US Rap Classics 262 Items

Indie Exclusive Black Vinyl Edition.

Few leftovers of the black "Bush Babees - Gravity" tee bundled with the regular 2LP edition that comes with printed innersleeves instead of gatefold and without the 7".

"Gravity" features productions by the likes of The Ummah, Pos of De La Soul, Rahzel of The Roots, Shawn J. Period and others. Guest MC's include Mos Def, Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest, Rahzel and Muntcho Leo.

The trio consisting of Kaos, Y-Tee and Mr. Man grew up in the West Indies, so reggae had a strong influence on their music. Formed in 1992, the Brooklyn representatives dropped their debut "Ambushed" in 1994 followed by the sophomore album "Gravity" in 1996 with the help from a number of Native Tongue members.

Their classic debut. Absolutely essential for all hip hop fans. Includes "PASS THE POPCORN", "GOOD MUSIC", "THE SESSION" and more. With THE ROOTS on JIMMY FALLON every weeknight all stores should have this in stock!

Limited to 2000 copies!

Limited edition of 500 copies on black vinyl.

"The Produce Aisle" marked the full-length debut of Burnt Batch in 1999 and is one of those nuggets from the flourishing Westcoast underground scene around that time. The trio from Stockton, CA, was formed by Rukus, Pause and Pismo who mostly handled the production as well as the writing & raps. 15 tracks with that special blend of laid-back rhymes and Jazz-infected beats.

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP, CD in digipak as well as jewel case and cassette plus digitally on all major platforms.

Dead Serious is the debut studio album of American hip hop duo Das EFX, originally released in 1992. Recording sessions for the album took place at Firehouse Studios in Brooklyn, New York and at Charlie Marotta's North Shore Soundworks studio in Long Island, New York.

Limited to 3000 copies, the VMP exclusive version of Busta Rhymes' The Coming is pressed on Cloudy Red vinyl at GZ Vinyl as part of our year-long celebration of Hip Hop with Warner Music Group and Hip Hop at 50. The 2LPs will arrive in a double gatefold, tip-on, foil-stamped and numbered jacket. It was mastered by Cicely Balston at Alchemy Mastering at AIR.

The Coming is the debut studio album by American rapper Busta Rhymes, released on March 26, 1996, by Elektra Records. The album marked the beginning of Busta Rhymes’ solo career after his time with the hip-hop group Leaders of the New School and introduced his distinct animated style, explosive energy, and versatile flow to a wider audience. The Coming also helped establish Busta Rhymes as one of the most charismatic figures in hip-hop.

The Coming is a fusion of East Coast hip-hop, featuring a mix of hardcore beats, funk samples, and jazz-influenced production. Busta Rhymes’ distinctive delivery and larger-than-life persona shine throughout the album, with tracks that range from introspective moments to wild, party anthems.
The production was handled by several notable producers, including DJ Scratch, Easy Mo Bee, and Busta Rhymes himself, creating a diverse yet cohesive sound. The beats are aggressive, with deep basslines and heavy drums, reflecting the East Coast sound of the mid-90s.

"Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check" – The album’s lead single, and one of Busta Rhymes’ most iconic songs, "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check" became a massive hit due to its high-energy performance and infectious hook. The track features Busta’s eccentric personality and rapid-fire delivery over a bouncing, funky beat. It reached #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped propel Busta Rhymes into the mainstream.
"Everything Remains Raw" – A more hardcore track with aggressive production and Busta Rhymes showcasing his lyrical dexterity. The track is a perfect example of Busta’s ability to balance complex wordplay with his trademark animated flow.
"It's a Party" (featuring Zhane) – A smoother, more laid-back track compared to the album’s more aggressive moments, this song features Zhane on the hook and is a party anthem, highlighting Busta Rhymes' versatility as both a lyricist and entertainer.
"Ill Vibe" (featuring Q-Tip) – This track features Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest, and the two rappers deliver jazzy, smooth verses over a laid-back, boom-bap beat. Their chemistry on this track is undeniable, with Q-Tip’s cool delivery perfectly balancing Busta’s more animated style.
"Flipmode Squad Meets Def Squad" (featuring Jamal, Redman, Lord Have Mercy, and Rampage) – A standout posse cut featuring members of Busta Rhymes' Flipmode Squad and the Def Squad. The track is an aggressive, competitive showcase of lyricism, with each MC bringing their best.

Eccentricity and Braggadocio: Busta Rhymes brings his larger-than-life personality to the forefront, mixing humor, confidence, and intense energy. Tracks like “Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check” feature Busta flexing his skills, while maintaining an entertaining and wild demeanor.
Street Life and Survival: While much of the album is fun and animated, Busta Rhymes also addresses more serious themes, such as growing up in the streets and overcoming adversity.
Party and Celebration: The Coming is also packed with party anthems, which became a staple of Busta Rhymes’ career. Tracks like “It’s a Party” emphasize having a good time, with infectious beats and smooth hooks.

The production on The Coming is diverse but maintains a cohesive sound. DJ Scratch, Easy Mo Bee, The Ummah, and Busta Rhymes himself contributed to the album’s sound, combining elements of funk, jazz, and hardcore hip-hop. The beats are aggressive, with hard drums and funky basslines, complementing Busta Rhymes’ wild vocal delivery.

