Ill Adrenaline 29 Items

Calgary's own DJ Cosm has been a student of hip-hop culture from an early age. He has hosted the campus radio mixshow, The Main Ingredient (fka Mental Illness) on Cjsw 90.9 FM Calgary since 1998, and is the DJ half of the accomplished rap duo, Dragon Fli Empire. DJ/producer Cosm showcases both his golden era roots and appreciation for modern boom bap production on his latest 7” release, featuring three bangers from his CD/digital only album, "Natural Within". Cosm lends the perfect sinister mood for Daniel Son and Saipher Soze to get busy on the hard-hitting joint, "Rome". Halfcut and Ghettosocks join forces for the funky boom bap banger "Leave the Bells" with DJ Cosm providing his signature scratches. On the b-side track "All or Nothing", Cosm laces a booming break that unleashes lyrical carnage from Adam Bomb, Mercules, Fortified Mind, and Halfcut.

Ill Adrenaline Records is excited to announce a brand new 7" vinyl from critically acclaimed rapper Awon and UK producer Elements. The A side features "Game Matters" with head nodding soulful production highlighting Awon's raw uncut rhymes, blended together with a catchy scratch hook. Track 2, "Paper Off My Pager" combines Elements upbeat jazz infused production with Awon's vivid quick fire lyricism. Awon, "The 90s were really grimy and rigid, it was a different thought process of survival, getting money happened to be a part of that. While it sounds celebratory Paper off my Pager is really a reflection of bad decisions on top of bad decisions that led me to rap for a living. The celebration is that I survived." The B side features a golden age inspired Elements remix for "Game Matters" which shines a new light on Awon's braggadocio flows and showcases razor sharp cuts over melancholic jazz piano and upright bass. Awon has racked up millions of streams and immense exposure as an independent artist, with a stellar catalogue of underground hip hop classics. He recently starred in "Underdogs", a documentary that chronicles his journey with Don't Sleep Records, the label he founded with production partner Phoniks, winning best music documentary at Dtla film festival and streaming now on Netflix. Elements production placements have seen his music covered by tastemaker publications like Lyrical Lemonade, Afropunk, Billboard magazine and NPR music. The pair work together to create a unique sound on "Game Matters" and "Paper off my Pager" available for the first time on vinyl.

Ill Adrenaline Records co-founder and Brick City native Beneficence drops his seventh album entitled "Stellar Mind", entirely produced by longtime collaborator and Boston producer Confidence (of Rashad & Confidence). "Stellar Mind" is the follow up to Benef's underground smash hit album "Basement Chemistry" (2016) that included an array of bangers with high caliber guest appearances by Inspectah Deck (of Wu-Tang Clan), Masta Ace, MC Eiht, and many more. More than four years in the making, "Stellar Mind" takes a deep journey and boom bap ride with flawless production courtesy of Confidence, the man with the golden sound. Benef’s & Conf’s latest installment is a mastery of beats, rhymes, jazz loops, and soul at its apex. With slick vocals and blue-collar aesthetics, it gives the listener head-nodding street anthems and stays true to its roots. 16 tracks strong, the album takes a more personal approach and drops around the same time as Benef's book "Concrete Soul: Memoir & Making of Ill Adrenaline Records". In the intro (Hypnosis) the close Artifacts affiliate rhymes with conviction, "many failed to see the vision, homey who are we kidding, breads with Goldman Sachs, forget the hands of a vixen". Another banger is the infectious horn laced "Travelling Man" where Benef runs down a list of moments in time. "DB Coppers hi jack, John Coltrane's tenor sax, the lost notebook that Eminem hoping to get back, the final destination that we all will end up at". The album's first single "My Way" features Masta Ace and Phantasm (of Cella Dwellas), revealing their perspectives of choice options in life and music. Beneficence & Confidence is a dream team that boom-bap connoisseurs have been patiently eager to hear. Along with slick intelligent rhymes, thought-provoking concepts, and sharp & precise cuts handled by 12 Finger Dan, DJ Grazzhoppa, and DJ Kaos (rip), the LP comes equipped with an impressive guest list of rhyme slingers to deliver a long-awaited gem for underground hip-hop fans around the globe. Features include Masta Ace, Keith Murray, Ras Kass, AG (of D.I.T.C.), Chubb Rock, Lord Tariq, Craig G, El Da Sensei (of The Artifacts), Phantasm (of Cella Dwellas), Ali Vegas, Shabaam Sahdeeq, Wordsworth, