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This is a limited edition of 150. Produced by Heatmakerz, Erick Sermon, Boogeyman, Illmind, Apollo Brown and Justice League. Joell Ortiz & Kxng Crooked met the year they both won XXL's coveted Freshmen of the Year Award. The two's careers are as legendary as any in the rap game. Joell Ortiz started by signing to Dr. Dre's Aftermath label, then moving to Shady records as part of the Super group Slaughterhouse with Joe Budden, Royce Da 5'9 and Kxng Crooked. Add to that a fresh feature on Eminem's newest album "Music To Be Murdered By." Meanwhile, Kxng Crooked was signed to Virgin Records at just 17 before joining Death Row Records. He's had a flourishing solo career including collaborations along the way with TechN9ne, 2Pac, Benny The Butcher, Raekwon, Akon, Ray J and more. The West Coast LBC representer Kxng Crooked and Brooklyn's Joell Ortiz have finally come together for the new joint project "H.A.R.D." on Mello Music Group.

Joell Ortiz & KXNG Crooked met the year they both won XXL's coveted Freshmen of the Year Award. The two's careers are as legendary as any in the rap game. Joell Ortiz started by signing to Dr. Dre's Aftermath label, then moving to Shady records as part of the Super group Slaughterhouse with Joe Budden, Royce Da 5'9 and KXNG Crooked. Add to that a fresh feature on Eminem's newest album "Music To Be Murdered By." Meanwhile, KXNG Crooked was signed to Virgin Records at just 17 before joining Death Row Records. He's had a flourishing solo career including collaborations along the way with TechN9ne, 2Pac, Benny The Butcher, Raekwon, Akon, Ray J and more. The West Coast LBC representer KXNG Crooked and Brooklyn's Joell Ortiz have finally come together for the new joint project "H.A.R.D." on Mello Music Group.

Joell Ortiz & KXNG Crooked met the year they both won XXL's coveted Freshmen of the Year Award. The two's careers are as legendary as any in the rap game. Joell Ortiz started by signing to Dr. Dre's Aftermath label, then moving to Shady records as part of the Super group Slaughterhouse with Joe Budden, Royce Da 5'9 and KXNG Crooked. Add to that a fresh feature on Eminem's newest album "Music To Be Murdered By." Meanwhile, KXNG Crooked was signed to Virgin Records at just 17 before joining Death Row Records. He's had a flourishing solo career including collaborations along the way with TechN9ne, 2Pac, Benny The Butcher, Raekwon, Akon, Ray J and more. The West Coast LBC representer KXNG Crooked and Brooklyn's Joell Ortiz have finally come together for the new joint project "H.A.R.D." out May 29th on Mello Music Group.

Since first starting out the Oracle series in
2004, Grafh has come a long way but is still
the same cinematic emcee he was back then
and he’s back to prove it once again on the
third instalment in collaboration with DJ
Green Lantern. The tape features a plethora
of top-tier features from the likes of Griselda’s
own Conway and Benny, Royce Da 5’9”,
Crooked I and Hopsin among others and
production credits by Pete Rock, Harry Fraud,
DJ Shay and of course Green Lantern himself.
We are proud to bring this tape on vinyl as a
limited edition of 300 hand-numbered copies:
50 on multiColored Vinyl w/ poster, 100 on
clear lime vinyl, 150 on black vinyl. This is the Black Vinyl.

Starting off their careers as young protege to the legendary hip-hop producer Kutmasta Kurt, Rushden & Diamonds first got their start writing rhymes and making beats while digging in the crates of 1980’s rnb and royal orchestral music. The duo’s early productions would eventually make their way onto R&D’s debut release “2010”, a critically acclaimed double album hip-hopera which featured the likes of MC Paul Barman, Moka Only, Dylan Ross (Rozz Dyliams) voicing as an alias and more.

Now, while channeling inspirations from their favorite retro music, video games, and action movie culture, Rushden & Diamonds' bring you their highly anticipated follow up to “2010” appropriately titled "2020". The new 10 track studio album features the likes of Kool Keith, Kutmasta Kurt, Moka Only, Dylan Ross (Rozz Dyliams), Mega Ran, Naoto Tanaka, Castro Satoshi and more.

Fred The Godson gave listeners a couple drums in 2019 on his collab album with Joell Ortiz, Gorilla Glue. The effort was well-received by fans and critics alike. Be that as it may, Gordo plans to kick off 2020 with more fire. He's linked up with 38 Spesh and his TCF Music Group to release God Level. The album includes features from 38 Spesh, Benny The Butcher, Jim Jones, Axel Leon, and more. However, the lead single is a solo aural assault dedicated to getback titled Retaliation. This litany of intricate punchlines over a hard Hesami beat is the perfect intro to God Level. For those not in the know, Fred The Godson is a relatively underground emcee born and raised in South Bronx, New York City. Throughout his burgeoning career, he's released a slew of projects and collaborated with the likes of Lil Kim, Raekwon, Maino, Fatman Scoop, Pusha T, Remo The Hitmaker, Oun-P, Murder Mook, Loaded Lux, Charlie Clips, Chubby Jag, Dade County Mustafa and many more.

Known for impressive lyricism and streetwise wordplay set to dusty soul and jazz loops, Atlanta native Tha God Fahim has defied expectations for hip-hop from his city, and his steady stream of output continues to draw attention. Just a few years into his career, the talented emcee/producer has already released more than 100 projects, establishing himself as one of the most prolific artists in rap today. Despite his rapidly growing audience, Tha God Fahim remains an enigma, releasing little background information and maintaining an air of mystery about himself, similar to frequent collaborator Mach-Hommy. Now, Nature Sounds is proud to announce "Lost Kingz", a brand new album from Tha God Fahim. Available worldwide on CD, vinyl, and digital outlets, "Lost Kingz" features appearances from Mach-Hommy and Vinnie Paz, plus production by DJ Muggs, The Architect, C-Lance, and Fahim himself.

Haviah Mighty didn’t need to change her birth name when she decided to dedicate her career to music. In fact, Mighty couldn’t be
more accurate a word to describe the artist, named one of XXL’s 15 Toronto Rappers You Should Know in 2019.
Raised in a musical household in Brampton, Ontario, Mighty started singing at the age of 4, rapping at 11, and producing at 15.
Well-known for being one of the three MCs who make up The Sorority — a hip-hop group born during an all-female cypher on International
Women’s Day in 2016 — Mighty is making equally large waves as a solo artist.
Haviah has been releasing music independently since 2009, but it was her project, Flower City (2017), that propelled her solo
career into further success. To date, Mighty recently released Polaris Prize-winning album, 13th Floor (2019), her most fully-realized
project to date - making history as the first hip hop artist and the first black woman to ever receive the award. Garnering overwhelming
praise from the likes of Pitchfork, Billboard, Hot New Hip Hop, and Lyrical Lemonade to name a few, Haviah continues
to carve out spaces that boldly defy gendered expectations for women in hip hop.
Haviah’s explosive live show, filled with in-your-face intensity and her fast, technical flows, has also quickly developed her reputation
as one to keep an eye on, earning her opening slots for acclaimed artists like Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, Redman and
Method Man, Sheck Wes, Nelly, Desiigner, and Kranium.

From Long Beach, California and Gun Rule, MI unearths the newly refined classical Wu-Tang x C.O.B sounds of elite lyricism and production hand crafted by none other than Kxng Crooked aka Crooked I and Bronze Nazareth. Gravitas features 14 powerful tracks from the impeccable duo featuring the likes of RZA, Ghostface Killah, DMX, Snoop Dogg, Royce da 5’9?, Hus Kingpin, LA the Darkman, Planet Asia, Killah Priest, Bishop Lamont, Benny the Butcher, .38 Spesh and many more.

