Hip Hop 170 Items

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

We are very pleased to present Adagio!'s "Str8 Off The DAT", the third release of the duo comprised of Obvious Wonder (also known as Carta' P.) and Ray Foges (also known as Ray Supreme) on 90's Tapes. The group dug deep in their crates to come up with 7 unreleased tracks recorded between 1992 and 1997, bringing you that special Adagio! vibe once again.

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

Limited edition of 100 copies on cassette.

We are very pleased to present Adagio!'s "Str8 Off The DAT", the third release of the duo comprised of Obvious Wonder (also known as Carta' P.) and Ray Foges (also known as Ray Supreme) on 90's Tapes. The group dug deep in their crates to come up with 7 unreleased tracks recorded between 1992 and 1997, bringing you that special Adagio! vibe once again.

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

Limited edition of 500 copies on black vinyl.

We are very pleased to present Adagio!'s "Str8 Off The DAT", the third release of the duo comprised of Obvious Wonder (also known as Carta' P.) and Ray Foges (also known as Ray Supreme) on 90's Tapes. The group dug deep in their crates to come up with 7 unreleased tracks recorded between 1992 and 1997, bringing you that special Adagio! vibe once again.

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

Seasoned MC and producer, Apathy, delivers his 9th full length album as an integral piece of his impressive 25+ year career. Back in 2014, he blessed hip hop heads with "Connecticut Casual", one of his most personal and fan-favorite outings to date. Once again heavily inspired by his hometown surroundings and shore-life encounters, Ap brings to fruition the next chapter in the soundtrack to the New England way of life with this new-age sequel to the original "CT Casual". The majority of the project is painstakingly produced by newcomer beatsmith, Playa Haze, with additional production from Apathy himself, along with contributions from Alcapella, plus Little Vic on both the boards and the mic. Ap's longtime partner-in-rhyme, Celph Titled, appears as one of the few guest features blessing the LP. Sail along this ride through murky waters, mysterious folklore, brash talk, and experience the East Coast lifestyle through the eyes of a Demigod.

Seasoned MC and producer, Apathy, delivers his 9th full length album as an integral piece of his impressive 25+ year career. Back in 2014, he blessed hip hop heads with "Connecticut Casual", one of his most personal and fan-favorite outings to date. Once again heavily inspired by his hometown surroundings and shore-life encounters, Ap brings to fruition the next chapter in the soundtrack to the New England way of life with this new-age sequel to the original "CT Casual". The majority of the project is painstakingly produced by newcomer beatsmith, Playa Haze, with additional production from Apathy himself, along with contributions from Alcapella, plus Little Vic on both the boards and the mic. Ap's longtime partner-in-rhyme, Celph Titled, appears as one of the few guest features blessing the LP. Sail along this ride through murky waters, mysterious folklore, brash talk, and experience the East Coast lifestyle through the eyes of a Demigod.

This is Apollo Brown's very first beat collection put together in 2007 a few years before winning the Red Bull Big Tune Championship in Detroit and then signing to Mello Music Group. The collection has been such a popular record around the Mello Music Group office for the past few years that we decided to make it available to everyone for a one time pressing on vinyl. Over 30 tracks from Apollo Brown.

Often recognized as one of the most consistent and prolificduos in independent hip-hop, Atmosphere hit a stride ofextraordinary output from July 2007 to April 2008, even by theirown standards. Within those 9 months, they released afull-length album, four EP's, and a 42-minute mixtape ofexclusive material, altogether totaling 48 new songs released, allwhile they were consistently touring as well. This rapid-fire stringof releases introduced some of their most popular songs to dateand showcased their dynamic range, from moody and reflective,to upbeat and optimistic, to a boom-bap throwback style of rap,the latter of which was most prominently displayed on themixtape. Introduced on Christmas Day 2007, the mixtape was a"gift" to fans in the form of a free download, aptly titled StrictlyLeakage - a nod to both eschewing standardized industrypractices in favor of giving the music away, and to anotherprominent album title from the era that inspired them andperhaps more specifically, these recordings.Strictly Leakage surprised fans and critics alike, not justbecause the download invite appeared in their inbox withoutwarning, but also because the project sounded so uniquelydifferent from Atmosphere's typical recordings. Ant was diggingdeep into the funk & soul crates, favoring samples over liveinstrumentation, and producing tracks that sounded as if theywere birthed alongside late '80s and early '90s hip-hop classics.Slug was rapping with a renewed passion, yet somehowsounding more casual and carefree delivering endless wordplaywith more technical rhyme patterns than other Atmosphereprojects. Together, they created 13 exclusive songs that soundedas if they were just having fun making them, without thepressure of any album expectations - undoubtedly as rewardingan exercise for themselves as it was for the listeners.Early on, Strictly Leakage had been pressed on a limited run ofvinyl and CD, but it wasn't long before they sold out, and fanswere left chasin...

