether you're meditating or picnicking or studying or stargazing. Whatever it is that highlights your life, we hope you enjoy Chillhop Music's newest compilation as a backdrop. One to blast as you put on your hoodie and cozy up for the season.

For those keeping count, this is our 35th (!!!) Essentials release. Maybe we'll do something special when we hit 40. We started this special compilation series back in 2016 with a release for every season of the year. Providing a fresh spin on the artwork every time, each calendar year presents a cohesive world-building storytelling mode and narrative arc. For 2024, our Raccoon returned to the countryside where they grew up and has spent the year catching up with family, reconnecting with old friends, taking plenty of naps, and reflecting on childhood. A time that was so long ago yet feels just like yesterday. As a result, Essentials Fall 2024 is nostalgic and steadily reminiscing on the past while also enjoying the present and all of the exciting things to come in the future.

Chill out this holiday season with 16 lo-fi Christmas tunes, perfect for your wintertime vibes. This compilation is a wonderful soundtrack to putting on your Christmas sweaters, lounging by the fire, and relaxing to A Chill Lo-Fi Christmas!

New instrumental release on Farhot’s Kabul Fire label with contributions from a who’s who of the German producer scene including internationally known names such as DJ Desue, Suff Daddy, Brenk Sinatra, Dexter (Betty Ford Boys), Bluestaeb and others! Make beats not borders! Germany’s producer elite comes correct on this new instrumentals-only release from Kabul Fire Records.

Label honcho Farhot has assembled an all-star cast of heat providers to not only celebrate beat culture but also take a powerful stand against global exploitation and national isolationism. Expect exclusive contributions from literally everybody who’s somebody on the German hip-hop circuit, many of them proudly repping their migrant backgrounds – Bazzazian, The Krauts, Dexter, KitschKrieg, Brenk Sinatra, Ghanaian Stallion, Suff Daddy, Samy Deluxe, DJ Desue, and many more. All proceeds go to Visions for Children’s current school project in Afghanistan.

“Super Tight…” is the second album from Hip Hop legends UGK, originally released in 1994. The title of the album is taken from its stand out single “Front, Back & Side to Side”. Bun B and Pimp C (R.I.P.) were already on fire from their debut album a few years prior but they perfected the Southern Playa sound with this record. At the time of its release “Super Tight…” was only issued on Cassette and CD so it’s a must for fans and collectors to grab the vinyl now that it’s available for the very first time. The album kicks off with “Return”, which after a few snare hits and the bluster of Pimp C’s voice it is clear to the world - the underground kings are back. Countless tracks like “Three Sixteens” (featuring DJ DMD), “Stoned Junkee”, “It’s Supposed to Bubble”, “I Left It Wet for You” and the previously mentioned “Front, Back, & Side To Side” all perfectly showcase the chemistry between Bun B & Pimp C over deep southern funk grooves. The production on this album is stellar, all bass heavy and features Meters lead guitarist Leo Nocentelli. Like their debut album Too Hard to Swallow Bun B and Pimp C were ahead of the game, and with “Super Tight…” they perfected it. Finally, this great release is available for the first time on clear vinyl.

“Soul is My Salvation is a collection of dance friendly gospel songs. The mission is to simply uplift your spirit through music and word. Dance floor’s around the world mirror the reactions of Churches from the 70’s and 80’s when experiencing these recordings.” - Tone B. Nimble. Released as a series of eight limited vinyl-only 45, when assembled together the covers reveal a beautiful design courtesy of designer Charlotte McCrae. A true collectors item. Chapter 7 sees two prized cuts bursting with that unbridled gospel energy, Spiritual Souls 1982 number - ‘We Came To Show You The Way’ and Heaven’s Sound’s 1984 gem – ‘Fire’.

Hip-hop loves to draw from its influences. Australian hip-hop artist Tkay Maidza draws from her African background in her debut record Tkay.

The Zimbabwean born Maidza has a lot of appeal in her debut. It's not dull hip-hop we've become used to. Instead, colorful instrumentals and melodies accompany her young and refreshing voice. The album begins with the high energy, intense 'Always Been,' a big of a misleading track to open the record yet does hype it up. It's dark and dramatic, the beat strong and the delivery packed with grime influence. The bars are pretty quick fire, but there's a recognizable reference to Kanye West's 'Black Skinhead' in there that'll pique you're ear in case you can't pick up on anything else.

There are several other songs that go hard. 'Carry On,' with Run The Jewels' Killer Mike on the track, throwing down above the synthy bass between the upbeat but still urgent chorus. A darker presence envelops 'State Of Mind,' bouncy synths radiating ominous vibes on top of Maidza's gun of a mouth paired paranoid harmonies.

The majority of the record finds itself being poppier. The instrumental of 'Simulation' channels Sia almost blatantly, yet the vocals' light melodies soar high above the 'Cheap Thrills' reminiscent synth. There are thicker, dancier songs like 'Monochrome' that robotically have some groove to them. The muddy instrumental helps elevate the poppier lyrics. 'Drumsticks No Guns' is a fun-loving track, infectiously cute synths bouncing happily throughout the track. 'Castle In The Sky' is the pinnacle of the album's pop tracks, the sweet melodies pairing with the strongest and punchiest instrumental on the record, dynamic brass synths pairing with various acoustic instrumentation and electronics.

Sometimes it goes a little too far. With the pop influence, there are a few annoying tracks, like 'Tennies.' The song starts okay, but there has to be a limit as to how many times you can sing "tennies" before it gets old. The beat features some cool instrumentation, some bongos sounding with a punchy string instrumental, but even those can't save the song from its muddy tendencies. The big vibes of 'Supasonic' are interrupted by pretty annoying lyrics.

Tkay has all of the the uncertainties of a debut record, but it definitely holds its ground. It's an indicator of a new threat on the block with Tkay Maidza - she's bound to be something big in the hip-hop and pop world. It's a refreshing new sound and certainly one that won't be getting old anytime soon. - immortalreviews.com

he next chapter in the “Seven Deadly Sins” saga brings you something very very special. Believe it or not, we managed to find another unheard/unreleased THE Sworn Lord tune from the vaults of Davy G. Originally recorded in 1990 after “the vengeance is mine” 12inch was released, which is impossible to find or huge expensive, super rare UK Holy Grail. to make “the vengeance is mine” available again, we tried our best to find the OG masters, but couldn’t find them, so we made a vinyl rip off and Gavin Weiss remastered this Beasttune the best way possible. The result is a bit different to the OG version from the 12inch, super dirty, super raw with deep bass. What this release makes so special is the flipside, “The B-Side wins again”: MC Phaser aka. The Sworn Lord -who sadly passed away a few years ago (R.I.P.)- spits pure fire over a 666% Britcore Style pure fire 131 bpm beat produced by Davy G feat. furious epic scratch pattern by DJ Soundmaster. Completly unknown, unheard UK hardcore hiphop from the early 90ies. People into classic Blade, Silver Bullet, Gunshot, Hijack etc etc. gonna love it. We listened to it 24/7 for over 6 months, its a heavy heavy tune which leaves you addicted, you cant stop listening to this, believe us and check the snippet. to underline again: This is NOT made for the club. this pure 1990 Golden Era UK HipHop Hardcore Fire, a document uk UK HipHop History, super dope Random Rap, a raw diamond perfect for the label and the “Seven Deadly Sins Series” on Britcore Rawmance. Nothing FOR Audiophile Hipsters. Regular copies in the usual artwork of the “7 deadly sins” series plus a n orptunity to change to a picture cover. includes a superdope Sketch by Hamburgs finest Skat inside the fold out sleeve.

Originally released in 1999, The Root's fourth studio album reissue will be a limited edition 2LP featuring 4 alternate cover variations. The album, named after the W.B. Yeats poem ‘The Second Coming,’ was art directed by the legendary Kenny Gravillis, who chose five different designs for the cover; each one is a striking image that represents moments in history when humanity was at a breaking point. Things Fall Apart is widely considered The Legendary Roots Crew most ambitious masterpiece. The album features urban legends Erykah Badu, Common, Mos Def, and more.

Things Fall Apart is the fourth studio album by The Roots, released on February 23, 1999. Widely regarded as one of the group’s masterpieces, the album helped solidify The Roots' position as one of the most important and innovative acts in hip-hop. Its title is a reference to the classic 1958 novel "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe, which explores themes of societal disruption and cultural conflict.

The album was released at a pivotal moment in hip-hop, during the late '90s “conscious rap” movement, and addresses a wide range of social, political, and personal issues, including racism, violence, love, and the commercialization of hip-hop.
The overall tone of the album is dark and introspective, with a sense of urgency as it reflects on the state of both hip-hop culture and society at large.
The title and themes suggest a world on the verge of collapse, with lyrics that critique the impact of consumerism, poverty, and systemic oppression, but also explore more intimate personal struggles.

Things Fall Apart is a sonic blend of hip-hop, jazz, neo-soul, and funk, featuring live instrumentation, complex rhythms, and eclectic samples, which set it apart from the more sample-heavy production styles of its time.
Questlove's drumming provides the backbone of the album’s live instrumentation, with a laid-back, jazzy feel, while Black Thought's rap style delivers hard-hitting, reflective, and often politically charged lyrics.
The album also features collaborations with notable artists from the Soulquarians collective, including Erykah Badu, Common, D’Angelo, Mos Def (Yasiin Bey), and Jill Scott (though Scott was replaced by Erykah Badu on the album's hit single "You Got Me").