The Coming received positive reviews from critics, who praised Busta Rhymes for his unique style and infectious energy. It was seen as a strong debut, and Busta’s lyrical prowess and dynamic flow were highly praised.
The album debuted at #6 on the Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA, establishing Busta Rhymes as a force in the rap industry.
The Coming helped pave the way for Busta Rhymes’ successful solo career and positioned him as one of the most creative and charismatic figures in hip-hop. His animated delivery and ability to seamlessly blend humor, intensity, and skill became his trademark.

The Coming is a powerful debut that showcases Busta Rhymes’ talent and unmatched energy. The album’s mix of party anthems, aggressive lyrics, and eclectic beats provided the blueprint for Busta’s long and successful career. With standout tracks like “Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check” and collaborations with Q-Tip and Redman, The Coming remains a classic in 90s hip-hop, highlighting Busta Rhymes’ ability to merge eccentricity with lyrical skill.

Why you'll love it...
Tical calls back to an oft-romanticized period when rockin’ the mic was more than enough, with no filler in sight.

Why you'll love it...
The Love Movement is the unfairly overlooked Tribe record; their fifth–and at the time final–LP, released after the group broke up, and after almost a decade as the leading lights of Native Tongues. But because it came so close to the group’s dissolution, and because it’s concept album trappings of love as the leading light for human existence were far removed from The Shiny Suit era that was starting in earnest, it’s rarely been reconsidered in their oeuvre. No longer, we say: Ride in the immaculate auras presented on this album; hear the Tribe vibe and glide across lush beats and laid back bars. Our edition is the deluxe 25th anniversary edition, on exclusive “Cobweb” vinyl, remastered by Ryan Smith, and with a deluxe heavyweight tri-fold jacket.

Why you'll love it...
The beats on Capital Punishment, from RZA, Rockwilder, Domingo, and other A-list maestros, are grimy, radio- friendly, yet low-ley cutting-edge, affirming its status as an undisputed classic. Big Pun was as much a visionary — conceptualizing every song — as a consummate pro in the booth. Citing Picasso and Baby Jesus while purporting to “twist your temples into pretzels,” Pun made Minute Rice out of multi-syllables. There’s no way to describe Pun’s febrile liberties with the king’s English. He doesn’t really breathe; when he does, it’s a sharp gasp for air that almost mimics his Ginsu-like wordplay. Pun’s habit of sucking wind before spitting an ill verse mimics the effect of a lit grenade about to land and decimate entire sections of the population. If Pun’s dense rhymes invoke mixed metaphors, that’s likely because he’s an impossible amalgam of wanton wooer and lyrical hitman, an overweight lover with a murderous mouthpiece.

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

The contributions of the late Detroit producer James DeWitt Yancey -better
known to the world as J Dilla- to the world of hip-hop can't be overstated, and
nowhere is his legacy more apparent than his work as a member of Slum Village.
A founding member of the trio, (Alongside rappers T3 and Baatin) Dilla provided
the group's distinctly esoteric, free-wheeling sound, built around winding
basslines, quirky drumbeats, subtle low-end frequencies, and classic jazz & soul
samples. Against the backdrop of Dilla's rich production, T3 and Baatin's
free-flowing style of rhyming would also earn wide critical praise, leading to
comparisons as the successors to A Tribe Called Quest. (A label they themselves
have rejected.)
It's on Slum Village's 1997 studio debut, Fan-Tas-Tic Vol. 1, that all these
elements come together in the most proficient manner. An instant hit among
Detroit's underground hip-hop scene, the album seemed to combine all the best
elements of the reigning alternative and gangsta styles of hip-hop into one
cohesive style that was a hit among critics. Fan-Tas-Tic's influence extended far
beyond Detroit, as its sound heavily influenced the sounds of D'Angelo, Erykah
Badu, and The Roots just to name a few. (Roots drummer ?uestlove has even
declared that: "Hands down this album birthed the neo-soul movement.")
Ne'Astra Media Group now presents the album reissued on vinyl, for the first
time in several years. Every wobbling bass note of J Dilla's production has been
preserved and every freestyle line of T3 and Baatin has been re-created, to
maintain the legacy of a late-90s rap classic, and the legend of one of hip-hop's
greatest beatsmiths.

Pressed ON Blue Swirl AND Orange Swirl Colored Vinyl Packaged IN A Gatefold Jacket With Printed Fold OUT Lyrics Sheet Originally released in the fall of 1993 Return of the Boom Bap is KRS-One's first official solo album. The album is pure 90's Hip-Hop filled with KRS-One's trademark conscious raps and storytelling with boom bap beats from the man himself, DJ Premier, Showbiz, and Kid Capri. The album kicks off with a Preemo trademark intro leading into "Outta Here", a tale about coming up in the 80s with a message to emcees not staying true to their roots. Throughout the album KRS-One tackles corrupt police, fake emcees, religion and provides some comical relief on "I Can't Wake Up" where he dreams about being a blunt passed around by a who's who of 90s emcees and Bill Clinton! The album was selected as one of The Source's 100 Best Rap Albums and received a 4 four mics rating in The Source in 1993. Get On Down is proud to present a limited edition pressing of Return of The Boom Bap to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the blast master's classic debut solo album. Includes the bonus freestyle track "Hip-Hop vs Rap" that was on the original "Sound of Da Police" 12-inch.