Often recognized as one of the most consistent and prolificduos in independent hip-hop, Atmosphere hit a stride ofextraordinary output from July 2007 to April 2008, even by theirown standards. Within those 9 months, they released afull-length album, four EP's, and a 42-minute mixtape ofexclusive material, altogether totaling 48 new songs released, allwhile they were consistently touring as well. This rapid-fire stringof releases introduced some of their most popular songs to dateand showcased their dynamic range, from moody and reflective,to upbeat and optimistic, to a boom-bap throwback style of rap,the latter of which was most prominently displayed on themixtape. Introduced on Christmas Day 2007, the mixtape was a"gift" to fans in the form of a free download, aptly titled StrictlyLeakage - a nod to both eschewing standardized industrypractices in favor of giving the music away, and to anotherprominent album title from the era that inspired them andperhaps more specifically, these recordings.Strictly Leakage surprised fans and critics alike, not justbecause the download invite appeared in their inbox withoutwarning, but also because the project sounded so uniquelydifferent from Atmosphere's typical recordings. Ant was diggingdeep into the funk & soul crates, favoring samples over liveinstrumentation, and producing tracks that sounded as if theywere birthed alongside late '80s and early '90s hip-hop classics.Slug was rapping with a renewed passion, yet somehowsounding more casual and carefree delivering endless wordplaywith more technical rhyme patterns than other Atmosphereprojects. Together, they created 13 exclusive songs that soundedas if they were just having fun making them, without thepressure of any album expectations - undoubtedly as rewardingan exercise for themselves as it was for the listeners.Early on, Strictly Leakage had been pressed on a limited run ofvinyl and CD, but it wasn't long before they sold out, and fanswere left chasin...

Recorded at Avantdale Bowling Club’s sold out headline date at Auckland’s iconic Powerstation in August 2019 – the album includes extended live versions of four tracks from his self-titled debut album – awarded the 2019 Taite Music Prize and Album of the Year at the 2019 Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards – plus To Live and Die in Ad.

London-based label, Def Presse are very pleased to announce their partnership with legendary Library Music label KPM. Def Presse Editions/KPM Crate Diggers are works built around samples from KPM releases. As part of the series - Blockhead presents his new album, Luminous Rubble, where the artist dives deep into KPM’s iconic music and sound design library. Blockhead has released 15 albums over the past 15 years and is regarded as one of the modern masters of instrumental hip-hop. It’s a producer’s dream: Being given access to a vast library of material to construct something completely new and exciting out of all of it and when Blockhead’s at the controls, the results are a listener’s paradise, too. The New York City-based hip-hop production legend’s Luminous Rubble is the latest missive in a particularly busy period for the underground hip-hop veteran, who’s spent the last decades lending his considerable talents to work from artists like Armand Hammer, billy woods, Murs, and Open Mike Eagle; in 2021, he released the critically acclaimed collab LP Garbology with rap legend and longtime collaborator Aesop Rock, just last year he unleashed his twelfth solo album, The Aux. “For me, as a producer who uses samples, there’s nothing better than free rein. That was so exciting for me. Their vault is the one I’m most familiar with,” he says with a laugh. “Back when I used to go record shopping a lot, I would pretty much buy any KPM record on sight. They were always a huge find at record stores. So to be able to tap into these records with no limitations was really nice. Having no boundaries can be overwhelming when it comes to the creative process. Working with these samples forced me to find middle ground in cases where I’d typically just walk away and look elsewhere.” After hearing Luminous Rubble, you’ll be happy he stuck around.