Veteran Toronto MC, Dan-e-o debuted in 1996 with his first single “Dear Hip Hop” - now considered a Canadian Hip-Hop classic. The release sparked a more than two-decade career complete with numerous album releases, battle rap victories and a growing actor’s resume. On April 23, 2014, Dan-e-o became a father. His fifth solo album, "The Day It All Changed" doubles as a soulful ode to his wonderful daughter, Melina and his most mature, polished presentation of lyricism to date. The LP features guest appearances from Wordsworth, Pearl Gates, Choclair, Ro Dolla and up-and-coming R&B sensation, Xentury.

Danny Brown’s fifth studio LP uknowhatimsayin¿ drops at an intriguing point in the rapper’s career. After breaking out with his second album XXX, consolidating fame with the follow-up Old and then blowing the game wide open through 2016’s landmark Atrocity Exhibition, Brown’s status as king of the underground feels assured these days. The question as he surveys his domain, is; what next?

Brown’s answer is to make his most focused record yet. A svelte eleven tracks - short when compared to the sprawling opuses of his past - uknowhatimsayin¿ is a more thoughtful affair than anything Brown has previously released. Gone are the tales of all-night benders yammered with cartoonish intensity over beats that sound like an EDM rave in hell. Instead Brown comes off as considered and in control, his flows spun out with poise and eloquence.

The production here befits the changes in Brown’s delivery. While Brown has always been a great rapper, uknowhatimsayin¿ will go down as his first hip-hop record. While the instrumentals here are laced with the psychedelic potency of Atrocity Exhibition, they also rumble and slap in a manner that recalls classic 90’s boom-bap. This change in sound is unsurprising when you consider uknowhatimsayin¿’s executive producer - none other than the legendary Q-Tip.

uknowhatimsayin¿’s features list also feels carefully curated. JPEGMAFIA, heir apparent to Brown’s throne, gets in amongst it on ‘Negro Spiritual’. Unsurprisingly this new energy turns ‘Negro Spiritual’ into one of the album’s wildest tracks, a head-spinner that would have slotted easily into Atrocity Exhibition. Besides Run The Jewels and Brown schooling younger MCs on ‘3 Tearz’ the other guest spots are reserved for singers - Obongjayar turns in vocals on two tracks while Blood Orange croons softly on penultimate cut ‘Shine’.

Danny Brown is older, wiser, and possibly better than ever on new LP uknowhatimsayin¿

Mr Muthaf*ckin’ eXquire - the self-titled debut album out via eXquire's own label, Chocolate Rabbit - is long overdue, arriving over a decade in to the rapper's career and following several strong mixtape and EP releases. The album marks the start of a new phase for eXquire which finds him retaining his trademark potty-mouthed raps whilst introducing a more reflective, thoughtful outlook - Ptichfork says of the album, ""the Brooklyn rapper is back on his own label, back on his own terms, and just as defiant and provocative as ever". The first in a series of new releases, Mr Muthaf*ckin’ eXquire is a wild ride of impressive, defiant, funny and sometimes introspective lyrics, with raw, gritty beats - the album features Wiki, KAST and Iceberg Black, with production from some of eXquire's long time collaborators, CONSTROBUZ, Parallel Thought & Iceberg Black, amongst others.

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!

The Last Poets are widely credited as the godfathers of Hip-Hop. Transcending Toxic Times is the album that fully defines their careers and legacy. Artfully recorded and produced by Jamaaladeen Tacuma (Ornette Coleman), the album intertwines the groove of Black culture with The Last Poets powerful words and cadence. Special Guests Malik B, Ursula Rucker, Tim Motzer, and Wadud Ahmad. This record will finally define the correct blend of poetry, jazz, Hip-Hop, and Soul, with the full expectation that it will be emulated for years to come.
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The 1990s was a rich vein of classic hip-hop, especially on the East Coast, which rendered some of the greatest works from the likes of Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, Mobb Deep, and many others. Frequently lost in the genre's New York-centric history was Boston's burgeoning hip-hop scene during the 1990s, spearheaded by working class Roxbury native Edward Anderson, best known by his stage name Ed O.G Over the course of his career, which has spanned nearly 30 years, Ed O.G has maintained an admirably strong cult following, and has gone on to work with contemporaries like RZA, KRS-One, Masta Ace, Pete Rock, and Common, while touring the world over, and producing numerous solo and collaborative albums. Ed O.G.'s illustrious career debuted in 1991, with the release of what is arguably his best known album, Life Of A Kid In The Ghetto, a collaboration with his crew, billed as Da Bulldogs (which was actually an acronym for “Black United Leaders Living Directly on Grooving Sounds”), though Ed O.G was clearly the main event. An underrated classic in its own right, Life Of A Kid In The Ghetto runs a gamut of sounds ranging from the introspective conscious hip-hop of "Be A Father To Your Child", to the whimsical boasts of "I'm Different", to deeply political fare like the Ace & Quan and Def Jef-featuring "Speak Upon It", plastered across a backdrop of Joe Mansfield-produced sample-heavy soundscapes, which snatched clips from deep cuts of James Brown, Roy Ayers, and The Delfonics, to name just a few. It also managed to generate Billboardcharting singles out of tracks like "Bug-A-Boo", "Be A Father To Your Child", and "I Got To Have It", which would become Ed O.G's signature track, and sample fodder for 2Pac, De La Soul, and DJ Premier. Get On Down now presents Life Of A Kid In The Ghetto, an unheralded rarity of renaissance hip-hop, reissued on vinyl for the first time since 1991. The audio has been remastered from its original tapes, so every bit and piece of Ed O.G's masterpiece is crisp and clear on wax. An uncovered gem of 90s rap well worth a re-listen or first-time discovery, and a sterling representation of Boston hip-hop.

R.A.S. Posse aka "R.iddem A.nd S.oul" are the inovative collaboration of American rapper/underground producer Soul Gee (Chuck D, Das EFX etc...) and Panamanian reggae rapper Bigga Don who founded the group in Brooklyn NYC.
R.A.S. Posse had a very significant role in the movie House Party 3 and the careers of fellow LaFace Records label mates TLC, Ex Managers Steve Stoute and Kid (Kid n Play), Boyz 2 Men, Usher, OutKast, L.A. Reid etc….
This is EP Vol.1 of there previously unreleased Album on a limited green colored 12“ Vinyl.

After 15 years in the game, Termanology is still going strong. His latest release will be his 35th project to date, and it is titled “Bad Decisions”. The album is an ode to his past life and experiences before making a full time career in rap. Boasting 14 tracks filled with powerful production from some of Rap’s greatest producers (Erick Sermon, Statik Selektah, Dame Grease, The Beatnuts & more), any fan of real hip hop would enjoy this piece of work. Veteran MC’s Raekwon and Smif-N-Wessun bring their signature flavor to the project while some of Rap’s hottest new lyricists (Conway, Benny, ANoyd, Millyz & Crimeapple) come through and show why they have recently been given much praise. Term even tries his hand at production on the latter half of the album, producing three songs.

Since receiving critical acclaim for their debut LP Good Luck With That, an album which was praised for the duo’s classic east coast touch, and secured a spot on Bandcamp’s 10 Best New Hip Hop Releases of 2017, Career Crooks (producer Small Professor and rapper Zilla Rocca) are back to prove that no idea is original. The two have kept busy throughout 2017, not only performing alongside Busdriver, Billy Woods, Quelle Chris, Elucid, and B Dolan, and releasing their LP, but also gearing up for their new air tight collection of remixes, titled Thieving As Long As I’m Breathing.