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Act Too (The Love of My Life)" (featuring Common) – A soulful, reflective track about hip-hop itself, discussing the culture’s origins and the artists' deep connection to it.
"The Next Movement" – One of the album’s lead singles, it features a funky, upbeat sound and showcases Black Thought’s lyrical agility, with commentary on the evolving music industry and staying true to one’s artistic vision.
"You Got Me" (featuring Erykah Badu and Eve) – This is one of The Roots’ most popular songs, blending hip-hop, neo-soul, and R&B. The song tells the story of a long-distance relationship and features soulful vocals by Badu, with Eve providing a brief rap verse.
This track earned The Roots their first Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2000.
"Dynamite!" – A raw, high-energy track with Black Thought delivering rapid-fire verses over an aggressive beat.
"Adrenaline!" (featuring Beanie Sigel) – A harder, more street-oriented track, with intense lyrical deliveries from Black Thought, Malik B, and a guest verse by Beanie Sigel.
"100% Dundee" – Known for its relentless, battle-ready verses and intricate wordplay from Black Thought and Malik B.
"Double Trouble" (featuring Mos Def) – This track has Black Thought and Mos Def trading verses, showcasing lyrical dexterity in a playful, competitive way.

The album is produced mainly by Questlove and The Roots, with additional contributions from D’Angelo, James Poyser, and other members of the Soulquarians, a collective of artists who blended hip-hop, R&B, and neo-soul in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The album’s sound is distinguished by its organic production, combining live instrumentation with layered samples and intricate drum patterns, creating a more textured and atmospheric backdrop for the group’s lyrical content.

The central themes of Things Fall Apart include the disillusionment with mainstream hip-hop, reflecting on the genre's shift toward materialism and commercialism, and broader issues like social injustice, racial tension, and urban decay.
Black Thought and Malik B delve into personal struggles with identity, success, and the pressures of staying true to one’s roots in an increasingly superficial world.
The record also meditates on the role of artists in times of social upheaval, with many tracks expressing a sense of frustration and uncertainty, yet also resolve and hope for change.

Things Fall Apart was a critical and commercial success, marking The Roots' breakthrough into mainstream consciousness while retaining their underground credibility.
It received widespread critical acclaim for its lyrical depth, innovative production, and willingness to tackle tough, socially conscious topics at a time when much of mainstream hip-hop was focused on more materialistic themes.
The album is frequently cited as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, and it helped to cement The Roots' status as pioneers of the alternative rap movement, alongside artists like Common, Mos Def, and Talib Kweli.
It was nominated for multiple awards and is now considered a landmark in hip-hop and neo-soul, influencing both genres in the years to come.

Things Fall Apart became The Roots' first platinum-selling album, and the success of singles like "You Got Me" introduced the band to a broader audience.
It paved the way for their future albums, including Phrenology (2002) and The Tipping Point (2004), where they continued to experiment with their sound and push boundaries in both musicality and lyricism.
This album is considered a cultural milestone not just for The Roots, but for hip-hop as a whole, reflecting both the possibilities of the genre and the depth of artistry that The Roots have consistently brought to their work.

Originally released in 1999, The Root's fourth studio album reissue will be a limited edition 2LP featuring 4 alternate cover variations. The album, named after the W.B. Yeats poem ‘The Second Coming,’ was art directed by the legendary Kenny Gravillis, who chose five different designs for the cover; each one is a striking image that represents moments in history when humanity was at a breaking point. Things Fall Apart is widely considered The Legendary Roots Crew most ambitious masterpiece. The album features urban legends Erykah Badu, Common, Mos Def, and more.

Things Fall Apart is the fourth studio album by The Roots, released on February 23, 1999. Widely regarded as one of the group’s masterpieces, the album helped solidify The Roots' position as one of the most important and innovative acts in hip-hop. Its title is a reference to the classic 1958 novel "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe, which explores themes of societal disruption and cultural conflict.

The album was released at a pivotal moment in hip-hop, during the late '90s “conscious rap” movement, and addresses a wide range of social, political, and personal issues, including racism, violence, love, and the commercialization of hip-hop.
The overall tone of the album is dark and introspective, with a sense of urgency as it reflects on the state of both hip-hop culture and society at large.
The title and themes suggest a world on the verge of collapse, with lyrics that critique the impact of consumerism, poverty, and systemic oppression, but also explore more intimate personal struggles.

Things Fall Apart is a sonic blend of hip-hop, jazz, neo-soul, and funk, featuring live instrumentation, complex rhythms, and eclectic samples, which set it apart from the more sample-heavy production styles of its time.
Questlove's drumming provides the backbone of the album’s live instrumentation, with a laid-back, jazzy feel, while Black Thought's rap style delivers hard-hitting, reflective, and often politically charged lyrics.
The album also features collaborations with notable artists from the Soulquarians collective, including Erykah Badu, Common, D’Angelo, Mos Def (Yasiin Bey), and Jill Scott (though Scott was replaced by Erykah Badu on the album's hit single "You Got Me").

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Act Too (The Love of My Life)" (featuring Common) – A soulful, reflective track about hip-hop itself, discussing the culture’s origins and the artists' deep connection to it.
"The Next Movement" – One of the album’s lead singles, it features a funky, upbeat sound and showcases Black Thought’s lyrical agility, with commentary on the evolving music industry and staying true to one’s artistic vision.
"You Got Me" (featuring Erykah Badu and Eve) – This is one of The Roots’ most popular songs, blending hip-hop, neo-soul, and R&B. The song tells the story of a long-distance relationship and features soulful vocals by Badu, with Eve providing a brief rap verse.
This track earned The Roots their first Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2000.
"Dynamite!" – A raw, high-energy track with Black Thought delivering rapid-fire verses over an aggressive beat.
"Adrenaline!" (featuring Beanie Sigel) – A harder, more street-oriented track, with intense lyrical deliveries from Black Thought, Malik B, and a guest verse by Beanie Sigel.
"100% Dundee" – Known for its relentless, battle-ready verses and intricate wordplay from Black Thought and Malik B.
"Double Trouble" (featuring Mos Def) – This track has Black Thought and Mos Def trading verses, showcasing lyrical dexterity in a playful, competitive way.

The album is produced mainly by Questlove and The Roots, with additional contributions from D’Angelo, James Poyser, and other members of the Soulquarians, a collective of artists who blended hip-hop, R&B, and neo-soul in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The album’s sound is distinguished by its organic production, combining live instrumentation with layered samples and intricate drum patterns, creating a more textured and atmospheric backdrop for the group’s lyrical content.

The central themes of Things Fall Apart include the disillusionment with mainstream hip-hop, reflecting on the genre's shift toward materialism and commercialism, and broader issues like social injustice, racial tension, and urban decay.
Black Thought and Malik B delve into personal struggles with identity, success, and the pressures of staying true to one’s roots in an increasingly superficial world.
The record also meditates on the role of artists in times of social upheaval, with many tracks expressing a sense of frustration and uncertainty, yet also resolve and hope for change.

Things Fall Apart was a critical and commercial success, marking The Roots' breakthrough into mainstream consciousness while retaining their underground credibility.
It received widespread critical acclaim for its lyrical depth, innovative production, and willingness to tackle tough, socially conscious topics at a time when much of mainstream hip-hop was focused on more materialistic themes.
The album is frequently cited as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, and it helped to cement The Roots' status as pioneers of the alternative rap movement, alongside artists like Common, Mos Def, and Talib Kweli.
It was nominated for multiple awards and is now considered a landmark in hip-hop and neo-soul, influencing both genres in the years to come.

Things Fall Apart became The Roots' first platinum-selling album, and the success of singles like "You Got Me" introduced the band to a broader audience.
It paved the way for their future albums, including Phrenology (2002) and The Tipping Point (2004), where they continued to experiment with their sound and push boundaries in both musicality and lyricism.
This album is considered a cultural milestone not just for The Roots, but for hip-hop as a whole, reflecting both the possibilities of the genre and the depth of artistry that The Roots have consistently brought to their work.

Originally released in 1999, The Root's fourth studio album reissue will be a limited edition 2LP featuring 4 alternate cover variations. The album, named after the W.B. Yeats poem ‘The Second Coming,’ was art directed by the legendary Kenny Gravillis, who chose five different designs for the cover; each one is a striking image that represents moments in history when humanity was at a breaking point. Things Fall Apart is widely considered The Legendary Roots Crew most ambitious masterpiece. The album features urban legends Erykah Badu, Common, Mos Def, and more.

Things Fall Apart is the fourth studio album by The Roots, released on February 23, 1999. Widely regarded as one of the group’s masterpieces, the album helped solidify The Roots' position as one of the most important and innovative acts in hip-hop. Its title is a reference to the classic 1958 novel "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe, which explores themes of societal disruption and cultural conflict.

The album was released at a pivotal moment in hip-hop, during the late '90s “conscious rap” movement, and addresses a wide range of social, political, and personal issues, including racism, violence, love, and the commercialization of hip-hop.
The overall tone of the album is dark and introspective, with a sense of urgency as it reflects on the state of both hip-hop culture and society at large.
The title and themes suggest a world on the verge of collapse, with lyrics that critique the impact of consumerism, poverty, and systemic oppression, but also explore more intimate personal struggles.

Things Fall Apart is a sonic blend of hip-hop, jazz, neo-soul, and funk, featuring live instrumentation, complex rhythms, and eclectic samples, which set it apart from the more sample-heavy production styles of its time.
Questlove's drumming provides the backbone of the album’s live instrumentation, with a laid-back, jazzy feel, while Black Thought's rap style delivers hard-hitting, reflective, and often politically charged lyrics.
The album also features collaborations with notable artists from the Soulquarians collective, including Erykah Badu, Common, D’Angelo, Mos Def (Yasiin Bey), and Jill Scott (though Scott was replaced by Erykah Badu on the album's hit single "You Got Me").