Introducing "Royal Blu," the highly-anticipated collaborative EP by Blu and Roy Royal. Bursting onto the scene with undeniable chemistry, the dynamic duo from the heart of California delivers an electrifying fusion of boom-bap beats and soulful samples that rede fi ne the essence of West Coast hip-hop. From the moment you hit play, "Royal Blu" captivates with standout tracks like 'The Same OG', 'LA Blue', and the mesmerizing 'The Priceless' featuring Cashus King. Each song showcases Blu's unparalleled lyricism and Roy Royal's masterful production, creating an immersive journey through LA and beyond. Following Blu's acclaimed projects in 2023, including the collaborations with Real Bad Man and Nottz, "Royal Blu" marks a triumphant return to his roots, solidifying his status as one of the West Coast's fi nest MCs. With Roy Royal's soulful chops and Blu's unwavering conviction, every track feels like a passionate ode to their beloved city.

Limited TO 150 Units

From weaving thought-provoking poetics to channeling the spirit of vintage West Coast gangsta rap, acclaimed Los Angeles emcee Blu is a dynamic musical presence, forever evolving and defying expectations. Supremely talented producer and musician Shafiq Husayn has a similarly diverse skill set, with a storied history as a member of Sa-Ra Creative Partners and solo production credits for top artists across the musical spectrum, from Erykah Badu to Ice-T to Anderson .Paak to Jurassic 5 and more. After linking up for the mixtape The Blueprint back in 2018, Blu and Shafiq Husayn are reuniting for the new album Out Of The Blue, elevating their collaboration to a new level. "The Blueprint was just me rhyming over some of Shafiq's beats that I found online," Blu explains. "This time we were actually in the studio together. We've been working together since 2008, but this is our first official album." Awash in Shafiq's dense sonic architecture, Out Of The Blue showcases the intricacy of Blu's spiritual street talk while simultaneously delivering a series of bass-heavy L.A. anthems. Entirely produced by Shafiq Husayn (with assistance from Dibia$e on "I'm G (omg)"), the collection features guests MED, Exile, Chuuwee, Thurz, Speed Walton, Jimetta Rose, and Freestyle Fellowship members Myka 9 and Self Jupiter.

From weaving thought-provoking poetics to channeling the spirit of vintage West Coast gangsta rap, acclaimed Los Angeles emcee Blu is a dynamic musical presence, forever evolving and defying expectations. Supremely talented producer and musician Shafiq Husayn has a similarly diverse skill set, with a storied history as a member of Sa-Ra Creative Partners and solo production credits for top artists across the musical spectrum, from Erykah Badu to Ice-T to Anderson .Paak to Jurassic 5 and many more. After linking up for the mixtape The Blueprint back in 2018, Blu and Shafiq Husayn are reuniting for the new album Out Of The Blue, elevating their collaboration to a new level. “The Blueprint was just me rhyming over some of Shafiq's beats that I found online,” Blu explains. “This time we were actually in the studio together. We’ve been working together since 2008, but this is our first official album.” Awash in Shafiq’s dense sonic architecture, Out Of The Blue showcases the intricacy of Blu’s spiritual street talk while simultaneously delivering a series of bass-heavy L.A. anthems. Entirely produced by Shafiq Husayn, the collection features guest appearances by MED, Exile, Chuuwee, Thurz, Speed Walton, Jimetta Rose, and Freestyle Fellowship members Myka 9 and Self Jupiter. “Out Of The Blue is my G-Funk album,” Blu explains. “Big brother Shafiq gave us a master class in production. We just in here being funky and having fun.”

Standard black vinyl edition of "The Toronto Tape" by Bozack Morris, featuring the illest emcees from Toronto.

Deluxe CD edition of "The Toronto Tape" by Bozack Morris housed in jewel cases with Japanese spine wrap obi strips. Featuring the illest emcees from Toronto. Includes 3 bonus tracks not included in the standard edition CD.

Deluxe double vinyl edition of "The Toronto Tape" by Bozack Morris on Iceberg vinyl. Includes second black vinyl disc with bonus tracks.

Deluxe double vinyl edition of "The Toronto Tape" by Bozack Morris on Iceberg vinyl. Includes second black vinyl disc with bonus tracks.

It seemed that if I didn’t somehow repeat the process of greatness, and do so immediately, multiple times away to satisfy playlist and binge watch culture, then I “wasn’t shit”. After a while I was like “nah this doesn’t feel good,… I don’t know if I am finding joy in this”. I would record songs and not release them, obsess over sessions recorded in my home with 30 takes of vocals and wake up only to delete them. When it began to feel right I found solace in an epiphany that I was not obligated to operate at any other wavelength. I am moving on a different type of time, and that doesn’t expire. -Cavalier For heads of a certain time period of NYC hip-hop, Brooklyn born, New Orleans-based rapper and songwriter, Cavalier was the one that got away. The outrageously talented artist whose name and reputation preceded him everywhere you went in the scene. The rapper who everyone knew was so dope that he had to blow, but who never seemed concerned with any of that. The pretty boy draped in Polo who stole every live show with a feather in his hair and a mouth full of gold fronts. The cat so dedicated to his own independence that even indie labels stopped trying to sign him and projects came when they came, but when they came they were undeniable. Cavalier was That guy for a lot of us; a silver-tongued philosopher with an eye for the poignant details of black life and a delivery as effortless as a young Ken Griffey’s swing. All that said, it never really felt like Cav had that moment in the spotlight that we always assumed was coming. After chiseling away through headier cult corners of the NYC hip-hop scene Cavalier was recognized for his memorable co-pilot to Quelle Chris’ 2013 Mello Music debut, Niggas Is Men. The critically acclaimed LP helped propel Quelle Chris into the forefront of indie hip-hop (and also happened to be the first production credits for Messiah Muzik). Cav followed up with his first full length, Chief, which sports a notable Raekwon feature but also early work from producers like Ohbliv and Tall Black Guy. A relocation to New Orleans and partnership with producer/vocalist Iman Omari yielded two more projects: 2015’s Lemonade EP and Private Stock in 2018. Great records all; eagerly sought by collectors and signal boosted by influential media like OkayPlayer, Solange’s Saint Heron, and Pitchfork. Cavalier’s bonafides have never been in question, but his new album Different Type Time feels like a revelation—a sonic suspension bridge between his rich history and the artform’s future. Different Type Time doesn’t sound like the future though, its vibrations are somewhere all their own. It sounds like jazz, like a conversation overheard in roti shop, or a pool hall, or the foyer of your old building on a fall day, front door propped open with a brick. The blues is in there too, and the south—the American South, and the Global South, and South Brooklyn. It’s not that it sounds like the past, but you can hear everything that came before in the thick of the basslines and the yearning of the keys. Different Type Time also doesn’t sound like now, it sounds like Right NOW; the bounce of the lyrics like the staccato of basketball in the park, carried on a spring breeze. Although he doesn’t rap on DTT, Quelle Chris plays a pivotal role; producing eight songs and serving as associate producer/consigliere to Cav throughout the creative process. “There is no time wasted in explaining things when I collaborate with Quelle. He understands the universe I am in and the realities I want to create. He’s in them. And I don’t think I can envision one without him,” Cavalier explains. Messiah Muzik, Wino Willy, Ohbliv, Ahwlee, Child Actor, Fushou and several other producers round out the credits, all lending their talents to the album’s spaciously soulful sound. At the center of all these alchemies is Cavalier, nimbly dancing in and out of pockets like a sidewalk game of jumprope. Different Type Time is a masterclass in this thing we call hip-hop; daring and original, yet always standing deeply rooted in the culture

1. Different Type Time prod. Quelle Chris & Cavalier
2. Custard Spoon prod. Quelle Chris
3. Can’t Leave It Alone feat. Eric Jaye prod. GLassC!ty
4. Come Proper prod. Jacob Rochester
5. Touchtones prod. Aummaah
6. Déjà vu / Tydro ‘97 prod. Messiah Muzik / Quelle Chris
7. Doodoo Damien prod. Quelle Chris
8. Baby I’m Home prod. Wino Willy
9. Yeah Boiii prod. Quelle Chris
10. All Things Considered (prod. Wino Willy
11. Pears (prod. Malik Abdul-Rahmaan
12. Told You (prod. Fushou
13.Badvice (prod. Low Key
14. Think About It feat. Billzegypt prod. Obliv
15. Up From Here / 7th Ward Spyboy prod. Ahwlee / Quelle Chris
16. Manigaults / I Miss Them prod. ruffiankick
17. Lazaroos prod. Vinny Cuzns
18.Bespoke feat. Dominic Minix prod. Hann_11
19. 50 Bags feat. Lord Chilla prod. Child Actor
20. Axiom / My Gawd prod. GLassC!ty / Quelle Chris
21. Flourish prod. Quelle Chris