The new single “Crook With a Deal”, is a reworking of the 50 Cent and Mad Rapper classic “How to Rob”, targeting indie rappers like Open Mike Eagle and Run The Jewels. The album also features five in-house remixes from Small Pro and Zilla Rocca, draped in styles inspired by the likes of DITC and the Beastie Boys. Canadian MPC champ FreshKils also makes an appearance and flips the fan favorite “Steve Martin” into a soundtrack for a car chase outside a Chemical Brothers show. Other remix features include DJ Manipulator, Willy, Shane Great, Rolled Gold Beats, and John Morrison.

The twelve track LP moves as fast as a cat with its tail on fire and maintains its own vibe while paying homage to that which has come before it. The group’s primary sound encompasses “…raw ‘90s flows while still maintaining a modern edge.” (Philip Mylnar, Bandcamp.com)

Strictly limited edition vinyl!
Only one copy per customer!
Dope Folks’ 90th release comes from the vaults of The Beatnuts' own PSYCHO LES! Formed in 1988, 2*2*4 (2 BAD 2 BE 4 REAL) consisted of Psycho Les, JMD, Universal and cuts by Rob Swift. 2*2*4 only released one single back in 1988 ("ILL Tempo" b/w "I Don't Play") and that was it... until now!
Psycho Les has gone through his DATS to find the demos that would've made up their full-length album. This 12" features both tracks from their only official release, and 6 previously unreleased tracks! Straight from the DATS of Psycho Les, these are the only existing tracks of the group! Dope Folks did their best to clean up these raw demos to compile an 8-song historic document that kicked off the careers of Psycho Les, and Rob Swift! Limited to 350 copies (50 colored vinyl, 300 standard black) and never to be repressed. This is the BLACK VINYL version.

Since bursting onto the scene in 2012, Brooklyn hip-hop collective Pro Era has sent shockwaves through the culture. Crew leader Joey Bada$$ has become one of rap’s biggest stars, and Pro Era artists like Kirk Knight, Nyck Caution, and CJ Fly have launched their own successful solo careers. Chuck Strangers has been a key member of Pro Era from the start, producing classic Joey Bada$$ tracks like “Daily Routine”, “FromdaTomb$” (which he was also featured on), “Summer Knights”, “My Yout”, “Escape 120”, “Rockabye Baby”, and more. A true double-threat who’s just as skilled on the mic as he is behind the boards, Chuck is poised as the next breakout star from the Era. Now, the talented artist is announcing his highly-anticipated debut solo album, Consumers Park. Set for release on March 16th, the album features guest appearances from Joey Bada$$, Kirk Knight, and Issa Gold (of The Underachievers). Primarily produced by Chuck Strangers himself (with the notable exception of the lead single “Fresh” produced by Alchemist), Consumers Park is sonically masterful, with a heavy emphasis on raw, soulful vibes. This provides the ideal platform for Chuck to showcase his impressive rap skills, with vivid, nostalgic, witty, personal rhymes that perfectly capture the rising star’s ongoing journey from Flatbush to international hip-hop notoriety.

Featuring Pharoahe Monch, M.O.P., Celph Titled, A.G., Locksmith, Ryu and Diabolic. Production by DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Buckwild, Nottz, Stu Bangas, Chumzilla and more.

After developing a loyal cult following which spans over 15 years worth of catalog, seasoned veteran Apathy unleashes his 6th studio full length, which undoubtedly is one of the biggest albums of his career thus far. The Demigodz/Army of the Pharaohs MC maintains a hardcore vibe with surgically-precise writing and has brought along a who's who of legendary hip hop heavyweights to contribute on the project. Conceptually, the album is steeped within the mysteries of Freemasonry, showcasing songs that touch upon subject matter that only a Master Mason could craft. A theme running throughout the album that evokes intrigue with a sneak peak behind the curtain of an ancient fraternity. The concepts also delve in to the metaphysical, philosophical and spiritual -- Dissecting corruption of the government and holding a mirror to the ills of society, without losing the tradition of classic boom bap hip hop.

Planet Asia helped jump-start the West Coast independent hip-hop movement, and has solidified himself as one of the most consistent and respected MCs in the game over his 20+ year career. He dropped his debut EP with producer Fanatik in 1998, and followed up quickly with the singles "Definition of Ill" (Stones Throw) and "Place of Birth" (ABB Records). In 2001, The Source Magazine gave him the ‘First Round Draft Pick’ and ‘Independent Album of the Year’ awards for ‘How the West Was One’, which was recorded with fellow CA rapper Rasco under the group name Cali Agents. This landed him a deal with Interscope Records, where he was signed until 2003 without releasing an album.
Planet Asia was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2002 for his feature on the song "W" by Mystic, and was later signed to Avatar Records, which released his official debut album, ‘The Grand Opening,’ in 2004. It earned him another ‘Independent Album of the Year’ award from The Source. Later, he started his own imprint Gold Chain Music, on which he has churned out multiple projects. He has also collaborated on albums with the likes of DJ Muggs (‘Pain Language’), Evidence (‘The Medicine’) and Madlib (‘Cracks In The Vinyl’), among others, and released songs with artists such as Linkin Park, Bun B, Talib Kweli and Ghostface Killah.
The Fresno MC is fresh off of a strong 2017 which featured well-received collaborative albums with producers DirtyDiggs (‘Dirty Planet’) and Apollo Brown (‘Anchovies’). For 2018, Asia teamed up with Bay Area producer izznyce for this true solo project, sure to be considered the next classic in his vast catalog.
‘The Golden Buddha’ was produced entirely by izznyce (producer for Superstar Quamallah and more) and features AZ, Hus Kingpin, Turbin, Marvelous Mag, Killa Kali, TriState, Xiomara and The Architect. Speaking on the project, Planet Asia says: “This album represents the foundation of what Planet Asia is about and that is ‘balance’. Me and izznyce also took our time with the record, and had a chance to really vibe out and make the type of music we personally like that will stand the test of time!”

Ever since he emerged with "Huzzah" six years ago, Mr. Muthafuckin' eXquire has remained one of the most fascinating lyricists to come out of New York City in years. His career has been a bumpy road, signing with Interscope and then leaving soon after, but his pen has always remained consistent. Now he's back with his first project in almost two years.
To be clear, eXquire is still just as brilliant as he's always been. His raps are tormented and dense with emotion, while his flows are like constellations, hard to track but dazzling to witness. Alchemist, Parallel Thought and Constrobuz are some of the producers on the project, while Meyhem Lauren is the sole feature.

Ed O.G's new album “FreEDOm” couldn't come at a better time in history as we are in an age where it seems like our freedoms are slowly getting taken away with a corrupt dictator in office.

“FreEDOm” has a sound that is reminiscent to one of your favorite Hip-Hop albums with songs that touch every part of your life. Ed O.G's conscious lyrics over banging beats are bound to resonate and inspire. The song "Smoke" features Masta Ace, marking their first collaboration since the critically acclaimed 2009 "Arts & Entertainment" album. “Boom”, Produced by Sir Williams is the first music video from the album that sheds light on gun violence and the affect it has on victims, families and communities. “FreEDOm” is Ed O.G's 15th studio album produced by up and coming producers Torchbars, Kelz With Tha Heat, Sir Williams, Geronimo X, DJ Scienz & more.

If the album wasn't enough, the Digipak CD includes a full-length documentary based on the Ed O.G & Da Bulldogs hit song "I Got To Have it". This ground-breaking documentary is a true artistic masterpiece on how one song can change your life. This is an in-depth look into Edo.G's journey through the music industry being dropped from a major label to finding his way independently. It highlights his life and career from his early teenage years to the present day. Through touring the world and making a positive impact with his music, Ed O.G's continued relevance in Hip Hop is not to be questioned.

The limited edition CD contains the the full-length documentary DVD and the bonus track “Keeps Calling Me” featuring Al Copeland.