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Act Too (The Love of My Life)" (featuring Common) – A soulful, reflective track about hip-hop itself, discussing the culture’s origins and the artists' deep connection to it.
"The Next Movement" – One of the album’s lead singles, it features a funky, upbeat sound and showcases Black Thought’s lyrical agility, with commentary on the evolving music industry and staying true to one’s artistic vision.
"You Got Me" (featuring Erykah Badu and Eve) – This is one of The Roots’ most popular songs, blending hip-hop, neo-soul, and R&B. The song tells the story of a long-distance relationship and features soulful vocals by Badu, with Eve providing a brief rap verse.
This track earned The Roots their first Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2000.
"Dynamite!" – A raw, high-energy track with Black Thought delivering rapid-fire verses over an aggressive beat.
"Adrenaline!" (featuring Beanie Sigel) – A harder, more street-oriented track, with intense lyrical deliveries from Black Thought, Malik B, and a guest verse by Beanie Sigel.
"100% Dundee" – Known for its relentless, battle-ready verses and intricate wordplay from Black Thought and Malik B.
"Double Trouble" (featuring Mos Def) – This track has Black Thought and Mos Def trading verses, showcasing lyrical dexterity in a playful, competitive way.

The album is produced mainly by Questlove and The Roots, with additional contributions from D’Angelo, James Poyser, and other members of the Soulquarians, a collective of artists who blended hip-hop, R&B, and neo-soul in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The album’s sound is distinguished by its organic production, combining live instrumentation with layered samples and intricate drum patterns, creating a more textured and atmospheric backdrop for the group’s lyrical content.

The central themes of Things Fall Apart include the disillusionment with mainstream hip-hop, reflecting on the genre's shift toward materialism and commercialism, and broader issues like social injustice, racial tension, and urban decay.
Black Thought and Malik B delve into personal struggles with identity, success, and the pressures of staying true to one’s roots in an increasingly superficial world.
The record also meditates on the role of artists in times of social upheaval, with many tracks expressing a sense of frustration and uncertainty, yet also resolve and hope for change.

Things Fall Apart was a critical and commercial success, marking The Roots' breakthrough into mainstream consciousness while retaining their underground credibility.
It received widespread critical acclaim for its lyrical depth, innovative production, and willingness to tackle tough, socially conscious topics at a time when much of mainstream hip-hop was focused on more materialistic themes.
The album is frequently cited as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, and it helped to cement The Roots' status as pioneers of the alternative rap movement, alongside artists like Common, Mos Def, and Talib Kweli.
It was nominated for multiple awards and is now considered a landmark in hip-hop and neo-soul, influencing both genres in the years to come.

Things Fall Apart became The Roots' first platinum-selling album, and the success of singles like "You Got Me" introduced the band to a broader audience.
It paved the way for their future albums, including Phrenology (2002) and The Tipping Point (2004), where they continued to experiment with their sound and push boundaries in both musicality and lyricism.
This album is considered a cultural milestone not just for The Roots, but for hip-hop as a whole, reflecting both the possibilities of the genre and the depth of artistry that The Roots have consistently brought to their work.

Originally released in 1999, The Root's fourth studio album reissue will be a limited edition 2LP featuring 4 alternate cover variations. The album, named after the W.B. Yeats poem ‘The Second Coming,’ was art directed by the legendary Kenny Gravillis, who chose five different designs for the cover; each one is a striking image that represents moments in history when humanity was at a breaking point. Things Fall Apart is widely considered The Legendary Roots Crew most ambitious masterpiece. The album features urban legends Erykah Badu, Common, Mos Def, and more.

Things Fall Apart is the fourth studio album by The Roots, released on February 23, 1999. Widely regarded as one of the group’s masterpieces, the album helped solidify The Roots' position as one of the most important and innovative acts in hip-hop. Its title is a reference to the classic 1958 novel "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe, which explores themes of societal disruption and cultural conflict.

The album was released at a pivotal moment in hip-hop, during the late '90s “conscious rap” movement, and addresses a wide range of social, political, and personal issues, including racism, violence, love, and the commercialization of hip-hop.
The overall tone of the album is dark and introspective, with a sense of urgency as it reflects on the state of both hip-hop culture and society at large.
The title and themes suggest a world on the verge of collapse, with lyrics that critique the impact of consumerism, poverty, and systemic oppression, but also explore more intimate personal struggles.

Things Fall Apart is a sonic blend of hip-hop, jazz, neo-soul, and funk, featuring live instrumentation, complex rhythms, and eclectic samples, which set it apart from the more sample-heavy production styles of its time.
Questlove's drumming provides the backbone of the album’s live instrumentation, with a laid-back, jazzy feel, while Black Thought's rap style delivers hard-hitting, reflective, and often politically charged lyrics.
The album also features collaborations with notable artists from the Soulquarians collective, including Erykah Badu, Common, D’Angelo, Mos Def (Yasiin Bey), and Jill Scott (though Scott was replaced by Erykah Badu on the album's hit single "You Got Me").

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Act Too (The Love of My Life)" (featuring Common) – A soulful, reflective track about hip-hop itself, discussing the culture’s origins and the artists' deep connection to it.
"The Next Movement" – One of the album’s lead singles, it features a funky, upbeat sound and showcases Black Thought’s lyrical agility, with commentary on the evolving music industry and staying true to one’s artistic vision.
"You Got Me" (featuring Erykah Badu and Eve) – This is one of The Roots’ most popular songs, blending hip-hop, neo-soul, and R&B. The song tells the story of a long-distance relationship and features soulful vocals by Badu, with Eve providing a brief rap verse.
This track earned The Roots their first Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2000.
"Dynamite!" – A raw, high-energy track with Black Thought delivering rapid-fire verses over an aggressive beat.
"Adrenaline!" (featuring Beanie Sigel) – A harder, more street-oriented track, with intense lyrical deliveries from Black Thought, Malik B, and a guest verse by Beanie Sigel.
"100% Dundee" – Known for its relentless, battle-ready verses and intricate wordplay from Black Thought and Malik B.
"Double Trouble" (featuring Mos Def) – This track has Black Thought and Mos Def trading verses, showcasing lyrical dexterity in a playful, competitive way.

The album is produced mainly by Questlove and The Roots, with additional contributions from D’Angelo, James Poyser, and other members of the Soulquarians, a collective of artists who blended hip-hop, R&B, and neo-soul in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The album’s sound is distinguished by its organic production, combining live instrumentation with layered samples and intricate drum patterns, creating a more textured and atmospheric backdrop for the group’s lyrical content.

The central themes of Things Fall Apart include the disillusionment with mainstream hip-hop, reflecting on the genre's shift toward materialism and commercialism, and broader issues like social injustice, racial tension, and urban decay.
Black Thought and Malik B delve into personal struggles with identity, success, and the pressures of staying true to one’s roots in an increasingly superficial world.
The record also meditates on the role of artists in times of social upheaval, with many tracks expressing a sense of frustration and uncertainty, yet also resolve and hope for change.

Things Fall Apart was a critical and commercial success, marking The Roots' breakthrough into mainstream consciousness while retaining their underground credibility.
It received widespread critical acclaim for its lyrical depth, innovative production, and willingness to tackle tough, socially conscious topics at a time when much of mainstream hip-hop was focused on more materialistic themes.
The album is frequently cited as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, and it helped to cement The Roots' status as pioneers of the alternative rap movement, alongside artists like Common, Mos Def, and Talib Kweli.
It was nominated for multiple awards and is now considered a landmark in hip-hop and neo-soul, influencing both genres in the years to come.

Things Fall Apart became The Roots' first platinum-selling album, and the success of singles like "You Got Me" introduced the band to a broader audience.
It paved the way for their future albums, including Phrenology (2002) and The Tipping Point (2004), where they continued to experiment with their sound and push boundaries in both musicality and lyricism.
This album is considered a cultural milestone not just for The Roots, but for hip-hop as a whole, reflecting both the possibilities of the genre and the depth of artistry that The Roots have consistently brought to their work.

Things Fall Apart is the fourth studio album by The Roots, released on February 23, 1999. Widely regarded as one of the group’s masterpieces, the album helped solidify The Roots' position as one of the most important and innovative acts in hip-hop. Its title is a reference to the classic 1958 novel "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe, which explores themes of societal disruption and cultural conflict.

The album was released at a pivotal moment in hip-hop, during the late '90s “conscious rap” movement, and addresses a wide range of social, political, and personal issues, including racism, violence, love, and the commercialization of hip-hop.
The overall tone of the album is dark and introspective, with a sense of urgency as it reflects on the state of both hip-hop culture and society at large.
The title and themes suggest a world on the verge of collapse, with lyrics that critique the impact of consumerism, poverty, and systemic oppression, but also explore more intimate personal struggles.

Things Fall Apart is a sonic blend of hip-hop, jazz, neo-soul, and funk, featuring live instrumentation, complex rhythms, and eclectic samples, which set it apart from the more sample-heavy production styles of its time.
Questlove's drumming provides the backbone of the album’s live instrumentation, with a laid-back, jazzy feel, while Black Thought's rap style delivers hard-hitting, reflective, and often politically charged lyrics.
The album also features collaborations with notable artists from the Soulquarians collective, including Erykah Badu, Common, D’Angelo, Mos Def (Yasiin Bey), and Jill Scott (though Scott was replaced by Erykah Badu on the album's hit single "You Got Me").