Ghostface Killah released his debut solo album 25 years ago on October 29, 1996. Produced by fellow Wu-Tang Clan member RZA, Ironman found inspiration in sources ranging from blaxploitation films to classic soul and charted a whole new direction for hip-hop in the process. The album features classic bangers like Daytona 500 featuring Raekwon and Cappadonna to soulful emotionally moving cuts like All That I Got Is You with Mary J Blige.

To commemorate the 25 year anniversary Get On Down is proud to present Ironman in a 2xLP set available on both ‘Blue & Cream’ and ‘Chicken & Broccoli’ half-n-half colored vinyl, each version housed in a deluxe gatefold jacket, packed inside a ‘shoebox’-style 2nd outer jacket embossed with the year 1996.

Tommy Boy Reissues exclusive limited edition pressing of Capone-N-Noreaga's "The War Report" on October 22, 2021 as part of Tommy Boy's 40th anniversary Hailing from Queens, New York, Capone and Noreaga first met while both serving time in prison. Upon their release, the duo hit the studio, concocting their debut album, "The War Report, " and launching Capone-N-Noreaga in 1997. The now cult-classic, featured strong underground overtones and served as a turning point in Hip Hop, bringing a more hardcore sound and is credited for reviving East Coast Hip Hop and signaling a return to realistic, gritty, street aesthetics. Despite the projects underground appeal, it also found massive commercial success. Lead by singles, "L. A. , L. A. , " "T. O. N. Y. (Top of New York), " "Closer, " and "Illegal Life, " "The War Report" has since been certified Gold by the RIAA and continues to garner spins on radio stations around the globe. Thanks to N. O. R. E. 's unorthodox lyrical delivery and Capone's streetwise slang and Five Percenter references, Capone-N-Noreaga brought new life into the Gangsta Rap subgenre, becoming an instant underground phenomenon, and making them both a household name within the hardcore Hip Hop community. Topping out at #21 on the Billboard 200 and #4 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip Hop albums chart, "The War Report, " continues to prove itself as a must have amongst record collectors. This year, as part of Tommy Boy's 40th anniversary celebration, this classic project will be reissued as a limited, colored vinyl release that will for sure be a must have for golden era Hip Hop heads.

Classic album reissued!

Deluxe Edition celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the second The Roots album. Comes with a 24-page booklet. Must have!

Do You Want More?!!!??! is the second studio album by The Roots, released on January 17, 1995. This album is a landmark in hip-hop because it showcases The Roots' use of live instrumentation rather than relying on samples and drum machines, which was the dominant production method in rap at the time. It helped establish The Roots as a unique force within hip-hop, blending genres like jazz, funk, and soul into their music and standing out as pioneers of the "alternative rap" movement.

The album is notable for its organic sound, primarily driven by live instruments, with contributions from musicians such as drummer Questlove, keyboardist Scott Storch, and bassist Leonard Hubbard.
It represents The Roots’ early jazz-influenced, laid-back sound, which sharply contrasted with the harder, sample-driven beats of mainstream hip-hop in the mid-1990s.
Do You Want More?!!!??! was the group’s first major-label release (on DGC/Geffen Records) and introduced them to a broader audience beyond their underground roots.

The album is known for its strong jazz-rap influence, with heavy use of improvisation, live drumming, and horn sections, giving it a feel akin to a live jam session.
The Roots draw from the traditions of jazz and soul music, fusing those styles with the vocal rhythms and lyrical complexity of hip-hop.
Beatboxing and vocal percussion are also used throughout the album, particularly with contributions from Rahzel, known as "The Godfather of Noyze," who uses his beatboxing skills as an instrument in several tracks.

Lyrically, Black Thought (Tariq Trotter) and Malik B (Malik Abdul Basit) address topics ranging from urban life and relationships to the state of hip-hop and artistic integrity.
Much of the album is celebratory, exploring themes like the joy of performing, living in the moment, and reflecting on personal experiences.
The lyrics are often introspective and conversational, matching the album’s laid-back, jazzy feel. Unlike the aggressive or gangsta rap style popular at the time, the focus here is more on storytelling and social commentary.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Proceed" – One of the album’s standout singles, with a mellow, jazzy beat and Black Thought's smooth, confident flow. This track became one of The Roots' signature songs, with several remix versions following its release.
"Distortion to Static" – A jazz-heavy, upbeat track that features both Black Thought and Malik B trading verses, with intricate lyricism and a distinct live sound. This song helped establish their reputation as lyrical craftsmen.
"Mellow My Man" – A smooth, funk-infused track that showcases The Roots' musicianship, particularly Questlove’s drumming, and explores more laid-back, reflective themes.
"Essaywhuman?!!!??!" – An almost entirely improvised, live track, with live scatting and beatboxing, blending hip-hop with jazz in real-time, giving the listener a glimpse of The Roots' live performance energy.
"Silent Treatment" – One of the few songs on the album that delves into personal relationships, specifically the emotional dynamics of a romantic relationship gone awry. The song’s smooth delivery and production make it one of the more accessible tracks on the album.
"Datskat" – A playful track with an emphasis on jazz improvisation, including a prominent saxophone section and Rahzel’s beatboxing, highlighting the album’s unique sonic experimentation.
Collaborations and Guest Appearances:
Rahzel (beatboxing) and Scott Storch (keyboards) both play significant roles on this album, contributing to its eclectic, live-instrument sound.
Saxophonist Steve Coleman and trumpeter Graham Haynes lend their jazz expertise, enhancing the album’s jazz-fusion vibe.