"Singing was always a big passion for me..I was always fascinated at all the acrobatic vocal runs some singers do with their voice. To me it's an athletic thing and I definitely see myself as a vocal athlete..and for that deeper understanding of my voice that I now have I have to thank my vocal coach Betty Lane. She literally helped me to push out the voice that had been waiting there for years, ready to come out, like "John use me, I'm your voice" and It was always a goal of mine to make a project that showcases my singing. I see myself as a singer songwriter first, I just grew up in the generation of rap, so the 2 styles just fused together naturally. I started writing poems around 8 or 9 years old, then songs, and then raps. I eventually put it all together…22 years later...the journey to my heart , through all the ups and downs of my career trying to discover my voice, who I am, all my travels around the globe. It all leads back to Home, in the most literal sense. The house I’m sitting in front of on the video for "Home" is the house my parents brought me home to as a baby. So for me it’s like going back to the original source, the original purpose. That purpose for me is to sing. That's why this album is so special for me...and Calvin made the perfect soundtrack for me to take you on a soulful stroll through my hometown, Detroit Michigan aka Motown. Hope you enjoy! As Dank would say.."Bless up!!!!!!!!""

Illa J

Prince Paul hit Chopped Herring up to release this dope early 90's project!!

The first incarnation of the group was formed around 1989 in Amityville, Long Island, New York, although the family grew up in Long Island. The family of four brothers (Anthony, Richard, Joel, and Edward) and one sister (Dawne), of which Anthony (Poetic) was the eldest, were born to Trinidadian parents who moved from Trinidad and Tobago in 1971, making their first residence in Queens, New York for a short time, then moving to Long Island. John Berkeley (a pastor and a local businessman) and Ela Berkeley (a homemaker, cook-nutritionist, and teacher) were both singers and artistic in general, and they encouraged artistic expression in their five children. The family was well-rounded musically, singing gospel and R&B up to their early teens all around New York, other states, and Canada as "The Berkeley Singers". Anthony (Poetic), Dawne, and Joel (Brainstorm) sang, accompanied by Richard on the drums and Eddie (E-Sharp) on the piano or keyboard.

Poetic began rhyming in his early teens in Wyandanch, and was known by many names and building a name for himself as a lyrical battle MC. He changed his name to Poetic around 1985, and in 1986 he formed the crew known as Too Poetic, who in 1988-89 released a modestly popular single called: “God Made Me Funky/Poetical Terror”, under the DNA/Tommy Boy Music imprint. The group’s relationship with Tommy Boy Records eventually panned out for various reasons, scrapping the album and making Poetic very displeased, an early casualty of the politics of the music business.

While Poetic was just beginning his formal hip hop career in 1987–89, Brainstorm was attending college at the State University of New York at Farmingdale, Long Island, where he was the roommate of Brooklyn’s own Super DJ Richie Rich (who had been in Third Base, Clark Kent’s Supermen, and the movie Juice). The university was host to many hip hop artists as visitors for parties and to do shows like Rakim, EPMD, Producer-Super DJ Clark Kent, and Biz Markie.

After Brainstorm finished his college run in 1989, he took time to learn many aspects of the music business, but in 1989 he and Poetic mutually decided to pair up with a hardcore lyrical edge, original word play, and acute metaphors, after many collaborations between them since 1985. Thus, Da Bruthas G.R.Y.M. was born shortly after Too Poetic’s deal with DNA/Tommy Boy had soured. The energy and high chemistry between these true by-blood brothers at the time was, simply put, natural.

In the first Bruthas G.R.Y.M. era (c. 1989–1992), the brothers Poetic (Brother One) and Brainstorm (Brother Two) garnered much respect on the underground hip hop scene of New York Their first official demo featured the underground bangers like “Bruthas G.R.Y.M.”, “Circle-Circle-Dot-Dot”, the politically charged “Popcorn” and “Livin’ In Hell (Had To Survive)”. The demo featured production mastering by Nate "NATO" Tinsley, their in-house producer Semi-Automatic (Pedro Sims, Mr. Semi, Gravediggaz), and the brothers themselves. After blazing underground radio and live shows around New York City, they were listed in The Source magazine as the best unsigned rap group of 1989. The crew was then managed by longtime friend Jack Pope (Jack Sprat, Starving Artists Entertainment), who later became the road manager of the Gravediggaz.

These cassette tape “dubs” floated around the New York streets in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and their demo eventually made their way to the seasoned musical ear of fellow Amityvillain Prince Paul (Stetsasonic, De La Soul, Gravediggaz) from his association with the local Long Island artists who had met the brothers and saw their raw talent. In 1990 Prince Paul decided to fund and executive produce further demos, finding various other known and up-and-coming producers for the unnamed project, as well as being the tentative DJ for the group.

Then the unfortunate happened – being disenfranchised by the politics and games of the music business and life in general, Brainstorm just quit altogether for “personal enlightenment”, before any formal deal could solidify. Poetic understood about Brainstorm’s personal path at that stage in his life, but was silently devastated because they were so close to sealing a major record deal that would have propelled them further into Hip Hop history.

Their original demo, even today, is still one of Prince Paul’s favorites. It was not until 1992 that Poetic, after Brainstorm quit in 1991, that it is said that Poetic “fell on hard times”, including a short period of homelessness.

Brainstorm would continue to write for leisure and therapeutic reasoning, but never to seriously pursue a music career, moving to Brooklyn New York and later down south to various states; in fact, Brainstorm was so “finished with Hip Hop” that he gave Poetic all of his original rhyme books to use at his own discretion – some lyrics ending up on Gravediggaz projects.

Styles of Beyond MC and Demigodz frontman, Ryu, unleashes his long-awaited debut solo album "Tanks For The Memories". From his early years ruling the Los Angeles radio and cypher scenes, to breaking necks and banging heads with Styles of Beyond via their critically acclaimed seminal debut album "2000 Fold" and their sophomore follow-up "Megadef", through to his work with Mike Shinoda in Fort Minor on their Jay-Z overseen “Rising Tied’ album. Experiencing both mainstream and independent, underground successes, Ryan ‘Ryu’ Maginn states “'Tanks For The Memories' is a metaphor for the battles I've fought throughout my career in the music business. That would include the bad and the good. You win some, but in my case I've lost a lot as well. In the end, I believe I'll win the war.” The album is entirely produced by Divine Styler, except for the last track which is produced by Apathy. Reuniting with Divine Styler on production was a no-brainer for the 'San Fernando Valley Rambo' as he explains “Divine Styler was instrumental in the development of the Styles of Beyond sound. So it was a very natural process when working together on this album." The album features Everlast, Divine Styler, Celph Titled, Bishop Lamont, Tak, Gravity Christ and Jams.

feat.Chino XL, Crooked I, RasKass, Psycho Realm, Diabolic ... produced byGreen Lantern, Southpaw, Buckwild, Scram Jones ... expect to hear Immortal Technique'sstriking lyrics on an even more street influenced production!

Slaine's upcoming studio album "The King Of Everything Else", is scheduled for an August 19th release date through Suburban Noize. The album is set to feature collaborations with heavyweights Tech N9ne, Madchild, Bishop Lamont, Vinnie Paz, Reks and Termanology, and La Coka Nostra brethren ILL BILL. The album artwork for "The King Of Everything Else", was designed by legendary hip-hop artist Skam2, who has worked with everyone from Eminem, A Tribe Called Quest, D-12, Dizzy Wright, and ILL BILL, to rock group's like Linkin Park.

"The songs on this new album are extremely visual and I felt like the album cover needed to be an accompanying piece. I met Skam2 through Ill Bill a while back and had always dug his work," said Slaine. "I had an idea of what I wanted to do with the cover conceptually and thought he would be the perfect artist to execute it. He took the idea and ran with it. I love the results."