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Act Too (The Love of My Life)" (featuring Common) – A soulful, reflective track about hip-hop itself, discussing the culture’s origins and the artists' deep connection to it.
"The Next Movement" – One of the album’s lead singles, it features a funky, upbeat sound and showcases Black Thought’s lyrical agility, with commentary on the evolving music industry and staying true to one’s artistic vision.
"You Got Me" (featuring Erykah Badu and Eve) – This is one of The Roots’ most popular songs, blending hip-hop, neo-soul, and R&B. The song tells the story of a long-distance relationship and features soulful vocals by Badu, with Eve providing a brief rap verse.
This track earned The Roots their first Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2000.
"Dynamite!" – A raw, high-energy track with Black Thought delivering rapid-fire verses over an aggressive beat.
"Adrenaline!" (featuring Beanie Sigel) – A harder, more street-oriented track, with intense lyrical deliveries from Black Thought, Malik B, and a guest verse by Beanie Sigel.
"100% Dundee" – Known for its relentless, battle-ready verses and intricate wordplay from Black Thought and Malik B.
"Double Trouble" (featuring Mos Def) – This track has Black Thought and Mos Def trading verses, showcasing lyrical dexterity in a playful, competitive way.

The album is produced mainly by Questlove and The Roots, with additional contributions from D’Angelo, James Poyser, and other members of the Soulquarians, a collective of artists who blended hip-hop, R&B, and neo-soul in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The album’s sound is distinguished by its organic production, combining live instrumentation with layered samples and intricate drum patterns, creating a more textured and atmospheric backdrop for the group’s lyrical content.

The central themes of Things Fall Apart include the disillusionment with mainstream hip-hop, reflecting on the genre's shift toward materialism and commercialism, and broader issues like social injustice, racial tension, and urban decay.
Black Thought and Malik B delve into personal struggles with identity, success, and the pressures of staying true to one’s roots in an increasingly superficial world.
The record also meditates on the role of artists in times of social upheaval, with many tracks expressing a sense of frustration and uncertainty, yet also resolve and hope for change.

Things Fall Apart was a critical and commercial success, marking The Roots' breakthrough into mainstream consciousness while retaining their underground credibility.
It received widespread critical acclaim for its lyrical depth, innovative production, and willingness to tackle tough, socially conscious topics at a time when much of mainstream hip-hop was focused on more materialistic themes.
The album is frequently cited as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, and it helped to cement The Roots' status as pioneers of the alternative rap movement, alongside artists like Common, Mos Def, and Talib Kweli.
It was nominated for multiple awards and is now considered a landmark in hip-hop and neo-soul, influencing both genres in the years to come.

Things Fall Apart became The Roots' first platinum-selling album, and the success of singles like "You Got Me" introduced the band to a broader audience.
It paved the way for their future albums, including Phrenology (2002) and The Tipping Point (2004), where they continued to experiment with their sound and push boundaries in both musicality and lyricism.
This album is considered a cultural milestone not just for The Roots, but for hip-hop as a whole, reflecting both the possibilities of the genre and the depth of artistry that The Roots have consistently brought to their work.

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.

The I.M.F. and LMT.Break present Grime Status on wax! This album shows both artists talent, I.M.F.'s lyrical skills and LMT.Break's in depth beats to bring you an album that defines all elements of Hip Hop. It is a timeless ode to the golden era, with respect to the DJ the arts the MC and beatbreaks for b-girls and b-boys to rock to. A collection of talented local hiphop DJ's participated on this project and special guest MCs from SF to NY. A sure fire album which you can't miss adding it to your collection!

The Four Owls highly acclaimed classic album 'Nature's Greatest Mystery' produced by Leaf Dog. The album features such classic as 'Life In The Balance, Not Like Before & Much To Much and features Dirty Dike, Jam Baxter & Q-Unique. This album made waves the world over and is a must have for any collector or Hip Hop fan!

Limited edition repress on orange splatter vinyl, full colour 350gsm reverse board sleeve. 14 track LP over 2 discs. Shrink wrapped.

Run of 500 vinyl.

Limited edition of 500 copies on vinyl. After "Alpine Metropolis" (2014), "Swiss Banks" (2015) and "The Jacob Theology" (2015), SWC-Records (Lausanne, CH) is proud to introduce its 4th project in collaboration with Six2six Records (Baltimore, USA). This is a selection of 8 exclusive tracks recorded @Ghetto Stud (SWC-Records studio) between 2013 and 2014. Theses tracks combine most of MC's and beatmakers of the two labels (MI of Constant Deviants, FlaFla of Sparrow the Movement, Supreme, Rome / Steve Colossal, Dj Eagle, Starshit, Switchflow, Dreem / Mr Mat / Big C of EXP, Mono SickHop, L'Expert & Bab2 of L'Affaire). The „Convergence“ is in the lyrics, productions and fire on stage. Explosive rap, authentic and melodious. Sober and sincere.

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

Set to be released in 1995, Supernatural's debut "Natural Disasters" got shelved and never saw an official release until now. 21 tracks of pure Golden Era heat by one of the most respected freestyle MC's in Hip Hop, entirely produced by Djinji Brown.

"This album was created between January - April of 1995 in Brooklyn, NYC. It was a special moment in time captured musically by two friends who had a vision. A vision that really couldn’t be labeled, but could only be put into sounds. In my mind this album could only have been created in Brooklyn at this exact juncture in time. In general NYC was on fire artistically. There was so much creativity in the air, the ground, everywhere, the streets were talking indeed. All you had to do was listen and the message was clear “Create from Creativity”! Everyone had something to say, and Supernatural had a unique way of doing it. The forces of nature work in mysterious ways and when certain elements align the result is something very unique. We truly hope you enjoy “Natural Disasters”, which is more of a journey into the minds and imaginations of two creative spirits than it is a rap album. But in the same breath it could not have been born if not for Hip Hop." - Djinji Brown

Available in a limited run on 2LP+7", CD in jewel case, cassette and digitally on all major platforms.

Limited edition of 100 copies on cassette.

Set to be released in 1995, Supernatural's debut "Natural Disasters" got shelved and never saw an official release until now. 21 tracks of pure Golden Era heat by one of the most respected freestyle MC's in Hip Hop, entirely produced by Djinji Brown.

"This album was created between January - April of 1995 in Brooklyn, NYC. It was a special moment in time captured musically by two friends who had a vision. A vision that really couldn’t be labeled, but could only be put into sounds. In my mind this album could only have been created in Brooklyn at this exact juncture in time. In general NYC was on fire artistically. There was so much creativity in the air, the ground, everywhere, the streets were talking indeed. All you had to do was listen and the message was clear “Create from Creativity”! Everyone had something to say, and Supernatural had a unique way of doing it. The forces of nature work in mysterious ways and when certain elements align the result is something very unique. We truly hope you enjoy “Natural Disasters”, which is more of a journey into the minds and imaginations of two creative spirits than it is a rap album. But in the same breath it could not have been born if not for Hip Hop." - Djinji Brown

Available in a limited run on 2LP+7", CD in jewel case, cassette and digitally on all major platforms.

Limited edition of 500 copies on 2LP incl. bonus 7" ("Buddah Blessed It" b/w "Instrumental").

Set to be released in 1995, Supernatural's debut "Natural Disasters" got shelved and never saw an official release until now. 21 tracks of pure Golden Era heat by one of the most respected freestyle MC's in Hip Hop, entirely produced by Djinji Brown.

"This album was created between January - April of 1995 in Brooklyn, NYC. It was a special moment in time captured musically by two friends who had a vision. A vision that really couldn’t be labeled, but could only be put into sounds. In my mind this album could only have been created in Brooklyn at this exact juncture in time. In general NYC was on fire artistically. There was so much creativity in the air, the ground, everywhere, the streets were talking indeed. All you had to do was listen and the message was clear “Create from Creativity”! Everyone had something to say, and Supernatural had a unique way of doing it. The forces of nature work in mysterious ways and when certain elements align the result is something very unique. We truly hope you enjoy “Natural Disasters”, which is more of a journey into the minds and imaginations of two creative spirits than it is a rap album. But in the same breath it could not have been born if not for Hip Hop." - Djinji Brown

Available in a limited run on 2LP+7", CD in jewel case, cassette and digitally on all major platforms.

Loud & Clear / N.O.R.E (Buttas Remix) b/w Cherry Blossoms (Love Notes Mix) by Strictlybutters | Galaxy Sound Co. – GSC 45-038 | Summer time vibes are here & @galaxy_sound_company is back at it with another sure-shot #hiphop donut via @strictlybutters. I got my hands on an advance copy of a limited-run test pressing & it is cut loud! Ya know ya will be boomin’ in ya, boomin’ in ya, boomin’ this in ya jeep!

Galaxy Sound Co. started taking these occasional fire #hiphopinstrumental interlude breaks from their 45 edit series to shine light on the Michigan skateboarder, cyclist, sneaker-head & bedroom b-boy beat maker Strictlybutters. With the 38th donut in the GSC 45 series, he is making his 3rd appearance on the label & it is another banger.

Side A1’s “Loud & Clear” is a straight-up, warm-up boom-bap banger. It effortlessly, teases along by MC royalty with a sweet soulful piano riff rolling along MPC delights. A joyful crowd is weaved through a familiar GWJ break calling you do get up & get down. A2’s “N.O.R.E. (Buttas Remix)” teases with a buttery-soul laced rework of with a snippet from Noreaga’s “SuperThug”. The only fault here being SB only gives us a taste at just over a minute long. More please.

Side B’s “Cherry Blossoms (Love Notes Mix)” is a killer joint in the vein of 90s hip-hop love jams, with the core sample being one of my fav sweet soul songs from Detroit, 1969’s “Maybe So Maybe No” by the New Holidays (Soulhawk Records 1008). SB lets this beat breathe to perfection, rolling fa-la-la-la’s that slide into a sexy outro.

"While most fans know that Che Noir, Ransom, and Klass Murda all fall under
the TCF Music Group umbrella, many were unaware of Street Justice’s
long-standing affiliation with the label until he appeared on two cuts on
38 Spesh x Big Ghost Ltd’s album A Bullet For Every Heathen. His standout
contributions to that lauded project made a strong impression on listeners,
which led to high anticipation for his solo debut, Community Service. So, with
Spesh providing guaranteed fire on the production side of things, Street was
free to focus on giving heads the kind of introspective, gritty poetry the game
needs right now. Guests spots from Eto, Planet Asia, Che, and Spesh himself
all help insure Street’s initial offering is a must-hear."