Do You Want More?!!!??! received critical acclaim for its innovative use of live instrumentation and jazz influences in hip-hop. Critics praised the album for its originality and the band’s musical proficiency.
The album was celebrated for breaking away from the sample-driven norm of hip-hop production in the 1990s, helping to expand the genre’s sonic possibilities.
Despite its critical success, Do You Want More?!!!??! did not achieve major commercial success at the time, but it has since gained a cult following and is regarded as a classic in both hip-hop and alternative music circles.
Themes:
A key theme in the album is the exploration of musicianship in hip-hop. By blending jazz improvisation and live performances with rap, The Roots were not just making music—they were actively challenging the boundaries of what hip-hop could be.
Cultural identity and artistic integrity also play central roles in the lyrics, with Black Thought and Malik B often ruminating on their roles as artists in a changing and often commodified hip-hop landscape.

While not a massive commercial hit upon release, Do You Want More?!!!??! has become regarded as one of the seminal albums of the jazz-rap genre and a landmark in alternative hip-hop.
The album set the stage for The Roots’ later success and is seen as an important precursor to their subsequent, more polished and socially-conscious works, like Things Fall Apart (1999).
Do You Want More?!!!??! also helped to redefine live hip-hop performance, as The Roots proved that a live band could create complex, compelling music that resonated both within and beyond the hip-hop community.
Its influence extends to many artists in hip-hop and neo-soul, especially those involved with the Soulquarians, a collective of artists like Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, and Common with whom The Roots would collaborate extensively.
The album's blend of jazz, live instrumentation, and socially-conscious lyrics helped The Roots carve out a distinct niche in the hip-hop world, making Do You Want More?!!!??! a defining moment in their career and a critical touchstone in the evolution of alternative hip-hop.

In commemoration of its 25th anniversary Interscope presents the reissue of “2Pacalypse Now”. “2Pacalypse Now” is the debut studio album by American rapper 2Pac. It was released on November 1991, by Interscope Records and EastWest Records America. Less polished than it later proceed with his studio album, “2Pacalypse Now”, which is 2Pac's commentary on contemporary social issues facing American society such as racism, police brutality, poverty, black on black crime, and teenage pregnancy, some issues giving a lyrical glimpse into the world of a young black man on the urban streets of the United States. It featured three singles; "Brenda's Got a Baby", "Trapped", and "If My Homie Calls". 2Pacalypse Now was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) 1995 for sales of 500,000 copies in the United States.

The album generated significant controversy stemming from then-U.S. Vice President Dan Quayle's public criticism after Ronald Ray Howard murdered a Texas state trooper and his defense attorney claimed he was influenced by “2Pacalypse Now” and its strong theme of police brutality. Quayle made the statement, "There's no reason for a record like this to be released. It has no place in our society."

Limited edition with fresh-n-def chrome cover!

Official and limited reissue on Def Jam. Previously released as a 2LP set, this version has now been converted to 1LP, in addition to a limited edition CE color vinyl version.

Undun is the tenth studio album by The Roots, released on December 6, 2011. It is a concept album that tells the tragic, reverse-chronological story of a fictional character named Redford Stephens, a young man who becomes involved in a life of crime and meets an untimely death. The album explores the themes of fate, choice, and the socio-economic pressures that lead individuals into cycles of poverty, crime, and existential struggle.

Undun is told in reverse order, beginning with Redford’s death and slowly moving back through the key moments of his life that led to his demise. This structure provides a reflective, somber narrative, examining the forces that shaped his decisions and eventual downfall.
The album’s narrative structure emphasizes the sense of inevitability and regret, making it a powerful meditation on the fragility of life and the consequences of choices.
The character of Redford Stephens was inspired by a piece of music by composer Sufjan Stevens, titled "Redford (For Yia-Yia and Pappou)." This instrumental track is reinterpreted and appears toward the end of the album, underscoring its emotional weight.

Musically, Undun is a mix of hip-hop, neo-soul, orchestral elements, and art rock. The production is lush yet sparse, with haunting melodies, complex arrangements, and The Roots' trademark live instrumentation.
Questlove’s drumming and Black Thought’s lyricism are central to the album, with the music often using minimalist beats and atmospheric soundscapes to complement the lyrical themes of existential despair and reflection.
The album also features moments of instrumental interludes, which add to the cinematic and conceptual feel of the project.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Sleep" – The album’s opening track (which depicts the final moment of Redford’s life) is introspective and haunting. Black Thought raps about the moments before death, with lyrics like "I’ve lost a lot of sleep to dreams" capturing the sense of hopelessness and inevitability.
"Make My" (featuring Big K.R.I.T.) – This single features a melancholic beat and lyrics that delve into regret and introspection, with Big K.R.I.T.'s verse complementing Black Thought’s meditations on life and death.
"One Time" (featuring Phonte and Dice Raw) – A standout track that focuses on the idea of seizing moments and making choices, set to a gritty, understated beat. Black Thought and guest rapper Phonte trade verses, exploring themes of existential crisis and fleeting opportunities.
"Kool On" (featuring Greg Porn and Truck North) – One of the lighter, more groove-driven tracks on the album, yet still reflective, with lyrics addressing Redford’s attempts to navigate the temptations and pressures of street life.
"The Otherside" – A soul-stirring track that looks at the crossroads between life and death, with deeply philosophical lyrics. Black Thought’s introspective verse, combined with Dice Raw’s somber chorus, reflects the haunting struggle between moral choices and survival.
"Tip the Scale" – A reflection on the difficulty of breaking free from the cyclical patterns of poverty and crime, with Black Thought delivering some of the most emotionally raw and philosophical verses on the album.
"Redford" (the instrumental suite) – A moving four-part instrumental conclusion, drawing from Sufjan Stevens' original composition. This suite, made up of piano, strings, and drums, evokes the emotional depth of Redford’s life and his ultimate fate.

Existentialism and Free Will: The album continually questions the role of fate versus choice. Redford’s life is portrayed as a series of decisions that, while influenced by his environment, ultimately lead to his downfall, raising questions about whether he had any real control over his fate.
Social Injustice and Poverty: Many of the lyrics explore how systemic injustice, poverty, and lack of opportunity can push individuals into lives of crime. The album highlights the harsh realities faced by young Black men in America, grappling with the intersections of race, class, and violence.
Regret and Reflection: Much of the album has a reflective, mournful tone as Black Thought and other guest vocalists deliver verses that look back at life’s moments, filled with what-ifs and regrets, exploring the loss of potential and the weight of past decisions.
Production and Collaborations:
The album is largely produced by The Roots themselves, with Questlove overseeing much of the production. The minimalist yet atmospheric production style mirrors the album’s darker themes, with an emphasis on live instruments.
Undun includes collaborations with Big K.R.I.T., Phonte, Dice Raw, Truck North, and Greg Porn, all of whom contribute to the narrative through their verses and vocal contributions.

Undun received widespread critical acclaim for its ambitious concept, narrative depth, and emotional resonance. Critics praised the album for its cohesive storytelling, complex themes, and innovative production.
Many hailed it as one of The Roots' best albums, with its conceptual depth and musical sophistication setting it apart from conventional hip-hop albums.
The album was noted for its maturity and introspective tone, marking a departure from The Roots’ earlier, more outwardly political works, and instead focusing on the internal struggles of the individual within a broken system.

Undun is often regarded as one of the best concept albums in hip-hop, comparable to works like Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city for its narrative depth and thematic richness.
The album’s reverse chronology and philosophical musings influenced other artists looking to explore more experimental and narrative-driven albums.
Undun reinforced The Roots' reputation as one of the most innovative and thoughtful acts in hip-hop, further blurring the lines between rap, live instrumentation, and high-concept artistry.

Undun is a deeply reflective and philosophical album, focusing on the life and fate of a character caught between the societal pressures and personal choices that ultimately lead to his demise. With its reverse storytelling, live instrumentation, and poignant lyricism, the album stands as one of The Roots’ most emotionally complex and musically innovative works. It challenges listeners to think deeply about the forces that shape lives and the fine line between survival and destruction.

180 gram black vinyl pressing!

Funkdoobiest is an American rap group from Los Angeles, California.
The original members were Son Doobie, DJ Ralph M and Tomahawk Funk. Which Doobie U B? is the debut studio album by the Latino rap group Funkdoobiest.
DJ Muggs was the executive producer for this album. Tracks on the album are performed by Son Doobie and Tomahawk Funk, including additional Cypress Hill member B-Real on the track "Wopbabalubop".
Hence the album is very much in line with the Cypress Hill productions. "It all works anyway", according to Allmusic review writer Steve Huey, he continues "Muggs is in his absolute prime as a producer here, and Son Doobie's rhymes are fittingly surreal and stoner-friendly, albeit more cartoonish than menacing like his Cypress counterpart".
The album title derived from a line in an episode of the 1970s sitcom What's Happening!!, when the main character, Raj, is introduced to special guests The Doobie Brothers.

Official rerelease on double vinyl - that's a hip hop classic ... first group of MF Doom!

The contributions of the late Detroit producer James DeWitt Yancey –better known
to the world as J Dilla- to the world of hip-hop can't be overstated, and nowhere
is his legacy more apparent than his work as a member of Slum Village. A founding member of the trio, (Alongside rappers T3 and Baatin) Dilla provided the group's distinctly esoteric, free-wheeling sound, built around winding basslines, quirky drumbeats, subtle low-end frequencies, and classic jazz & soul samples. Against the backdrop of Dilla's rich production, T3 and Baatin's free-flowing style of rhyming would also earn wide critical praise, leading to comparisons as the successors to A Tribe Called Quest. (A label they themselves have rejected.)

After the success of Slum’s 1997 studio debut, Fan-Tas-Tic Vol. 1, the group went
to work on their follow up. Though the project was completed in ’98, label turmoil kept the project on ice until 2000. By the time Fantastic Volume II hit Dilla was well on his way to his status as a hip hop legend having produced cuts for Common,
Busta Rhymes, Erykah Badu, A Tribe Called Quest and many more. Later works from Slum Village may have had more of an impact sales-wise (in the immediate)but Fantastic Vol. 2 had fans and many critics saying that Slum Village, and Dilla
in particular, may “single-handedly save rap music.” Perhaps that statement is
hyperbole but many consider Fantastic Volume II to be Slum Village’s finest work
ever to this day.

Ne'Astra Media Group now presents the album reissued on vinyl, for the first time
in several years. Every wobbling bass note of J Dilla's production has been
preserved to maintain the legacy of this hip hop rap classic and maintain the
legend of one of hip-hop's greatest beatsmiths.