Throughout his musical career as a solo artist, or as a member of hip-hop supergroup La Coka Nostra, Slaine has always made his songs with a gritty, lyrical honesty. His latest autobiographical gorilla, "The King of Everything Else", is a cutting and revealing tell-all. If Behind The Music or E! True Hollywood Story dug this deep into an artist's psyche, they'd have to resurrect Kubrick to subdue all the madness. Slaine, meanwhile, navigates the chaos with impressive nihilistic gusto.

The PUTS' 9th studio album is another selfmade stunner via Piecelock 70!

LA based People Under The Stairs, Double K (Michael Turner) and Thes One (Christopher Portugal) are the most successful fully independent hip-hop
duo in the history of Hip-Hop. Since their initial release in 1998, People Under The Stairs, or “The P” as they are referred to by their fans, have performed over a thousand sold out shows, festivals and world tours spanning 6 continents and 40 countries. With a pioneering DIY ethic, they have self produced 8 full-length LPs in addition to countless singles and side projects. The musical sensibility punctuating their unique brand of hip-hop has earned them the title “The Steely Dan of Rap Music” as well as consistent critical acclaim and numerous appearances on the Billboard Charts. Their unique career includes an appearance on The Simpson’s 20th Anniversary Special, a John Peele Session at Abbey Road, and groundbreaking performances at festivals such as Glastonbury, Coachella and Bonaroo, the last of which was noted by SPIN magazine as “Simply the best performance of Friday... Period”. After finishing their ambitious 8th Studio album Highlighter, The P completed sold out tours with Mac Miller and Girl Talk before returning to the studio to work on their 9th album, 12 Step Program!

Produced entirely by Harry Fraud (who produced French Montana's "Shot Caller"), Smoke DZA's upcoming LP will feature appearances from the likes of Action Bronson, Domo Genesis, and his Jet Life labelmate Curren$y, among others. Harlem's own Smoke DZA has seen his career skyrocket lately, as acclaimed projects like George Kush Da Button and Rolling Stoned have introduced the public to Smoke's irresitible laid-back flow. DZA has also been collaborating with a who's who of young hip-hop stars (Asher Roth, A$AP Rocky, Big K.R.I.T., Kendrick Lamar, Cory Gunz, Mickey Factz, Dom Kennedy, and more), firmly establishing himself as a leader of the next generation of rhyme spitters. The proud stoner is now joining forces with High Times for Rugby Thompson, a brand new album produced entirely by Harry Fraud. With Fraud's pounding drums providing the backdrop and appearances from Action Bronson, Curren$y, Sean Price, Schoolboy Q, and Domo Genesis of Odd Future, Rugby Thompson is among DZA's most impressive work to date.

Produced entirely by Harry Fraud (who produced French Montana's "Shot Caller"), Smoke DZA's upcoming LP will feature appearances from the likes of Action Bronson, Domo Genesis, and his Jet Life labelmate Curren$y, among others. Harlem's own Smoke DZA has seen his career skyrocket lately, as acclaimed projects like George Kush Da Button and Rolling Stoned have introduced the public to Smoke's irresitible laid-back flow. DZA has also been collaborating with a who's who of young hip-hop stars (Asher Roth, A$AP Rocky, Big K.R.I.T., Kendrick Lamar, Cory Gunz, Mickey Factz, Dom Kennedy, and more), firmly establishing himself as a leader of the next generation of rhyme spitters. The proud stoner is now joining forces with High Times for Rugby Thompson, a brand new album produced entirely by Harry Fraud. With Fraud's pounding drums providing the backdrop and appearances from Action Bronson, Curren$y, Sean Price, Schoolboy Q, and Domo Genesis of Odd Future, Rugby Thompson is among DZA's most impressive work to date. Also available: Substance Abuse, the hit mixatpe now re-mastered for retail with six bonus tracks (features Devin The Dude, Nipsey Hussle, Curren$y, Cory Gunz, Curtains, and more).

The diabolical rhyme dynamics of Teknical Developments lyrics paired with beats cloaked in a blue cheese fog of THTC from Hey!zeus dwell and celebrate in the time of A.M. A time which reveals the full existence of the human cypher in its entirety, From the crooked corrupt cloaked by its shadows to the optimism of dreams and a new days break.
TO.AM is a dedication to the time
FREE.AM is an experiment in the freedoms of the infant hours
Two separate organism from the same body of concept naturally evolved from late night studio sessions all past the hour of midnight.

———————————
All Tracks Produced By Hey!zeus
All Tracks Recorded & Mixed At RDL Studios by Hey!zeus
All Tracks Mastered By Mr Cooper
Artwork & orginal paintings by Gordon of PMC/BBC.

LIMITED edition: ONLY 400 copies, worldwide!!

The diabolical rhyme dynamics of Teknical Developments lyrics paired with beats cloaked in a blue cheese fog of THTC from Hey!zeus dwell and celebrate in the time of A.M. A time which reveals the full existence of the human cypher in its entirety, From the crooked corrupt cloaked by its shadows to the optimism of dreams and a new days break.
TO.AM is a dedication to the time
FREE.AM is an experiment in the freedoms of the infant hours
Two separate organism from the same body of concept naturally evolved from late night studio sessions all past the hour of midnight.

———————————
All Tracks Produced By Hey!zeus
All Tracks Recorded & Mixed At RDL Studios by Hey!zeus
All Tracks Mastered By Mr Cooper
Artwork & orginal paintings by Gordon of PMC/BBC.

LIMITED edition: ONLY 250 copies, worldwide!!

Embracing his career path as an emcee/entertainer, Crimapple returns with his latest solo effort, El Cantante, which serves as an ode to Hector Lavoe and The Fania Era of salsa music's profound storytelling.

Although devoid of any guest appearances, Crime is joined by a supporting cast of praise-worthy producers throughout the project whom include Bohemia Lynch (Westside Gunn), Michaelangelo (Avenue, Vel the Wonder) as well as his frequent collaborator, Buck Dudley, among others. And while there’s tracks that borrow aesthetics akin to latin music—such as the syncopated rhythm patterns on “Tuesday,” or the looping pan flute heard on “Out the Way”—you’ll still find the archetypal soundscapes that have defined Crime’s discography. These include the soulful/zone-inducing loops on tracks like the album opener, “My Song,” as well as “Together,” “Encore,” and “Precious.” And then there’s the chest-pounding bangers like “Cosos,” where Crime lyrically remains in his bag with unrelenting, braggadocious rhymes: “You cheesecake, rappers know I get on this shit and eat great / Get better at any take and drop on anyone’s release date”

All in all, El Cantante is a self realization of sorts CrimeAPPLE shares his current life perspectives and touches on what it’s like to be considered a hip-hop legend by many, while also reflecting on the path that brought him to this point in his career.

By the time his 2008 solo debut "The Preface" was released, Elzhi was already recognized as one of hip-hop’s most gifted lyricists. The Detroit emcee was still a member of Slum Village at the time, having replaced hip-hop icon J Dilla in the legendary group earlier that decade. "The Preface" showcases Elzhi’s undeniable talent and impressive creative flair, foreshadowing the exciting solo career that would follow. With a young Black Milk supplying pounding, drum-heavy production on 13 of the album's 16 tracks, Elzhi’s dense verses electrify the mic, announcing the arrival of a truly special artist. Whether riffing on color-themed wordplay, playing a lyrical game of “fill in the blank”, taking listeners on a dream logic adventure, telling his personal story, or simply showing off his scorching rhyme skills, Elzhi's flawless flows animate the highly conceptual collection. A thoroughly Detroit affair, "The Preface" features appearances by Motown rap gods like Royce Da 5’9”, Danny Brown, Guilty Simpson, Phat Kat, T3 of Slum Village, and more. After years of scarcity, the album is finally receiving a proper reissue on CD and vinyl.