Imaginary Motion Picture Soundtrack

Following his most commercially and critically successful year to date, Conway the Machine returns with his first full length offering of 2024, “Slant Face Killa.” Long teased as the second half of the chart-topping 2023 album, “won’t HE DO IT,” fans see Conway the Machine embracing his killer instincts on the mic, and doing so with versatility - rapping over the familiar gritty, dark beats fans remember discovering him on during his come up (Milano Nights, Pt. 1) to more unconventional beats, showcasing his ability to adapt and grow (Raw!). With an impressive feature list including Method Man, Raekwon, Joey Bada$$, Larry June, Key Glock, Jay Worthy & more, and production from heavyweight producers such as The Alchemist, Daringer, Conductor Williams, Cardo, Swizz Beatz & more, The Machine illustrates both his reach in today’s rap game, as well as his ability as a tastemaker. Known for consistently delivering quality music for his die-hard fans, The Machine is back to put his stamp on 2024. 2xLP Vinyl, includes Gatefold Jacket.

Limited to 500 copie, only available at HHV! Only 1 per cutomer!

Following his most commercially and critically successful year to date, Conway the Machine returns with his first full length offering of 2024, “Slant Face Killa.” Long teased as the second half of the chart-topping 2023 album, “won’t HE DO IT,” fans see Conway the Machine embracing his killer instincts on the mic, and doing so with versatility - rapping over the familiar gritty, dark beats fans remember discovering him on during his come up (Milano Nights, Pt. 1) to more unconventional beats, showcasing his ability to adapt and grow (Raw!). With an impressive feature list including Method Man, Raekwon, Joey Bada$$, Larry June, Key Glock, Jay Worthy & more, and production from heavyweight producers such as The Alchemist, Daringer, Conductor Williams, Cardo, Swizz Beatz & more, The Machine illustrates both his reach in today’s rap game, as well as his ability as a tastemaker. Known for consistently delivering quality music for his die-hard fans, The Machine is back to put his stamp on 2024. 2xLP Vinyl, includes Gatefold Jacket.

Sick 10 track solo EP from Thunder Jam Alliance artist "Cal-S.K.I." from 1996-1998.

Killer indie flavas for the heads!!!!

Prepare to embark on a sonic odyssey as Crimeapple and Preservation unveil the inaugural chapter of their groundbreaking trilogy with "EL León”. The album's title, a nod to the undisputed king of the jungle, serves as a metaphorical beacon for the unyielding hunger that the lyrical predator has always shown. On this audio hunting expedition, Crimeapple, the lyrical monarch, roars with an intensity that mirrors the lion's ferocity over a wild musical tapestry provided by Preservation, with each track being a testament to the insatiable appetite and predatory instincts needed to navigate the wilderness of today’s music industry, a game that both artists have never bowed down to but always dominated from the outside in. Crimeapple has always proven to be a leader of the pride, with the non-stop grind he’s been putting into his Manteca imprint and with legendary collaborations with producers such as DJ Muggs and DJ Skizz carving his name as one of the prominent stars in the game today. On the production side, Preservation’s musical journey, whether with long-time collaborator Yasiin Bey (fka Mos Def), or as one half of Dr. Yen Lo with Brooklyn emcee Ka, or through legendary collaborations with the likes of billy woods, MF Doom, Roc Marci, RZA, Sean Price, Raekwon and countless others, have made him an iconic name in musical alchemy. As the trilogy begins, "EL León" stands as the beginning of a new hunting season for the two, where Crimeapple and Preservation are sure to transcend boundaries and reign supreme.

Prepare to embark on a sonic odyssey as Crimeapple and Preservation unveil the inaugural chapter of their groundbreaking trilogy with "EL León”. The album's title, a nod to the undisputed king of the jungle, serves as a metaphorical beacon for the unyielding hunger that the lyrical predator has always shown. On this audio hunting expedition, Crimeapple, the lyrical monarch, roars with an intensity that mirrors the lion's ferocity over a wild musical tapestry provided by Preservation, with each track being a testament to the insatiable appetite and predatory instincts needed to navigate the wilderness of today’s music industry, a game that both artists have never bowed down to but always dominated from the outside in. Crimeapple has always proven to be a leader of the pride, with the non-stop grind he’s been putting into his Manteca imprint and with legendary collaborations with producers such as DJ Muggs and DJ Skizz carving his name as one of the prominent stars in the game today. On the production side, Preservation’s musical journey, whether with long-time collaborator Yasiin Bey (fka Mos Def), or as one half of Dr. Yen Lo with Brooklyn emcee Ka, or through legendary collaborations with the likes of billy woods, MF Doom, Roc Marci, RZA, Sean Price, Raekwon and countless others, have made him an iconic name in musical alchemy. As the trilogy begins, "EL León" stands as the beginning of a new hunting season for the two, where Crimeapple and Preservation are sure to transcend boundaries and reign supreme.