One of the best albums ever.

“The Marshall Mathers LP” is the third studio album by American rapper Eminem. It was released in 2000, by Aftermath Entertainment, Interscope Records, and Eminem's newly founded label, Shady Records in the United States and by Polydor Records in the United Kingdom. The album was produced mostly by Dr. Dre and Eminem, along with The 45 King, the Bass Brothers, and Mel-Man. Released a year after Eminem's breakout album “The Slim Shady LP”, the record features more introspective lyricism including the rapper's response to his sudden rise to fame and controversy surrounding his lyrics.

The album sold more than 1.78 million copies in the US in its first week alone, becoming the fastest-selling studio album by any solo artist in American music history. In 2001, the album won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album and was nominated for Album of the Year. Eminem lost the latter to jazz-rock duo Steely Dan and their album “Two Against Nature”. The album was certified Diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America in March 2011 for shipping 10 million copies in the United States. By December 2016, the album had sold over 11 million copies in the United States and more than 32 million copies worldwide. A sequel to the album, “The Marshall Mathers LP 2”, was released on November 2013.

In celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the iconic Def Jam Recordings brings us some of its classic repertoire on vinyl in a spectacular “fruit punch” variant – a color emblematic of its longstanding association with Def Jam. Some titles include Public Enemy’s Yo! Bum Rush the Show, Ludacris’ Word of Mouf, Method Man’s Tical, and Slick Rick’s The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.

Indie Exclusive Black Vinyl Edition.

It might blow up, but it won't go pop!

De La Soul’s third studio release, Buhloone Mindstate, released on September 21, 1993, saw the group evolve into a new sound as they continued to grow stylistically and musically. There were several moments on the album which proved the band had matured. "I Be Blowin'" was a departure as the track was an instrumental featuring saxophone playing by Maceo Parker. The introspective "I Am I Be" showed De La Soul at their most self-referential to date. "Long Island Wildin'" was a collaboration with Japanese hip hop artists Kan Takagi (Major Force) and trio Scha Dara Parr (sdp). The album's first single, "Breakadawn", used a sample of Michael Jackson's "I Can't Help It" and Smokey Robinson's "Quiet Storm". De La Soul collaborated for the first time with Gang Starr's Guru on "Patti Dooke", and female MC Shortie No Mas who was prominent on many tracks on the album and showcased particularly on "In The Woods". The album ended with an old school Biz Markie collaboration called "Stone Age".

Attention: Intro, Skits and Interludes are not part of this reissue, unfortunately.

Awesome album by Compton's Kendrick Lamar called "To Pimp A Butterfly" with guest spots by Flying Lotus, George Clinton, Knxwledge, Snoop Dogg, Taz of Sa-Ra Creative Partners, Rapsody and more!

R.I.P. Trugoy the Dove

Finally back on vinyl. Now as a double vinyl LP, officially reissued. Must have! 3 Feet High and Rising is the debut studio album by hip hop trio De La Soul and was released on March 3, 1989 It marked the first of three full- length collaborations with producer Prince Paul, which would become the critical and commercial peak of both parties. Critically, as well as commercially, the album was a success. It contains the singles, "Me Myself and I", "The Magic Number", "Buddy", and "Eye Know". The album title came from the Johnny Cash song "Five Feet High and Rising". It is listed on Rolling Stone's 200 Essential Rock Records and The Source's 100 Best Rap Albums. When Village Voice held its annual Pazz & Jop Critics Poll for 1989, 3 Feet High and Rising was ranked #1. It was also listed on the Rolling Stone's The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Released amid the 1989 boom in gangsta rap, which gravitated towards hardcore, confrontational, violent lyrics, De La Soul's uniquely positive style made them an oddity beginning with the first single, "Me, Myself and I". Their positivity meant many observers labeled them a 'hippie' group, based on their declaration of the 'D.A.I.S.Y. Age' (Da. Inner. Soul. Yall). Sampling artists as diverse as Hall & Oates, Steely Dan and The Turtles, 3 Feet High and Rising is often viewed as the stylistic beginning of 1990s alternative hip hop (and especially jazz rap).

2023 repress without the 'Respect The Classics' sticker.

This Gang Starr classic from the golden 90s back on the scene.

Back in print! The 1st real Wu-Tang solo album!

In celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the iconic Def Jam Recordings brings us some of its classic repertoire on vinyl in a spectacular “fruit punch” variant – a color emblematic of its longstanding association with Def Jam. Some titles include Public Enemy’s Yo! Bum Rush the Show, Ludacris’ Word of Mouf, Method Man’s Tical, and Slick Rick’s The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.

Entirely produced by No I.D. ... critically acclaimed back when it came out and a classic today!

The Beastie Boys sophomore album i reissued on 180g vinyl. How about that?

Almost a miracle that this sample-loaded milestone gets a reissue.

The German Rolling Stone Magazine had this album at no.16 on their all-time hip hop album top 50 list and Pitchfork media even had it on no. 3 on their "Best Albums of the 80s"-list.

In celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the iconic Def Jam Recordings brings us some of its classic repertoire on vinyl in a spectacular “fruit punch” variant – a color emblematic of its longstanding association with Def Jam. Some titles include Public Enemy’s Yo! Bum Rush the Show, Ludacris’ Word of Mouf, Method Man’s Tical, and Slick Rick’s The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.