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

LA-based Japanese DJ/beatmaker Kapsoul, boasting over 20 years of career, announces the release of his first album "ascent"!

Known in Japan for his collaboration with Japanese rapper Senninso ("GaryPayton"), Kapsoul has garnered a reputation among hardcore hip-hop fans, and many have been eagerly anticipating this debut release. The album features a diverse lineup of artists, including NY rapper AA Rashid, a regular contributor to Westside Gunn's projects, LA underground favorite BLU, Declaime (Dudley Perkins) and Georgia Anne Muldrow, known for their releases on Stones Throw, and Kapsoul's own group Black HairImperial, among others. Additionally, instrumental tracks featuring jazz musicians with close ties to Kapsoul are also included, resulting in a project with musicality that transcends the boundaries of hip-hop.

Joell Ortiz & Kxng Crooked met the year they both won XXL's coveted Freshmen of the Year Award. The two's careers are as legendary as any in the rap game. Joell Ortiz started by signing to Dr. Dre's Aftermath label, then moving to Shady records as part of the Super group Slaughterhouse with Joe Budden, Royce Da 5'9 and Kxng Crooked. Add to that a fresh feature on Eminem's newest album "Music To Be Murdered By." Meanwhile, Kxng Crooked was signed to Virgin Records at just 17 before joining Death Row Records. He's had a flourishing solo career including collaborations along the way with TechN9ne, 2Pac, Benny The Butcher, Raekwon, Akon, Ray J and more. The West Coast LBC representer Kxng Crooked and Brooklyn's Joell Ortiz have finally come together for the the joint project "H.A.R.D." on Mello Music Group. Album produced by Heatmakerz, Erick Sermon, Boogeyman, Illmind, Apollo Brown, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League This special edition vinyl features the 24 for '24 Artist Series painting by KipDaFog.

Seafood Sam is a futuristic artifact. If that description might sound confusing at first, it matches the eclectic dualities found in true originals. With his effortless cool and timeless style, the North Long Beach native defies convention and exact comparison. He's a virtuosic rapper, a stop-you-in-your tracks singer, and a symphonic producer. Welcome to the lavish life of a laid-back transcontinental man of mystery, rolling in old school Cadillacs, eating caviar with a blade in his pocket, and making plays in vintage Pelle Pelle gear. A blaxploitation icon for the Instagram age, blessed with the bars of a `90s legend and 23rd century swagger. Seafood Sam is a true hero of modernity. On his full-length album debut for up-and-coming label drink sum wtr (Kari Faux, Deem Spencer, Aja Monet) debut, Standing on Giant Shoulders, Sam splits the difference between Snoop Dogg and D' Angelo, Curren$y and David Ruffin. The songs reveal a forward-thinking sensibility rooted in ancestral soul. He creates spiritual hymns for the streets that tap into universal ideals and irrepressible groove. In an era plagued by short-term thinking, his ambitions reveal a crate-digging depth of music history and a meticulous ear for detail. The giant shoulders in the album's title refer to James Brown, Bobby Brown, and Miles Davis - the holy trinity who inspired Sam's process. From the Godfather of Soul, Sam took a perfectionist's rigor and focus. The example of Bobby Brown lent an unshakeable confidence and self-belief. While the constant artistic left turns of the trumpeter that birthed Ccool offered an aspirational archetype. The story starts in the glory days of Long Beach hip-hop. As a young child, the G-Funk era soundtracked rides in Sam's father's car. Some of his earliest memories are trying to memorize Snoop's verse on "Nuthin' But a "G" Thang." Beyond gangsta rap, the LBC has historically doubled as a capital of lowrider soul and carwash oldies. At any intersection, you could hear Dogg Food or Brenton Wood, Warren G or Barbara Lynn. This too was absorbed via osmosis. It also just so happened that the art of performance was always in Sam's blood. So at family functions, he and his sister supplied entertainment by singing karaoke renditions of The Isley Brothers. While his Harlem Shake remains a thing of local lore. Long Beach is a culturally diverse mecca of skate parks and gang life, street fashion and tricky dance moves. This is the place that raised Sam on a diet of Wu-Tang and Nelly Furtado, Lil Bow Wow and Allen Iverson. He was the middle ground between his two older brothers: one who gangbanged, the other who graduated with a master's degree from UC-Santa Barbara. But it wasn't until the end of high school that Sam started to take rap seriously. Alongside long-time collaborators like Huey Briss and Reaper Mook, Sam's name began to make waves on the northside of the city, but he was partially distracted by a modeling career that paid the bills and took him all to way to walk in Paris' fashion week. The first turning point arrived with 2018's "Ramsey," a self-produced, slick-talk anthem with over 10,000,000 streams across all platforms. With each subsequent release, Sam showcased his peerless consistency, building buzz both online and in the city streets. Spin hailed his "smooth and unhurried cadences and understated lyricism_ that sounds like nothing else in Long Beach." Clash raved about Sam's "evolution as an artist, cruising through nostalgic production with slick, witty rhymes." The culmination arrives with Standing on Giant Shoulders. It's the evidence of a master, a young sensei in the model of Quincy Jones. All rhymes, singing, production, and arrangements were handled by Sam - with an assist from his close Long Beach kinsman Tom Kendall from the group Soular System. It's hard-edged and lyrical enough for disciples of Larry June and Roc Marciano, but orchestral and melodic enough for fans of Anderson .Paak and H.E.R.

Seafood Sam is a futuristic artifact. If that description might sound confusing at first, it matches the eclectic dualities found in true originals. With his effortless cool and timeless style, the North Long Beach native defies convention and exact comparison. He's a virtuosic rapper, a stop-you-in-your tracks singer, and a symphonic producer. Welcome to the lavish life of a laid-back transcontinental man of mystery, rolling in old school Cadillacs, eating caviar with a blade in his pocket, and making plays in vintage Pelle Pelle gear. A blaxploitation icon for the Instagram age, blessed with the bars of a `90s legend and 23rd century swagger. Seafood Sam is a true hero of modernity. On his full-length album debut for up-and-coming label drink sum wtr (Kari Faux, Deem Spencer, Aja Monet) debut, Standing on Giant Shoulders, Sam splits the difference between Snoop Dogg and D' Angelo, Curren$y and David Ruffin. The songs reveal a forward-thinking sensibility rooted in ancestral soul. He creates spiritual hymns for the streets that tap into universal ideals and irrepressible groove. In an era plagued by short-term thinking, his ambitions reveal a crate-digging depth of music history and a meticulous ear for detail. The giant shoulders in the album's title refer to James Brown, Bobby Brown, and Miles Davis - the holy trinity who inspired Sam's process. From the Godfather of Soul, Sam took a perfectionist's rigor and focus. The example of Bobby Brown lent an unshakeable confidence and self-belief. While the constant artistic left turns of the trumpeter that birthed Ccool offered an aspirational archetype. The story starts in the glory days of Long Beach hip-hop. As a young child, the G-Funk era soundtracked rides in Sam's father's car. Some of his earliest memories are trying to memorize Snoop's verse on "Nuthin' But a "G" Thang." Beyond gangsta rap, the LBC has historically doubled as a capital of lowrider soul and carwash oldies. At any intersection, you could hear Dogg Food or Brenton Wood, Warren G or Barbara Lynn. This too was absorbed via osmosis. It also just so happened that the art of performance was always in Sam's blood. So at family functions, he and his sister supplied entertainment by singing karaoke renditions of The Isley Brothers. While his Harlem Shake remains a thing of local lore. Long Beach is a culturally diverse mecca of skate parks and gang life, street fashion and tricky dance moves. This is the place that raised Sam on a diet of Wu-Tang and Nelly Furtado, Lil Bow Wow and Allen Iverson. He was the middle ground between his two older brothers: one who gangbanged, the other who graduated with a master's degree from UC-Santa Barbara. But it wasn't until the end of high school that Sam started to take rap seriously. Alongside long-time collaborators like Huey Briss and Reaper Mook, Sam's name began to make waves on the northside of the city, but he was partially distracted by a modeling career that paid the bills and took him all to way to walk in Paris' fashion week. The first turning point arrived with 2018's "Ramsey," a self-produced, slick-talk anthem with over 10,000,000 streams across all platforms. With each subsequent release, Sam showcased his peerless consistency, building buzz both online and in the city streets. Spin hailed his "smooth and unhurried cadences and understated lyricism_ that sounds like nothing else in Long Beach." Clash raved about Sam's "evolution as an artist, cruising through nostalgic production with slick, witty rhymes." The culmination arrives with Standing on Giant Shoulders. It's the evidence of a master, a young sensei in the model of Quincy Jones. All rhymes, singing, production, and arrangements were handled by Sam - with an assist from his close Long Beach kinsman Tom Kendall from the group Soular System. It's hard-edged and lyrical enough for disciples of Larry June and Roc Marciano, but orchestral and melodic enough for fans of Anderson .Paak and H.E.R.