The foundation stone for DC+ (lp) was laid in spring 2020 during the lockdown. The studio in the Deltaareal in Langendorf near Solothurn, Switzerland became a place of refuge and making music together became a creative outlet.The two Musicians often met by chance for sound sessions in which the first sounds of the instrumental LP were created. Electronic and yet acoustic. Relaxing and yet driving. Sometimes abstract, sometimes straightforward. With influences of jazz, hip-hop, soul, funk and electronic sounds. In collaboration with Waynemaster Studio in Bern, an album with a warm, mellow sound and high dynamics was created which stands out pleasantly from the current "loudness war" of over-compressed productions. Two Artists, close Friends of many years and masters of their trade have been enlisted to design the album cover. With the release of DC+ (lp) in winter 2023, Delta Collective is setting a first sign and inviting the listener to immerse themselves in to their cosmos.

Turntablist and producer DJ Crum teams up with mic fiend Napoleon Da Legend for this underground joint. This release includes the original version, instrumental, acapella and a remix by Mono:Massive.

Atlantic Rap Vol.1 is the first volume of DK’s forthcoming compilation, a three-volume showcase of brilliant lyricists from North America’s underground that bumps to the sounds of DK’s knocking and imaginative boom-bap. Enlisting MCs from rap capitals like New York (ufo Fev, Wais P), Detroit (Frank Nitt, Phat Kat, E-Fav), and Canada (Ghettosocks, Saukrates), DK scores their vivid verses with his fusion of crackling samples, analog synths, and progressive instrumentation. Each beat flattens time, conjuring the warmth and grit of ’90s production while moving into the future with lush musicality. DK pairs every suite with the perfect narrator, established and rising rappers who deliver grimy street memoirs and intricate verbal assaults. Atlantic Rap Vol. 1 is a highlight reel from the long-celebrated and the next to blow up.

"Audio EDibles" by Edo.G and Tone Spliff is a flavorful boom bap hip-hop collaboration that serves up a delectable mix of insightful lyrics and head nodding beats. Edo.G's seasoned rhymes effortlessly blend with Tone Spliff's production, creating an album that's both lyrically rich and sonically satisfying.

The tracks are a feast for the ears, offering a diverse menu of thought-provoking themes and head-nodding rhythms, making "Audio EDibles" a must-listen for hip-hop enthusiasts.

"Audio EDibles" by Edo.G and Tone Spliff is a flavorful boom bap hip-hop collaboration that serves up a delectable mix of insightful lyrics and head nodding beats. Edo.G's seasoned rhymes effortlessly blend with Tone Spliff's production, creating an album that's both lyrically rich and sonically satisfying.

The tracks are a feast for the ears, offering a diverse menu of thought-provoking themes and head-nodding rhythms, making "Audio EDibles" a must-listen for hip-hop enthusiasts.

"Audio EDibles" by Edo.G and Tone Spliff is a flavorful boom bap hip-hop collaboration that serves up a delectable mix of insightful lyrics and head nodding beats. Edo.G's seasoned rhymes effortlessly blend with Tone Spliff's production, creating an album that's both lyrically rich and sonically satisfying.

The tracks are a feast for the ears, offering a diverse menu of thought-provoking themes and head-nodding rhythms, making "Audio EDibles" a must-listen for hip-hop enthusiasts.

In 2006, the slight buzz of a Brooklyn band called El Michels Affair started to sound a bit more like a swarm of killer bees when their instrumental rendition of Wu-Tang Clan’s “C.R.E.A.M.” was released as a 7” vinyl single. The band’s namesake Leon Michels and his production partner Jeff Silverman dropped the single on their boutique label called Truth & Soul, and it created such commotion that it would spawn an entire album of Wu-based covers. In honor of the 15th anniversary of that LP— “Enter The 37th Chamber”—the single is now getting its first vinyl repress in years. “C.R.E.A.M.” is featured on Side A, with its prominent guitars and powerful horns complementing the signature baseline and unforgettable piano hook that practically defined an era of New York hip hop. The B-side “Glaciers of Ice” offers a deeper, melancholic interpretation of the hard-driving “Cuban Linx” banger, with a mood consistent to the A-side, as the drums take a comfortable backseat to the melodic guitars and punchy horn lines. Originally released in 2009, El Michels Affair’s “Enter The 37th Chamber” LP on Fat Beats Records is celebrating its 15th Anniversary in 2024.