180 gram audiophile vinyl / SECOND STUDIO ALBUM BY TR LUV, DJ MOE LUV, KOOL KEITH, CED GEE AND TIM DOG / FEATURING THE SINGLES “POPPA LARGE AND “MAKE IT HAPPEN” / FOR THE FIRST TIME AVAILABLE AS 2LP-SET

Ultramagnetic Mc’s is composed of TR ‘Funky’ Luv, DJ Moe Luv on the one and two’s, Kool Keith, producer Ced Gee and occasionally Tim Dog. Their second studio album Funk Your Head Up was released in 1992, representing the foundation of Hip-Hop. Culled off the album are singles “Poppa Large” and “Make It Happen” plus tracks by Kool Keith’s “Pluckin’ Cards”, “Dolly And The Rat Trap”, the diss track “You Ain’t Real” about rapper Freddie Fox, skits, mad beats, and outlandish lyricism. Funk Your Head Up was originally only available as a 1LP but is now available as a 2LP-set for the first time

2021 Pressing.
Another golden era classic gets reissued by Get On Down: Although Diamond D handles the majority of the album's production, others such as Large Professor, Q-Tip, Jazzy Jay, Showbiz, and DJ Mark the 45 King co-produce on several tracks. The music he was making in 1992 cemented Diamond as one of the best producers in the game. This record is true to his heart, and because of the immense quality of its contents, it should be remembered fondly by all lovers of this music. As he puts it “Diamond is Dope Nuff Said”. Essential!

180 GRAM AUDIOPHILE VINYL
INCLUDES INSERT
FEATURING THE SINGLES “BULLIES OF THE BLOCK” AND “HOT POTATO”
#51 ON THE NME LIST OF THE “100 LOST ALBUMS YOU NEED TO KNOW”

Remastered version on fine 180 gram vinyl. Another all time classic by the Beasties!

Finally available on vinyl: "Damn.", Kendrick's fourth studio album!

Until the End of Time is the seventh studio album, and third posthumous album by 2Pac. It follows his previous posthumous albums R U Still Down? (Remember Me) and Still I Rise. The album consists of material recorded while the rapper was on Death Row Records from 1995–1996. The album debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart.

A majority of the music compositions were remixed from their original state. Highly anticipated, Until the End of Time was ultimately one of the best selling hip hop albums of 2001. There were only three times references to Death Row Records were not censored (“Until the End of Time” (both versions), “U Don’t Have 2 Worry”, and “All Out”). The core vocal tracks and some instrumentation was recorded during and after the All Eyez On Me and Makaveli: The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory sessions.

This will be a 180 gram 4LP 20th anniversary reissue of the long out-of-print, 4x platinum, posthumous album.

No Autotune on this one!

First published in 2003, King Geedorah’s »Take Me To Your Leader« became an instant classic amongst fans. King Geedorah, named after the three-headed gold dragons from the Godzilla movies, is MF Doom's alias what he uses as part of the supergroup »Monsta Island Czars«. The album includes features by Jet Jaguar (MF Grimm) and some other »MIC« members.

Kool Keith is an American rapper from The Bronx known for his surreal, abstract and often profane or incomprehensible lyrics. Black Elvis/Lost in Space is the fourth studio album by mc Kool Keith, but recorded under the alias of Black Elvis. This is the first album performed under this alias.

2024 repress

Official reissue of the Souls' masterpiece! Essential pick!

Why you'll love it...
The War Report, the 1997 brilliantly militant debut from Capone-N-Noreaga, is the VMP Hip-Hop Record of the Month in December 2022. Celebrating the record's 25th anniversary, our edition is pressed on 2LP Yellow vinyl, with lacquers cut by Cicely Balston...

Why you'll love it...
By All Means Necessary is often discussed like it’s some departure from Criminal Minded. The moment KRS turned into “The Teacha” and became a politically minded, socially conscious wordsmith. In reality, this is who he already was. Misunderstanding and tragedy is what compelled him to not only refocus on the role he wanted to play in hip-hop, but create an album that gave way to a very important movement in hip-hop, too.

By All Means Necessary is an essential and definitive BDP and KRS album. It marks the moment where KRS wasn’t just concerned with being a great emcee but a teacher, too, continuing his exploration of sociopolitical subjects on BDP’s following three albums, as well as throughout his solo career.

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.

The groundbreaking 1st album is back in print! Bombsquad in full effect.

Vinyl LP pressing. Tommy Boy Records celebrates 30 Years of House of Pain's debut album House of Pain (Fine Malt Lyrics) with this remastered edition. Everlast, DJ Lethal & Danny Boy formed House of Pain while attending high school and were signed to Tommy Boy Records after fashioning themselves as rowdy Irish-American hooligans, hitting the local rap and alternative music scene. House of Pain (Fine Malt Lyrics) went multi-platinum and the self titled debut album spawned the successful producer DJ Muggs, who produced the single "Jump Around". The song was also remixed twice by Pete Rock, one version featuring a verse from him and one without. "Jump Around" became a hit in 1992, reaching number 3 in the United States. The album also featured Cypress Hill member B-Real on the song "Put Your Head Out" and Funkdoobiest's Son Doobie on "House and the Rising Sun", both members of the musical collective known as Soul Assassins.