United by hustle and an unmatchable enthusiasm for alternative hip hop, Spoken Nerd and Juan Cosby have teamed to make the synth-pop/hip-hop-fused LP, Grapes. Grapes was actually first concocted as word of a rumored reboot of "Tales From the Crypt" landed in the ears of Nathan Conrad. The whispers of rebirth for the series stoked the fire of nostalgia in fans of former years, but simultaneously sparked a larger scheme in the Nashville based rapper, Spoken Nerd. Wheels turning, Nathan Conrad, aka Spoken Nerd, shared his ideas of cultivating a "Tales from the Crypt" mixtape to Cincinnati based producer, Juan Cosby. Surely the "on-brand" horror themed lyrics of Spoken Nerd would mesh seamlessly with the John Carpenter-esque beats by Juan to fuel fans of EC and, perhaps, catch the ears of EC themselves. Unfortunately, EC Comics went out of business in the 50's, and the internet rumors proved unfruitful of reboot, but the brainchild of Juan & Nerd's soldiered on. Much like the Crypt series, Grapes is an album that covers topics like deception, forbidden fruits, envy and sacrifice. You can hear features from E-Turn, Isaac Stinson, Darko the Super, MC Homeless and 247 of Out of Place on this project.

Solomon Childs has added his distinct lyrical fire and style to several Wu-Tang family projects most notably under his original moniker, Killa Bamz, on Cappadonna's The Pillage. He is also known as a member of Ghostface's crew Theodore Unit. Here is "Funeral Talk", Solomon's first ever Chambermusik Street Album. Cappadonna guest stars and 2 of the tracks are produced by G-Clef da Mad Komposa of Soul Kid Klik fame, one by Rza, and one by Remedy. This album was originally released as internet-only, back in 2004, but here for the first time it's being made available for retail, worldwide. Included on this release is the original version of "Outthink Me Now", which was heavily demanded by fans. This special 2024 pressing features a digital remastering of the original album, done with the latest audio technology.

Legs Akimbo, the latest offering from the eclectic producer and DJ, Skwirl, released by Cold Busted, is a vibrant tapestry of sound that dances boldly across genres, much like its title suggests a stance of uninhibited exuberance. The album is a playground of audacious sounds and rhythms, each track splayed out with a creative audacity that's both refreshing and exhilarating. From the space-age funk of "Ur M8's Jetta," with its electrified beats and wisps of harp, to the orchestral cut-ups and synthetic soul of "Inside," Skwirl crafts a soundscape that is as diverse as it is cohesive. The album is an open invitation to experience the world through Skwirl's genre-agnostic squiggles, blips, and booms, where musical conventions are playfully disregarded. "We'll Be Here" encapsulates this ethos perfectly, blending a snazzy rhythm with snatches of jazz-infused flute, creating an ambiance akin to a midnight fog enveloping city streets. The music, much like the artist himself, is an amalgamation of varied influences and experiences, from teenage roots in the Atlanta suburbs to transformative encounters in Berlin's vibrant music scene. Each track on Legs Akimbo is a testament to Skwirl's unique approach to music-making, where disparate musical universes don't just meet; they dance together in perfect harmony.

The pendulum of life swings from simple to complicated and swoops across everything in between. If the devil is in the details, the true meaning is in the grey areas. Whilst the quest for nuance is noble, sometimes, it pays to be intentional with your target and get to the point. For their first collaborative project, Str8 Shot, Gary "Sivion" Watson and Maurice "malex" Alexander aim, fire and spit with a barrage of hard-hitting Hip Hop that will inspire new and old heads alike. Across the beats and rhymes, the duo showcases kin-like chemistry, which extracts depth from simplicity. The opening salvo on Str8 Shot is like a special ops assignment meets manifesto. Heavy Gunner introduces MALEX's spaced-out Blade Runner-esque bounce, where Sivion shoots for the stars while swinging "a hot sword of the spirit". The experimental production and Sivion's staccato style sound like a chauffeur-driven ride in the Delorean from Back To The Future. Sivion then links up with long-time collaborator Braille and the Dallas freestyle king, Infored, on the latest single, Come Through Me. All three pilots plot a flight course to a higher level of mental liberation. MALEX's mischievous bleeps and blips encapsulate push-and-pull energy. The cheeky bop, in turn, opens up Sivion, Braille and Infored to go all the way in with a call and response flows while calling out pretentious folks prone to take the bait of what this world supposedly has to offer. The firing squad take a breather to reload their bullets on Straight Cool featuring Mokah Soulfly. Sivion, Malex and their fellow gunners shoot the breeze straight to the milky way and write bars on Mars. With live bass from the masterful Nigel Rivers (Erykah Badu, Royce Da 5'9" and Eric Roberson), sonically, the track converges with genuine reflections of their come-ups, tinges of otherworldliness and dashes of a five-star resort turn-down service. With eight tracks, Str8 Shot is a short, sharp, stirring experience that puts peps in steps and batteries in backs. Written by Christopher Mitchell for Ten Pounds of Gold.

Strongly limited edition of 300 copies of the 18th release in our »HHV Boombap 45's« series.

We are pleased to present another true underground nugget from many wantlists, again for the very first time on 45: Silouette's "Rude Girlz", produced by DJ Concrete from The Annexx Clique, finally gets a proper re-release. Fire!

Shuko´s new LP is something different. He and the producer Basti (Kanye West, Joey Badass, Timbaland) spent the last 3 years creating samples, learning vintage recordings and putting their knowledge of vintage soul jazz, 60´s and 70´s composer and r&b music into crafting this 31 track album. What makes this release so special is that you now are able to use those samples for your own music and recreating something new without the hustle and pain of clearing samples. Just visit tracklib, pay a little licence fee and register your new work with them. And even if you are not into creating music, this LP is a perfect soundtrack for a calm start into the day or something you will love to relax to.

Shuko Unveils Highly Anticipated New Album Jazzterfield 3 – A Masterful Blend of Hip-Hop, Soul, and Jazz

Celebrated producer Shuko returns with his latest album, Jazzterfield 3, a captivating fusion of hip-hop, soul, and jazz that continues to showcase his signature sound. The third installment in his critically acclaimed Jazzterfield series, this album is a sonic journey that bridges classic jazz influences with modern beats and soulful rhythms. Known for his collaborations with major artists and his standout solo work like Anderson Paak, Kanye West or Chance The Rapper, Shuko’s latest release delivers tracks that feel at home in both intimate listening sessions and vibrant playlists. Whether you’re a fan of golden-era hip-hop, rich jazz textures, or soul-soaked beats, Jazzterfield 3 brings these worlds together in a cohesive, organic sound.

Still in shrink but opened. Tiny wear.

Fifth volume of the “Cookies & Cream” Instrumental Hip-Hop series that started on Jakarta Records and now finds it’s grand finale on Shuko’s own For The Love Of it label. Shuko is a veteran beatmaker who worked with national and international greats like Anderson Paak, B-Real (Cypress Hill), Talib Kweli and many more, and partners up with his longtime friends and partner in crime F. Of Audiotreats once again.

After a 3 year break Shuko & F. Of Audiotreats are finally back with a new Cookies & Cream Edition. This is the Soundtrack for your summer jams, pool sessions and late night rides. A full length Album full with good vibes by the producers behind a lot tunes from acts like Talib Kweli, Big Pooh of Little Brothers, Kev Brown, B-Real of Cypress Hill, C.L. Smooth, Evidence, Fashawn and more. Cookies & Cream 4 is the first release on Shuko´s own music label „For the love of it“ and the start for a lot upcoming jams this year.

Nobody Planning To Leave is the new album from Curly Castro and PremRockaka ShrapKnel, fully produced by Controller 7. Featuring Open Mike Eagle, Onry Ozzborn, Lungs, Breezly Brewin, D-Styles (of the legendary Beat Junkies), and Elucid. The title represents a duality. Both a boastful claim and also a resigned recognition. Sometimes you’re planting your flag and sometimes you’re acknowledging that it’s all ultimately out of your control. With the exception of a few cases, nobody plans to leave. Nobody plans to abandon their passion either. Usually the slow grind of necessity chooses that for you. What started as a few DMs between Castro and Controller 7 in 2021 slowly morphed into a fully fleshed opus. Close your eyes and imagine De La Soul is Dead if the Plugs were steeped in the murky tea of the early aughts independent scene. It’s a propulsive, cohesive listen, that finds the rappers forging new ground both sonically and stylistically. The first ShrapKnel LP was wind, a self-titled sheer force that awoke the masses to the New. The second album was fire, forged in a Metal Lung, seasoned by smoke and libation alike. This third offering is earth, rooted in our influences, from soil-turned-vines-turned blades that scale the highest of structures.