After scoring a surprise hit in 2006’s red-hot 7” funk market with their cover of “C.R.E.A.M.,” El Michels Affair quickly turned around another smash 7” double-single of re-imagined takes of the Wu-Tang Clan. “Duel of the Iron Mics” sees the hypnotic piano hook of the “Liquid Swords”-classic elevated to intriguing heights with dramatic strings and Catch the blast of a hype version on the b-side, where “Bring Da Ruckus” is brought to life in imaginative ways not hinted at on the bulletproof original. The raw sample stabs and sub-bass of the stripped-down Wu-Tang stunner are replaced with mind-bending bass notes, and the re-played organ hook turned way up. Both of these tracks would eventually feature prominently on El Michels Affair’s landmark LP “Enter the 37th Chamber,” celebrating its 15th Anniversary in 2024.

Originally released on Fat Beats Records in 2009, El Michels Affair’s landmark album “Enter the 37th Chamber” is celebrating its 15th Anniversary in 2024. Featuring reinterpretations of hip hop anthems from the Wu-Tang Clan, the album took stripped-down, raw hip hop bangers and flipped them into richly-arranged instrumentals. Cover versions of tracks such as “C.R.E.A.M.” and “Can It All Be So Simple” instantly sounded as vintage as the records that RZA had sampled to create the originals, with the familiar melodies and driving rhythms elevated by expertly-arranged horns and strings. The gritty and bottom-heavy style of these analog recordings—dubbed “Cinematic Soul”—has been both widely celebrated and often imitated. El Michels Affair namesake Leon Michels has since gone on to produce for and collaborate with artists as diverse as Adele, Black Thought, Lana Del Rey, and The Carters (Beyonce & Jay-Z). Now 15 years from its initial release, “Enter the 37th Chamber” has proven to be one of the true classic instrumental albums of its era, every bit as enduring as the music it had meant to pay homage to.

Off of the backs of the 2006 release a pair of 7-inch singles called the Shaolin Series, El Michels Affair would eventually drop the LP “Enter the 37th Chamber” in 2009, which covered classics by the Wu-Tang Clan. To commemorate the 15th anniversary of the landmark full-length, Fat Beats Records is not only re-releasing the original 45s in the Shaolin Series, but will be adding to the series with choice cuts from the LP. First up is “Shimmy Shimmy Ya,” a hauntingly unforgettable take on ODB’s classic single, with blaring horns and a chorus of children to sing the iconic hook. The b-side features a darker, moodier interpretation of Raekwon’s “Incarcerated Scarfaces,” perfectly representing El Michels Affair’s slow-riding style dubbed “Cinematic Soul.”

Toronto Producer Elaquent is back with an all-star lineup of underground bubblers inlcuding Ivan Ave, Chester Watson and Skyzoo. The new album is cosmopolitan jazz rap - smooth production with velvet lyricists from around the globe.

In Emanuele Triglia's 'Moon Kin' we embark on a captivating journey where the worlds of Contemporary Jazz, Hip Hop, and Global Rhythms converge in a seamless tapestry of sound. Inspired by the likes of Karriem Riggins, Herbie Hancock, J Dilla this album pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz while embracing the raw energy of hip hop and the diverse textures of worldwide music.

At its core, "Moon Kin" is a celebration of the synchronicity between musicians and listeners, where every note, beat, and rhythm feels like a shared experience. Each track serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of musical expression, weaving together intricate melodies and infectious grooves that resonate with the soul. From the hypnotic rhythms of the drums to the sultry melodies of the trumpet, the album is a testament to the power of organic instrumentation. Layers of live instrumentation create a rich sonic landscape, where every instrument has its voice and contributes to the overall narrative of the music. "Moon Kin" is more than just an album—it's a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create moments that transcend any musical language or culture. With its innovative blend of Jazz, Hip hop, and World Music influences, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners everywhere.

don't look back (feat. escalone) afterlife piece of peace (Soldier partII) night moves desert storm identity above justice

Like a thief in the night, and almost 4 for years after his critically acclaimed full-length album Kabul Fire Vol 2, beat virtuoso Farhot has returned to the (crime) scene with his latest all-instrumental record "stealing from cats".