Why you'll love it...
"Despite a boisterous personality from Chad “Pimp C” Butler and a steely menace from Bernard “Bun B” Freeman, the Underground Kingz rose as most men do: from gifted measures despite hard-scrabble surroundings. By the time they were 19, they crafted a crude, yet wholly Southern debut album titled Too Hard To Swallow. The genius within Too Hard To Swallow arrives when you realize it is an album of promising sonic development and two rappers wanting to find their footing as the rappers from their section of Texas."

180 gram pressing in gatefold sleeve!

2024 pressing of this classic 90s Roots gem!

Illadelph Halflife is the third studio album by the legendary hip-hop group The Roots, released on September 24, 1996. This album solidified The Roots' reputation as innovative musicians who blend live instrumentation with traditional hip-hop elements, standing out in an era where most rap groups used sample-based production.

The album features The Roots' signature blend of live instrumentation, jazz-infused beats, and socially conscious lyrics, along with skilled wordplay. The band’s drummer, Questlove, and rapper/lyricist Black Thought (Tariq Trotter) take the lead in crafting a sound that moves between laid-back grooves and more intense, intricate musical arrangements. Live instrumentation is a core element, with a focus on creating complex rhythms and organic soundscapes.

Illadelph Halflife addresses various topics, including social issues, racial identity, urban life, and the challenges of fame.
The lyrics are often introspective, with Black Thought offering sharp commentary on the struggles of African Americans, the complexities of relationships, and the pressures of navigating the music industry.
The album also explores the concept of self-doubt and searching for authenticity in both personal and societal contexts.

While not a massive commercial hit upon its release, the album was critically acclaimed for its innovative production, complex lyricism, and the tight cohesion of The Roots as a band. It has since become regarded as one of the most important hip-hop albums of the 1990s. It is celebrated for balancing underground aesthetics with more accessible sounds, paving the way for alternative hip-hop to gain a broader audience.
Some tracks that stand out:
"What They Do" – A critique of materialism and superficiality in the music industry, accompanied by a memorable video that parodied flashy rap videos.
"Concerto of the Desperado" – A harder, more aggressive track, showcasing Black Thought’s lyrical prowess and The Roots' dynamic, live sound.
"Clones" – One of the more aggressive tracks, addressing the concept of originality versus imitation in hip-hop.
"Episodes" – A dark and introspective track that delves into street life and violence.

Illadelph Halflife helped The Roots gain a devoted fan base and led to further critical recognition. It is often cited as one of the most influential hip-hop albums of the era, known for its jazz influence, conscious lyricism, and its rejection of the dominant sound in mid-90s hip-hop.
This album marked a turning point for The Roots as they began to shift towards even more experimental and politically engaged projects, which would later culminate in their landmark album Things Fall Apart in 1999.
Illadelph Halflife represents The Roots at a critical stage in their evolution, showcasing their ability to blend musicianship and message, setting them apart as one of the most innovative groups in hip-hop history.

HipHop classic. Must have. DJ Premier and Guru never failed.

Undeniable classic of 90s New York hip hop!

At that, giving the strutting, funky grooves the chance to really stretch out on your system.
Back in 1992, Southern hip-hop was still proving to the world that it could sustain a fan base that was chiefly raised on rap from New York and LA. The Geto Boys and 2 Live Crew had made strong cases by the earliest ‘90s, and Pimp C and Bun B were ready to make their own. Most of the trunk-bumping bass comes from drum programs and basic sampling on these tunes – in later years they would build their sound into something even fuller and deeper. Self-produced with additional work from Houston locals Bernie Bismark and Shetoro Henderson, the tracks here are minimal, slow and menacing, which matched their lyrical approach quite nicely.

You can hear the beginnings of the group’s true greatness in these early lyrical workouts – several taken from the regional cassette-only EP The Southern Way that got them signed to Jive – with tales of street hustles, relationships and self-reliance in a world stacked against them. They may have been done early-on, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t crucial to UGK’s legacy – cases in point being the three singles: “Something
Good”; a charismatic update to Bill Withers’ “Use Me Up”; and “Pocket Full Of Stones” (the latter featured on the Menace II Society soundtrack). Beyond the singles, deeper cuts like “I’m So Bad,” “Feels Like I’m The One Who’s Doin’ Dope” and “Cramping My Style” made it clear to the world that this crew had the attitude and charisma to make even bigger waves in the years to come.

No One Can Do It Better is the debut album by The D.O.C. from 1989 and is produced by the then upcoming Dr. Dre who contributed on most of the fast hard hitting rap tracks with his heavy funk laden beats. The album reached number one on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and went platinum five years after its release.

The Main Ingredient is the second album by Pete Rock & CL Smooth, originally released in 1994. Characterized by sultry soul and jazz samples, the album saw a more polished sound than the duo's debut Mecca & The Soul Brother [MOVLP1633], building on the praise that they had already garnered. The Main Ingredient it contains some of the duo's best known work, in the form of tracks such as the upbeat "In The House", and the catchy "Sun Won't Come Out", which features a lush vocal sample from the song of the same name by Harvey Scales.

The one that started the whole Quas craze! Madlib beats at its best! 2021 repress

In celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the iconic Def Jam Recordings brings us some of its classic repertoire on vinyl in a spectacular “fruit punch” variant – a color emblematic of its longstanding association with Def Jam. Some titles include Public Enemy’s Yo! Bum Rush the Show, Ludacris’ Word of Mouf, Method Man’s Tical, and Slick Rick’s The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.