Too many people sleep on Tougher Than Leather, Run-DMC’s fourth album. But hear us out as we plead the case for this amazing LP.
By 1988 there was a lot more competition in the rap game – Public Enemy, Boogie Down Productions, Eric B. & Rakim, Ice-T and many more had given
Hollis, Queens’ prodigal sons lots of competition. But Joe, Darryl and Jay were still at the top of their game, and hip-hop fans should never let this
classic – chiefly produced by their Queens neighbor, DJ and multi-instrumentalist Davy D[MX] – get lost in their crates.
For starters, the album’s first single, “Run’s House” b/w “Beats To The Rhyme” is arguably the most powerful one-two punch of the trio’s career,
showing contenders to the rap throne that they could still destroy a beat, tag-teaming with power at any speed. Not to be lost in the shuffle, fans were
also reminded on both sides that Jam-Master Jay remained one of the world’s best DJs, flexing the pinnacle of what would be called “turntablism” a
decade later. Both songs show a musical telepathy between all three that has rarely been equaled.
The second single, “Mary, Mary,” driven by an infectious Monkees sample, took a different approach, shrewdly ensuring that pop fans who jumped on
the Raising Hell bandwagon had something to chew on. But, like “Walk This Way,” the song wasn’t just bubblegum – there was an edge to it, and
the lyrical gymnastics were very real. It wasn’t selling out, it was allowing fans to buy in. “Papa Crazy,” driven in concept and by a sample from the
Temptations’ “Papa Was A Rolling Stone,” followed a similar pop-leaning path.
Overall, the lyrical content on the album was a step up from the group’s first three LPs. It’s easy to infer, looking back, that they were feeling the heat
from their younger competitors in the rap game. The genre was changing fast, and they were up to the challenge. On cuts like “Radio Station” they
bring substance to the grooves, by attacking Black Radio for its continual denigration of rap. “Tougher Than Leather” reminds the world that they were
still the Kings of Rock, with hard guitars to drive the point home. And “They Call Us Run-DMC” and “Soul To Rock And Roll” both bring things back to
their early days, with sure-fire park jam rhymes and killer cuts.
Tougher Than Leather, which went platinum up against a lot of competition, perfectly bookends the ‘80s output of one of the decade’s most
important groups. It encompasses the full range of the trio’s capabilities, and reminds us that Run-DMC should never be forgotten as both pioneers
and party-rockers. And so, we say, long live Joe, Darryl and Jay!

Released in 1988, Tougher Than Leather followed Run-DMC’s massively successful third album Raising Hell and furthered their innovative, aggressive, and hard-hitting sound that defined the hip-hop scene of the 1980s. From the incredible lead single, “Run’s House” to their cover of The Monkee’s “Mary, Mary,” Tougher Than Leather features a slew of incredible hits and is essential listening for any fan of classic hip-hop. Tougher Than Leather blends Run-DMC’s infectious, charismatic flows and heavily sample-based production with hard-hitting raps, soaring choruses, and rapid-fire delivery. Stand out tracks include “Run’s House,” “I’m Not Going Out Like That,” as well as “Beats to the Rhyme,” a story-based cut that stands as an anthem to hip-hop.

SOURCED FROM THE ORIGINAL MASTER TAPES AND PRESSED ON MOFI SUPERVINYL
1/2" / 30 IPS analogue master to DSD 256 to analogue console to lathe



Run-D.M.C.'s Raising Hell remains the turning point at which hip-hop crashed through mainstream barriers and never left. Anchored by the crossover smash "Walk This Way," the 1986 blockbuster still sounds like a revolution unfolding in real time. It has everything – hard-rock riffs, turntable scratching, itchy rhythms, hit singles – not the least of which are the trio's invigorating raps and inseparable chemistry. And now it's the first rap record afforded audiophile treatment, courtesy of Mobile Fidelity.

Sourced from the original master tapes and pressed on MoFi SuperVinyl, the reissue label's numbered-edition 180g 33RPM SuperVinyl LP elevates Raising Hell to sonic heights on par with its musical and cultural significance. Ranked the 123rd Greatest Album of All Time by Rolling Stone, 43rd on Pitchfork's Greatest Albums of the 1980s, one of the Top 100 Albums of All Time by TIME – and included on "Best of" lists by Spin, Paste, XXL, Entertainment Weekly, and basically every other significant media outlet – the triple-platinum effort rocks the house.

Benefitting from the ultra-low noise floor and groove definition of SuperVinyl, Raising Hell unleashes a torrent of massive dynamics and tsunami of frequency-plumbing details underlined by Rick Rubin's taut, crisp, albeit raw and streetwise production. Just as the Queens-based group both defined what hip-hop could represent – and displayed just how big it could get – Rubin's work melded ear-worm hooks, savvy drum loops, metal-leaning guitars, and, of course, Run and D.M.C.'s cross-fire lyrical interplay into watertight frameworks bursting with ideas, tones, samples, and beats. Heard anew on Mobile Fidelity vinyl, Raising Hell is in every regard the aural equivalent of a direct-to-console 1970s classic. And it sounds as fresh as hell.

As for the music, it ranks among the most influential, inventive, and invigorating ever released – rap or otherwise. Vanguard artists such as Ice-T, Eminem, Jay-Z, and Public Enemy's Chuck D – who declared it his all-time favorite and "the first record that made me realize this was an album-oriented genre" – have testified on behalf of its brilliance. And never mind the presence of the Top 5 single "Walk This Way," whose power helped make Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Joe Perry relevant for the first time in nearly a decade – and literally put Run-D.M.C. in bedrooms ranging from the Bronx to Bartlett to Bad Axe.

Look instead to the rest of the entirely filler-free set, be it the corkscrew turns, slippery wordplay, and "My Sharona"-meets-"Mickey" mixology of the boisterous "It's Tricky," the fat-but-minimized bass grooves and warped turntable wobble of the hysterical "You Be Illin'," chimes-accented inertia and boombox-on- shoulder thunder of the now-iconic "Peter Piper," or voice-as-percussion attack of the funky "Is It Live." With Raising Hell, the answer to the question is always affirmative – a sensation bolstered by the fact the group always had something to say.

The definition of Golden Age Hip-Hop in every way, Run-D.M.C. avoids the negativity and misogyny that later plagued the style, spinning assertive tales about identity (the biographical and culture-changing "My Adidas"), work ethics ("Perfection"), and, most notably, pride (the Harriet Tubman- and Malcom X.-referencing "Proud to Be Black"). Pavement-packed inner cities, tree-lined suburbs, and cornfield-rimmed rural areas would never again be the same. And rocking a rhyme that's right on time would become trickier than ever.

Paris based Roforofo Jazz is a 7-piece liveband fronted by Chicago born MC Days (aka RacecaR), with a certain taste for adventurous blends, mixing hip hop, afrobeat and jazz into their very own style. After more than 15 years slashing the afrobeat of Les Freres Smith with his guitar cuts, Martin Smith digged into the musical sediments and silts in a swamp of hip hop, funk groove, afro power, jazz freedom radicality, with a certain taste for adventurous blends. This wax solid 5 tracks Vinyl was recorded live in Montreuil (France) at Studios La Peche, in November 2019, just a few weeks after the band toured in Nigeria and played at the mythical New Afrika Shrine on the occasion of Felabration 2019, where they got invited to perform by the Fela Kuti family for a series of concerts in Lagos. The 5 titles include the single “Fire Eater”, a raw afro hip hop tune mixing rhythms in the tradition of polyrhythm afrofunk tunes, while also alternating in between jazzy mood and burning hip hop anthem. “Dump It” is a dark, mid tempo beat, borrowing the groove signature of ethiopian soul, and coated with hip hop sharp drops, while horns bring the jazzyness through their themes. “Helelyos” is a cover/extrapolation of Iranian singer Zia’s hit, to which Days vocals bring an heavy old school hip hop vibe. “2Kick1” is a relentless afrobeat oriented tune, though with a languorous spacy chorus that breaks with the traditional afrobeat routine. And “What We Think We Saw” ends the EP with an opening to more psychedelic visions, in which a Gil Scott-Heron spoken word style meets jazzy space echoes, flutes under massive reverbs in a global vibe that could remind old analog recordings of Mandrill, Cymande or LKJ.

Paris based Roforofo Jazz is a 7-piece liveband fronted by Chicago born MC Days (aka RacecaR), with a certain taste for adventurous blends, mixing hip hop, afrobeat and jazz into their very own style. After more than 15 years slashing the afrobeat of Les Freres Smith with his guitar cuts, Martin Smith digged into the musical sediments and silts in a swamp of hip hop, funk groove, afro power, jazz freedom radicality, with a certain taste for adventurous blends. This wax solid 5 tracks Vinyl was recorded live in Montreuil (France) at Studios La Peche, in November 2019, just a few weeks after the band toured in Nigeria and played at the mythical New Afrika Shrine on the occasion of Felabration 2019, where they got invited to perform by the Fela Kuti family for a series of concerts in Lagos. The 5 titles include the single “Fire Eater”, a raw afro hip hop tune mixing rhythms in the tradition of polyrhythm afrofunk tunes, while also alternating in between jazzy mood and burning hip hop anthem. “Dump It” is a dark, mid tempo beat, borrowing the groove signature of ethiopian soul, and coated with hip hop sharp drops, while horns bring the jazzyness through their themes. “Helelyos” is a cover/extrapolation of Iranian singer Zia’s hit, to which Days vocals bring an heavy old school hip hop vibe. “2Kick1” is a relentless afrobeat oriented tune, though with a languorous spacy chorus that breaks with the traditional afrobeat routine. And “What We Think We Saw” ends the EP with an opening to more psychedelic visions, in which a Gil Scott-Heron spoken word style meets jazzy space echoes, flutes under massive reverbs in a global vibe that could remind old analog recordings of Mandrill, Cymande or LKJ.

On his twelfth studio LP in nearly 20 years, Reks sounds just as hungry and passionate on T.H.I.N.G.S. (The Hunger Inside Never Gets Satisfied) as he did when Along Came The Chosen dropped back in 2001. Perhaps even more so. There seems to be a fire that gets lit under the Lawrence, MA native whenever he begins crafting a new album. “While my conceptualizing process has grown over the years, the actual approach to getting started has remained consistent,” Reks says. “There’s a youthful eagerness that comes over me every time I’m about to start a new record.” That feeling is palpable throughout T.H.I.N.G.S., an album bursting with everything you’d want from a Reks record, but also so much more. There are certainly instances of his trademark wordplay mixed with bravado on here, like the Apollo Brown-produced banger “King of the Town” featuring Lucky Dice & Chi Knox. But the real core of this record is Reks’ reckoning with bigger societal issues that have simply run rampant for far too long. And given his talents with the pen, he’s able to blend strong songwriting with deep, conceptual lyrics. Just listen to how he tackles white privilege on the otherwise catchy “Rachel Green” or the way he chronicles being Black in America on “White House.” That’s not even mentioning “The Complex,” a lyrically gripping look at Ptsd and Big Pharma featuring Pharoahe Monch, and his personal favorite track, “Nana & Grampy’s Song,” a heartfelt dedication to Black love. For Reks, it’s all about delivering the best possible music to his fans while staying true to himself. And he does exactly that not just through his own gifts, but also through collaborations with the likes of Pharoahe Monch, Lil Fame, Nottz, Apollo Brown, Statik Selektah, Evidence, and Marco Polo, among others.

On his twelfth studio LP in nearly 20 years, Reks sounds just as hungry and passionate on T.H.I.N.G.S. (The Hunger Inside Never Gets Satisfied) as he did when Along Came The Chosen dropped back in 2001. Perhaps even more so. There seems to be a fire that gets lit under the Lawrence, MA native whenever he begins crafting a new album. “While my conceptualizing process has grown over the years, the actual approach to getting started has remained consistent,” Reks says. “There’s a youthful eagerness that comes over me every time I’m about to start a new record.” That feeling is palpable throughout T.H.I.N.G.S., an album bursting with everything you’d want from a Reks record, but also so much more. There are certainly instances of his trademark wordplay mixed with bravado on here, like the Apollo Brown-produced banger “King of the Town” featuring Lucky Dice & Chi Knox. But the real core of this record is Reks’ reckoning with bigger societal issues that have simply run rampant for far too long. And given his talents with the pen, he’s able to blend strong songwriting with deep, conceptual lyrics. Just listen to how he tackles white privilege on the otherwise catchy “Rachel Green” or the way he chronicles being Black in America on “White House.” That’s not even mentioning “The Complex,” a lyrically gripping look at Ptsd and Big Pharma featuring Pharoahe Monch, and his personal favorite track, “Nana & Grampy’s Song,” a heartfelt dedication to Black love. For Reks, it’s all about delivering the best possible music to his fans while staying true to himself. And he does exactly that not just through his own gifts, but also through collaborations with the likes of Pharoahe Monch, Lil Fame, Nottz, Apollo Brown, Statik Selektah, Evidence, and Marco Polo, among others.

Showoff and Brick Records have done it again, teaming a Lawrence, MA fire-spitter with the legendary talents of super producer DJ Premier. First it was Termanology and Preem getting together on the now-classic singles “Watch How It Go Down” and “So Amazing” and now it’s Reks’ turn to make another Premier-laced anthem with “Say Goodnight.” And it does anything but disappoint with a B-Side that ain’t no joke with DJ/producer Statik Selektah remixing Reks “Big Dreamers” which appeared on Statik’s own critically acclaimed Spell My Name Right: The Album. This time around, on the Lawtown Remix, Lawrence rhyme sayers Termanology and Krumb Snatcha make an appearance for this dedication to the late, great MC Scientifik. And the bonus cut, “Pray For Me,” is a relentless rant that takes aim at the entire industry, a song not to be missed.

Ambitious, complex and hooky breakthru opus by NW english rapper/producer/songwriter Rainy Miller, issued by The White Hotel’s Head II label and featuring contributions from Space Afrika, Blackhaine, Maxwell Sterling, Jam City, Georgia Ellery, Henzo and more. Highly emotive and bruised gear, it’s essential listening if yr into Future, Chief Keef, Drake, more eaze, Rabit, Wayne Phoenix, Iceboy Violet, Kanye, Burial…

No doubt it’s the most cinematic depiction of what makes Rainy tick, with a choral prologue that sounds like a Burial vignette, precipitating a downpour of emotions that veer from tender to seething bass-boosted drill blowouts. The slippery combo of self-skewering and tearful Autotuned vocals and brittle, barely-present electronics immediately and inarguably recall Kanye’s 808s & Heartbreak, but here refracted into greyscale tales of Northern introspection, confidently torched 'n bleary-eyed industrial experiments.

Miller's best known at this point for his work with his college compatriot Tom Heyes (aka Blackhaine), whose ragged drill/power electronic subversions loom large over "Desquamation". But where Heyes zeroes in on viscera, isolation and substance-fueled rage, Miller's compositions are more pensive, melancholy and emotionally fluid, finding hopefulness in supposedly grim terrain on tracks like 'There's A Fiesta MkII On Fire'. "A Fiesta burns bright," he sings, accenting the last word as it collapses into chattering electronics and snatched Rhodes piano loops. It's a glorious amalgamation of influences, folding grime and ambient signals into something altogether new. From here, Miller pushes even further into the abyss, enlisting Space Afrika and Maxwell Sterling to assist on 'Breath, Sigh', a powerful symphony of sheet noise, ice-cold pads and soulful electric piano weaving around Miller's vulnerable voice.

On 'July Iii', the beats are reduced to pinpricks, heaving listlessly between stolen breaths and punctuated kick blasts, ‘while Misery is as Misery Does' revels in negative space, allowing overdriven pads to evoke an anxious tenor for Rainy’s melancholia. 'is 2 Die' grazes the same mood before erupting into a wrecking-ball roll of distorted kick drums and elegiac synths, and Blackhaine shows up on 'Way Out', the pair following 2020's breakout "Armour" with a corrosive back-and-forth, playing to each others' strengths.

Benefiting massively from repeat listens, ‘Desquamation' is an absorbing, deliriously atmospheric re-definition of drill, ambient and rap modes with bare north west soul; an arresting portrait of an ascendant artist attempting to find comfort in their artistic skin, and effectively broadcasting the malaise, uncertainty and future shock of the British working class thru this f*cking grim time of ours.

qu’s debut album where did the sun go? presents his sonic transformation from a producer to a producer artist in his own right, not only engineering beats, but writing songs, arranging instrumentation and directing his own vision onto a full length album. where did the sun go? features prominent artists like Jay Prince (uk) and Serious Klein (ger), emerging artists Josh Kye (uk) and Malaya (us) as well as Kabul Fire artists agajon and Ninja Kidsoul. on 15 tracks qu proves his versatility in creating an alternative sound that is inspired by the music traditions of hiphop, rnb & jazz.

First time on vinyl. Brown & White vinyl. Limited to 1000 copies. Memphis Rap legend Project Pat released his third studio album Layin' Da Smack Down in 2002 on CD and Cassette via Loud/Columbia/Hypnotize Minds. Following up Mista Don't Play, Project Pat spits rapid-fire street tales of the dirty south over DJ Paul and Juicy J's signature Three 6 Mafia bangin' 808 beats. From rowdy club tracks to smoother pimp tales and true-to-life stories of being incarcerated, Project Pat delivers another Hypnotize Minds North Memphis classic. The album also contains the single "Choose U" which would be reworked in 2007 for UGK's "International Players Anthem." Get On Down in partnership with Sony Music's Certified is proud to present Layin' Da Smack Down for the first time on vinyl. Pressed on colored vinyl packaged in a gatefold jacket with a printed insert and numbered OBI limited to 1000 copies.

On his album Negro Deluxe Siifu trades in soulful rap for punk, fueled by the Black experience in America followed by spiritual jazz and poetry. A beautiful chaotic collage of sounds that reflect the black man’s thoughts on the day-to-day. It doesn’t take long to reach the heart of Negro, Pink Siifu’s new album. It’s an aggressive collection of hardcore punk and free jazz, with bold lyrics that encourage shooting back at trigger-happy law enforcement. This album profoundly communicated the anger of an African-American community beset by police violence a month before the murder of George Floyd lit the streets on fire. In April 2021, he revisited the project with Negro Deluxe, which doubled the length of the original.

Pink Siifu tells Bomb Magazine “after we were done mastering and mixing, Zeroh was like, “Yo, Negro is like fire, and Negro Deluxe is like smoke….So I would characterize Negro Deluxe as, like, after you’re angry, after you’ve punched a wall, after you beat somebody up, whatever, how do I channel that into something else? How do I just let it go? I feel like Negro Deluxe is that, for real, in a nutshell. It’s like the chaos calmed down after all the fire’s gone and the smoke is in the air.”

It isn’t anything like ensley, Siifu’s breakthrough 2018 LP. Where that record used mid-tempo soul and hip-hop to score his upbringing, Negro is a riotous mix calling for Black revolution. It’s also the most fearless project in his growing discography. Negro harkens back to 1992, to Ice-T’s thrash metal band Body Count, song “Cop Killer”.

This album is meant to remind us of Rodney King, Racist Cops, The Black Panther Party, and Christopher Dorner, the ex-L.A. police officer who, in 2013, went on a violent shooting spree against his former colleagues and their family members due to seeing his own policeman violate the people there supposed to be protecting. “It’s about America, It’s about the trauma that comes from the flag. It’s about understanding that it’s okay to be angry.”

In the album, originally titled ‘To Be Angry’, Siifu started crafting Negro after listening to old Afrocentric jazz and watching clips of novelist and poet Amiri Baraka and civil rights activist Stokely Carmichael, reading Sun Ra’s sci-fi poetry book, The Planet Is Doomed, and started studying Bad Brains, June Tyson, Death, Ras G, and many others.