The third volume in the series of releases chronicling the early career of Mac Dre. Includes previously unreleased tracks.

Known for weaving together complex rhymes with style, Elzhi has been rapping circles around the competition for more than two decades. After years as a member of iconic group Slum Village, Elzhi’s impressive solo career has included projects produced by acclaimed artists like Black Milk, Georgia Anne Muldrow, Khrysis, and Will Sessions. Now, the Detroit emcee is linking with California beat maestro Oh No for the new collaborative album Heavy Vibrato. A multitalented underground hip-hop luminary, Oh No has built a formidable resume behind the boards, crafting tracks for Mos Def, Freddie Gibbs, MF Doom, Action Bronson, Talib Kweli, Ab-Soul, Danny Brown, and more. Heavy Vibrato is a thrilling showcase for Elzhi’s lyrical wizardry and cinematic storytelling, as Oh No breathes new life into a compelling tapestry of jazz samples, producing the entire collection. “The only thing you need to absorb this experience is an open mind,” says Elzhi. With guest appearances by Blu and Guilty Simpson, Heavy Vibrato taps into an undeniable frequency.

Both hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, Shurlock launched his production career in 1990, Byron career began in 2007. Byron began collaborating with well-known Parisian producer Onra on an EP entitled "The Big Payback." That collaboration led to numerous releases on independent labels like Rush Hour, Warp (with Flying Lotus), HHV, Circulations, Reebok Classics A Journey into Future, Real Soon, and Giant Step Records. Shurlock career began with super group Arrested Development and co-founder “Tim Headliner Barnwell, and then he moved on to work as a ghost producer for Manuel Seal. His catalog of songs and remixes for artist/groups where for artist Mista, Xscape, the Temptations, Juliet Arrington, DJ Nabbs, Ghost Town DJs, and many more.Together these 2 eclectic producers have come together to form a new experience in Hip Hop. From the classic styles of sampling and chopping beats, that was used in Egyptology, Time, and Play That Back. To the new generation of beat making that encompass House, Jazz, Funk, and Soul, used in songs like Take It Back (Fool), I Miss Love (Love), and Love Instrumental (Tribe).This pairing has been years in the making, with both preparing in their own lanes and perfecting their craft. They’ve been told their hold life that you’re from Birmingham and you can’t make it in this world of music. Well this project is for those that stop dreaming, and believed that Shurlock, and Byron would never make it the world of music. Because they have had to make it without support or help, they obviously named this Album “Us Against the World”.

serpentwithfeet, the Baltimore-born singer and songwriter, is a versatile talent who moves naturally from chapter to chapter in his career. His third album, Grip, is based on the dance floor of black gay clubs and is about the intimate moments that happen there and after, no matter the venue. It explores the small moments of physical touch and how they come about. Whether it's a grip around the waist or the face, serpentwithfeet manages to explore all angles. Grip and the black gay club have an interesting relationship: the club is public; the dance floor is obviously a place where people look at and observe each other. At the same time, the black gay club is a safe communal space, it's "for us" and in that sense very private, very intimate. These clubs offered him a different atmosphere, a different comfort and a different sense of welcome that encouraged him in a new way. From start to finish, Grip sonically relives the highs and lows of not only a club night, but also a romance. "Damn Gloves (ft. Ty Dolla $ign and Yanga YaYa)" captures the adrenaline rush of a nighttime climax with a thumping bass embedded in a dance production that mimics the speed of a heartbeat as intimacy boils up between two lovers. "Spades" uses a sweet, guitar-driven melody to create a tender moment, as a slow dance would. "Lucky Me" is sweet and honest, without anything to distract from the actual moment. His voice, a glistening guitar melody and enchanting synths serve as the driving force to foster a new romance. It's a work that emphasises the moments closest to the heart. Over the course of his seven-year career, he has proven his versatility through R&B music that is both sombre, spiritual and joyful. serpentwithfeet continues to push the boundaries of his art.

As one of hip hop’s premier auteurs, Danny Brown has been no stranger to conscious themes and current affairs; much of his discography features blisteringly honest verses set to explosive productions. But on his sixth album Quaranta, Danny Brown shows a new side: with his forlorn face half obscured by the shadows of his past, he delivers a raw, autobiographical clarity that we haven’t seen before.

Part of this comes with age. “Quaranta” means “forty” in Italian, marking pivotal moments and epiphanies in the years since his breakout record XXX. It’s also where the word “quarantine” originates, not only referring to the decade defining lockdowns the album was written in, but to a deep sense of isolation and self reflection that colours Danny’s storytelling. As the album’s very first line says, “This rap shit done saved my life and fucked it up at the same time”: there’s no begging for pity here, rather Danny is telling all, with ‘Maggot Brain’-esque shreds framing his bare, wisened voice.

Danny’s vanguard status as an artist allows him to school the youngins of the rap game while unpacking his own downfalls. In that way, Quaranta becomes a case study of the rapper, reckoning with the realities of his dream career. ‘Y.B.P.’ is as much an admonishment of destitute living situations as it is a celebration of Detroit’s ingenuity, leading into an abstract thesis on gentrification in ‘Jenn’s Terrific Vacation’, where musical structures are knocked down and rebuilt just as quickly as the architectural ones are, while freezing tones depict stagnation in the midst of immense change.

King of Memphis is the debut studio album from Young Dolph. The self-proclaimed “King of Memphis” and Paper Route Empire founder defined the independent hustle and set the industry and streets ablaze throughout his career. The album features the massive single, “Get Paid,” and standout hits such as “Fuck It,” & “Royalty.” Free of any features, King of Memphis puts the full spotlight on Dolph and features production from heavyweight producers such as Mike Will Made It, Tm88, Zaytoven, Nard & B, and Drumma Boy, among others. While his life was ultimately cut short, the influence and impact of Dolph’s legacy will live on forever. Long Live Dolph.

Chron "Hell Razah” Smith was a member of Wu-Tang Clan affiliate group Sunz of Man, who scored a gold album with their debut The Last Shall Be First. Sometimes known as Heaven Razah, his solo career is highlighted the critically-acclaimed album, Renaissance Child, which found him collaborating with MF Doom, Talib Kweli, Tragedy Khadafi and more. Razah continues to issue a steady stream of albums and guest features, and leads his online community, the Ghetto Government.

The last Wu-Tang Clan member to launch a solo career, Masta Killa had fans asking when his album was dropping for more than a decade. His emphatic response was No Said Date, an expertly crafted collection that proved to be worth the wait. Killa's seminal 2004 debut heralded another unique voice emanating from hip-hop’s favorite 9-headed monster, just as iconic releases like Liquid Swords, Only Built For Cuban Linx, Ironman, and Tical, had done years earlier. Now remembered as a classic, No Said Date remains an impressive contribution to the Wu-Tang legacy: dusty, dissonant soul loops, razor-sharp lyrics, and the unmistakably sinister quality embodied by the Wu's best material. A true family affair, the album features appearances by every single member of Wu-Tang Clan, as well as vintage production from the likes of RZA, Mathematics, and True Master. Long out of print, No Said Date is now available on CD and limited-edition vinyl for the first time in years.

Lyrically gifted, socially aware, and politically insightful, Talib Kweli is one of the most influential hip-hop artists of the last 25 years. His early collaborative albums with Mos Def and Hi-Tek were among the most important releases in the genesis of modern rap, forging a future for thought-provoking lyricism and raw soundscapes at a moment when mass commercialization threatened the soul of the genre. Now more than two decades into a thrilling solo career, Kweli has evolved creatively while maintaining his artistic integrity, working with top talent across the musical spectrum in the process. Known for classic collaborative albums with artists like J Dilla, MF Doom, and Freddie Gibbs, widely celebrated producer Madlib is a sampling savant who has crafted beats for the likes of Erykah Badu, Anderson .Paak, Tyler The Creator, Logic, De La Soul, and many more. After releasing a groundbreaking collaborative project back in 2006, Madlib and Talib Kweli are reuniting for the highly-anticipated follow-up Liberation 2. Expansive in concept, the album is a vivid exploration of revolution, love, pan-Africanism, music, spirituality, and more, with Madlib’s jazz-inflected instrumentals providing the perfect soundtrack. “The materialism and debauchery that is stereotypically associated with hip hop has lost some of its luster,” Kweli explains. ìNever has there been a better time for such honest, message driven music that pays tribute to the sounds that came before us.” A global call for unity through space and time, Liberation 2 features appearances by Q-Tip, Westside Gunn, Roc Marciano, Roy Ayers, Goapele, Wildchild, Pink Siifu, and more, plus a posthumous verse by Mac Miller. Not on traditional digital outlets, the album is now available in physical form for the first time ever.

Nym Lo is the epitome of New York hip hop. Raised by the streets of New York, Nym Lo has been around long enough to see the city change. Nymlo new record with Static Selektah is a guaranteed promise there is some music from the new Hip-hop genres that is true to the culture . When asked what New York means to him and his sound he stated, "New York is the epicenter of everything. Then more specifically, Harlem is the center of that. I'm heavily influenced by it. My look, my talk, my music, everything. My whole lifestyle." We went to go visit his new billboard up on 125th St. and we can't go five minutes without someone coming to say hello. He gets his name from his fashion sense. Always rocking Ralph Lauren Polo head to toe. If you ever see Nymlo, chances are 183rd isn't far away. Friends for over 10 years, the duo has made countless classic records. In October 2019 they dropped their collab EP High Horse, and now they're back for the second installment, High Horse 2! High Horse 2 sounds like new age Harlem and success. The project perfectly showcases 183rd and Nymlo's energy and chemistry. 183rd's old school samples with boom bap drums backing Nym Lo's silky smooth witty bars. On High Horse 2, Nym makes you feel like you're with him walking through the streets of Harlem, counting money, reflecting on career growth and change. The album is accompanied by high caliber features from frequent collaborators Benny The Butcher, Smoke Dza, Jay Worthy and OT The Real. We conducted this interview at Ruff Ryder's Powerhouse studio, the same place where DMX, Jadakiss, Styles P, and more legendary rappers recorded. Nymlo also named DMX as a figure that he's looked up to and one of his favorite rappers since he was a child. Go stream High Horse 2 and make sure you keep a look out for more new music from Nym Lo.

In celebration of its 10th anniversary, Rhymesayers created this limited edition 3xLP vinyl package that includes a gatefold jacket with revised art layouts, printed sleeves, a 4-panel insert with full album lyrics, two cream & black marble-colored vinyl, and a UV printed ultra-clear bonus disc vinyl with four exclusive bonus tracks! Whether you're a vinyl enthusiast or simply appreciate great lyricism, this album is a must for any collection. Initially released in 2012, Aesop Rock's sixth studio album Skelethon marked a significant moment in the rapper's career. It had been 5 years since his previous effort None Shall Pass was released, and his former label had since been shuttered. As a result, Skelethon became his first solo release on Rhymesayers Entertainment. Coincidentally, it was also his first album that was entirely self produced. The album's title, a portmanteau of "skeleton" and "telethon," was a metaphor for what felt like a long period of many adversities for Aesop. Throughout the album's 15 tracks, he meticulously exhumes and examines these many skeletons in detail, exploring everything from death to distrust, insecurity and isolation, with moments of humor and hope scattered throughout as well. Some of the many standout tracks from the release include "Zero Dark Thirty," a rapid-fire exploration of displeasure over dizzying drums, "zzz Top," an impressive ode to youthful expression, and "Cycles to Gehenna," with its haunting production and imaginative musings. Upon release, Skelethon was praised for its intricate storytelling that expertly balanced abstract imagery with concrete details, and its immersive production incorporating sample-based beats with dusty pianos, distorted guitars, and psychedelic synths. To this day, the album remains a fan favorite and a critical darling, praised for its poignant introspection and razor-sharp wordplay.

Paper Route Frank is the first posthumous studio album from legendary Memphis, TN figurehead, rapper and mogul, Young Dolph. Gone from us way too soon, the album serves as a testament to the larger than life person and leader that Dolph was, illustrated in tracks such as “Hall of Fame,” “Get Away,” & “Love For The Streets.” At 13 tracks, the album features appearances from PRE labelmates Key Glock, Big Moochie Grape & Snupe Bandz, and taps heavyweight guests in 2 Chainz & longtime collaborator Gucci Mane, who in many ways helped provide the blueprint for Dolph’s own illustrious career. A truly independent foundation in the rap game and unquestionably one of one individual, we may never see another artist like Young Dolph. Long Live Dolph Forever.

Following up on the classic 2019 LP "Kiss Da Converse", Clever 1 now takes the Role of himself as Agent40oz7, a hitman for hire with a golden drunken touch. On this mission he's paired with the none other than Cognac Kingz Import Specialist Giallo Point(G) as his Intel & weapons reinforcement Tech. Together they're gearing up to hit the streets with a brand new action packed audio thriller! A "StashBox Office Hit" is what the critics are saying...

From Imported Clothing Smuggling, Casino Crashing, SafeHouse Heisting & adventurous outdoor-sportsman leisurely mic massacres. On this new opus they craftily pull off a myriad of suspenseful crime capers and high flying adventures keeping everyone from the cops to the crooks to the casual observers on their toes for the duration.

As Hired Professionals, Any Mission is Possible when Clever1 has Gunz, Knivez and Nunchuckz from Giallo Point.

Limited edition of 100 copies on cassette.

Greer's debut "Ill Visions" originally dropped via Wildlife Records in 1998 in very limited amounts on CD, cassette and a 12" single accompanying the album. It soon became an insider tip amongst heads worldwide, but it never saw a full vinyl release until now.

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

Limited edition of 300 copies on 2LP on black vinyl - only 2 per customer.

Greer's debut "Ill Visions" originally dropped via Wildlife Records in 1998 in very limited amounts on CD, cassette and a 12" single accompanying the album. It soon became an insider tip amongst heads worldwide, but it never saw a full vinyl release until now.

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