While on his last LP, he took listeners on a journey to his birthplace Kabul, he is now taking them along as he goes out stealing sounds from fellow musicians (label mates) and dusty Jazz archives and. Reminiscent of that time when Blue Note invited Madlib into their catacombs to create the seminal "Shades of Blue" LP, this slow-paced record sees Farhot eclectically fusing Jazz samples with downtempo, instrumental hip-hop art. From the hazy, chopped vocal samples of the intro tune "selfish" to the dreamy closer "they need me", this 12-song masterpiece is as much an homage to the virtuosity of Jazz cats like Silvan Strauss as it is to the fine art of sampling that Farhot cheekily calls stealing.

Joeseph Hill und Gavin Sense haben ein Monster aus Papier erschaffen. Die Passagiere sind auf einen vernebelten Flug mit der Wuppertaler Schwebebahn eingeladen. Am Fenster ziehen mystische Bilder und Szenerien vorbei, Orangenbäume, depressive Kids am ewigen Brunnen, trinken vergiftetes Wasser, machen sich Sorgen um die Welt, träumen von Größe, bleiben unter sich und fahren mit Norman Gein durch das Niemandsland. Auf der Meeresbrücke steigt Earl Grey kurz dazu und Teebeutel den Beat bis zum Kammerflimmern. Ein schwummrig - schöner Trip in Richtung Melancholie wurde hier gebucht. Einschalten. Abschalten

It gets flavorful! 'Humpty Breaks' by Generator, where crunchy beats meet finger-smudged samplers! This eclectic beat tape serves up a mix of old and new tracks, showcasing the evolution of the producer's sound while paying homage to the early days of rap beats.

Guttr is not only a collective of respected legendary Hip Hop emcees and up and coming artists, but also a mindset. Guttr is a collective, and in a sense, Rap’s first unionization. The entire project was produced by Havoc from Mobb Deep and spearheaded by Executive Producer, Storm. This debut project is front-manned by West Coast renowned lyricist Ras Kass and Philly's newest buzz, R.J. Payne. The two share sharp bars along with a star studded list of stellar guest features. With Havoc supplying the entire album's soundscape, the music is respectfully reminiscent of the classic Mobb Deep albums we all know and love. Having a West Coast lyrical perspective by Ras Kass on this production is like having Kendrick Lamar on a QTip track. This combination creates a sound that is different, unique, and magical. To quote Ras Kass, "We all miss P(rodigy) and that classic Mobb Deep Energy, there is no replacing that or him, period! I did want to pay homage to them and channel that vibe. Havoc being on board to set the musical canvas on an entire album for brothers to paint these bars has been the opportunity of a lifetime." Coming in hot with 11 tracks of straight up Bars, this album marks a once-in-a-lifetime collab that has been years in the works.

Limited to 50 copies with sticker cover

If it sounds unconventional, that’s because it is. For his debut album, producer/DJ/music supervisor J.PERIOD has created a musical storybook. Set to be released in chapters, each entry stands as its own musical event while fitting together as part of a larger story. The first, Story To Tell (Chapter One), with cover art by Dan Lish includes the lead single “All In Your Head” featuring Dave Chappelle, Black Thought, and Tiffany Gouche. The three are part of an all-star cast that also includes such disparate artists as Lin-Manuel Miranda and Joell Ortiz. Renowned for his mixtape work with Nas, Lauryn Hill, C.L. Smooth, and others, J.PERIOD produced Story To Tell (Chapter One) while juggling his work as Music Supervisor for the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets, holding a founding seat on The Kennedy Center’s Hip Hop Culture Council, and working on other musical projects, of course. - Flood Magazine

DJ/Producer and musical storyteller J.PERIOD (The Hamilton Mixtape, Black Thought, The Live Mixtape) is back with his highly-anticipated Story To Tell (Chapter Two), a sonic adventure through Hip Hop, Soul, R&B and Reggae featuring performances from Andra Day, Aloe Blacc, Joss Stone, Kardinal Offishall, Estelle, Mumu Fresh, Camp and Mayda Del Valle; narration from Dave Chappelle; co-production from Rance Dopson (1500 or Nothin), J.Mo, DJ Khalil, Tall Black Guy and Stro Elliot; and original illustrations from acclaimed artist, Dan Lish.