On his album Negro Deluxe Siifu trades in soulful rap for punk, fueled by the Black experience in America followed by spiritual jazz and poetry. A beautiful chaotic collage of sounds that reflect the black man’s thoughts on the day-to-day. It doesn’t take long to reach the heart of Negro, Pink Siifu’s new album. It’s an aggressive collection of hardcore punk and free jazz, with bold lyrics that encourage shooting back at trigger-happy law enforcement. This album profoundly communicated the anger of an African-American community beset by police violence a month before the murder of George Floyd lit the streets on fire. In April 2021, he revisited the project with Negro Deluxe, which doubled the length of the original. Pink Siifu tells Bomb Magazine “after we were done mastering and mixing, Zeroh was like, “Yo,Negrois like fire, andNegro Deluxeis like smoke….So I would characterizeNegro Deluxeas, like, after you’re angry, after you’ve punched a wall, after you beat somebody up, whatever, how do I channel that into something else? How do I just let it go? I feel likeNegro Deluxeis that, for real, in a nutshell. It’s like the chaos calmed down after all the fire’s gone and the smoke is in the air.” It isn’t anything like ensley, Siifu’s breakthrough 2018 LP. Where that record used mid-tempo soul and hip-hop to score his upbringing, Negro is a riotous mix calling for Black revolution. It’s also the most fearless project in his growing discography. Negro harkens back to 1992, to Ice-T’s thrash metal band Body Count,song “Cop Killer”. This album is meant to remind us of Rodney King, Racist Cops, The Black Panther Party, and Christopher Dorner, the ex-L.A. police officer who, in 2013, went on a violent shooting spree against his former colleagues and their family members due to seeing his own policeman violate the people there supposed to be protecting. “It’s about America, It’s about the trauma that comes from the flag. It’s about understanding that it’s okay to be angry.”

Breakbeat Paradise Recordings has teamed up with hip-hop legend Paul Sitter who has gather some of dopest MCs on the planet to feature on the epic LP: Hip-Hip Delivery.
The LP is a celebration to the oldskool hiphop vibes that started it all by cutting and scratching up the classic funk record, twisted in a brand-new way with MCs from around the world dropping fire on the mic.

Starting out with the intoxicating Global Chremistry with Craig G and some big funky grooves. Moving on to the Go Move featuring the awesome Andy Cooper on a smooth boom bap joint. The classic Wild Thing gets a oldskool hiphop twist with some big rhymes by Birdapres and cuts by DJ Robert Smith. The breaks are about to get serious as Chromedrops some high paced rhymes on the Who's Nice Kid track. Finally the A-Side finishes up paying some respect to some of the classics beat and breaks from the early hip days on the King Of Rock jam.

The flip side kicks off with more groovy, soulful hip hop featuring Andy Cooper on the catchy Chasing the Funk. Paul Sitter breaks is down nice on another slick hip hop anthem B-Boy Impressions before letting Dr Syntax take it over on the mic on the It's On Like That jam.
The last 3 joints on the album lets Paul Sitter get busy on some funky hip-hop creations showcasing his classic breakbeats and heavy sample techniques.

Breakbeat Paradise Recordings' first full album release since 2019 to drop on 12" vinyl but with an instant classic release like this we felt there was no other way to do it.

Limited 7“ vinyl (300 copies). Only at HHV!
All proceeds will go to the club Panke.
The Panke is a creative multi-purpose space and an alternative meeting place for the up-and-coming creative scene. Especially the underground Hip Hop and beat scene has found a new home in Wedding. So it's no wonder that the producers Figub Brazlevic and B-Side have come up together with English rapping Berlin MC CheeK (and a featuring with Prof. X),in support for the Panke.
»HHV For The Culture« our small contribution to support the Berlin club scene. Save your club!

Packed Rich is on fire, this time joining forces with IROCC for Pacced Rock. Blast these loud and move yo ass!

Limited edition of 200 copies, only available at HHV!

From the cold corners of the Canadian soil, Illect's Newselph returns with some fiery furnace baked heat in the form of a remix album. On If It Ain't Broke, Remix It, Newselph carries on tradition in the spirit of Hip Hop legends like Pete Rock, Erick Sermon and Buckwild in the sacred art of remixing and refixing. Like the boom baptists before him, Newselph's ear hears transmissions reserved for angels and dolphins. He takes tracks that in their original incarnations are perfectly fine, banging even, and gets all up in the inner workings of said slaps to create something entirely different. For his latest release, he mines his backyard and reworks ten tracks from his Illect labelmates. The lead single, Those Were The Days, features the UK's Kinetik and Breis. Newselph turns breezy into bluesy, and the track morphs into a makeshift teleportation device to a simpler time when fat laces, arcade games and handwritten letters reigned supreme. The Flowers remix features Jurny Big and Brand Nubian's most recognisable voice, Sadat X. The two emcees come together to the world and the roles they play within it. Newselph's push-and-pull guitar groove would fit perfectly as the backdrop for a campfire convo filled with nostalgic stories and witty anecdotes. Things get deeper than Atlantis on Matters Of Man, where Newselph again links up with his man, Sareem Poems, and one-third of the Ugly Heroes crew, Chris Orrick. Serving up a healthy slice of adult contemporary musings, the two rhyme writers break down this thing called life with the kind of knowledge, wisdom and understanding that would make King Solomon chill. Like watery clay in the hands of Sam Wheat and Molly Jensen, Newselph scrapes and shapes a rubbery bassline, dreamy droplets of keys and pensive melodies into a reassuring ode of optimism. Other guest appearances on the album include Sivion, Sojourn, MidCentury Modern, Ozay Moore, DJ Because and many more. Like the classic TV show The Wire, all the pieces matter, and the sum of parts come together seamlessly to form something more meaningful.

Part of the “Ultimate Supreme Ninja Champion” series which is loosely based around 1980s bootleg ninja movies. The a-side is a rap / heavy metal song produced by Mr. Green featuring Gucci Mane and the new band Garden of Fire. The song is entitled “Gucci Ninja Assassins 2: In The Metal Garden of Fire” and the songs instrumental and drums stems are also included. The b-side is music from the 緑 music library, which is music for tv/film that is also popular for producer to use as samples.

Get yo ass in the house, robot-- you cyber-spectre, you outhouse prime minister, you hard-headed mirror ninja, snapping selfies, living in the pixelated seams between bursts the of flashing images, birthed in a pool of TV static and Tik Tok dust. Black Encyclopedia OF THE AIR is here, not to save but to drown you. Heads better learn how to swim cause listen, this record is beat soup, hearty yet still minimal, a sonic mirage of prophetic soul that drop kicks your "chill beats to study to" Youtube playlist and hyper-intellectual rap podcasts into a hadron collider; it's only black matter on the other side-- 13 mesmerizing tracks about memory and imprinting and the future, all of them wafting through untouched space like the ghostly cinders of a world on fire, unbound and uncharted, vast and stretching across the universe. Moor Mother is a holographic figment of an Afrotopian dream, all at once goddess and warrior, mystic and cyborg, griot and future time traveller, etching noisy pieces of reverie into our consciousness for decades now. But check it: on Black Encyclopedia she's joined by a wide-range of friends, collaborators and co-conspirators on a trip through the murky cosmos, navigating the black universe with stardust as currency. In these times, they'll say, as they click and mash their way through the same inter-webs that seek to strangle them, Black Encyclopedia OF THE AIR is just what we need: a post-everything, 12:01 on the doomsday clock, anti-trip hop type of situation. "We ain't gotta fight no more," they'll say; the rest of us, we'll put this record on and imagine again that it's real.

Full album from rapper Mista monk produced by Inkswel - featuring super nice guests Illa J, Laneous, Reggie B, Colonel Red, People Without Shoes and Planetsel The son of a mixed-race Zimbabwean mother and white Australian father, Liam Monkhouse aka Mista Monk was born and raised in Katherine, a rural town in the Northern Territory, far from both his African roots and the urban environment most hip-hop evokes. But rap music spoke to the young Monk’s fledgling sense of a mixed race identity, with his hometown being a strange dichotomy of Ocker Aussie and Indigenous culture. These cultural crossroads and their broader implications have informed his lyrics for over a two decades now, culminating in his first solo hip-hop album 'Muti' with prolific producer Inkswel on production duties. Mista Monk represents these crossroads with rhythmic flows and conscious word-play illuminating his world view from the macro of humanity's ills to the miniature of personal identity with nods to fun off-the-cuff flows and cartoon-esque narratives making for a balanced spread of flavours to navigate the vivid sample driven soundscapes provided by Inkswel. He is the founding member of multi-cultural hip-hop band Culture Connect (circa 2000) and currently performs with Afro-Jazz outfit Black Jesus Experience; frequent collaborators of Ethio-Jazz star Mulatu Astatke. Bringing a definitive raw fire to live grooves, hip-hop and Afro-House, Monk brings 20 years experience on the mike and it shows in his commanding stage presence. No stranger to the club and festival circuit in Australia, Monk has held it down down under with artists such as Mista Savona, Digital Afrika, Ganga Giri, Monkey Marc, Combat Wombat, and Laneous amongst many others. Black Jesus Experience have appeared twice at Glastonbury (uk) , and Big Chill Festivals (uk), as well as Azgo (Mozambique) and Bushfire (Swaziland) Festivals during tours to Europe and Africa. Four trips to the motherland have featured numerous tours of Ethiopia with performances with Mulatu Astake at United Nations Africa HQ and solo shows in Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

Burning Desire, MIKE's ninth studio album, is released on his 10k label with features from Earl Sweatshirt, Larry June, Liv.e, Venna, Lila Ramani (of Crumb), El Cousteau, Niontay, Mark William Lewis, Klein and Taka. A darkly romantic horror with comedic twists, it tells the story of a fire deeply rooted in revenge and devastation that hides behind a complicated beauty. Almost entirely self-produced under MIKE's dj blackpower alias, it follows Faith Is A Rock, the collaborative album with The Alchemist and Wiki. For the first time, live instruments add depth and rich musicality to MIKE's universe. The album has been aptly described by Pitchfork as 'confident and clear-eyed, heralding an ambitious new era for the hometown hero of his'.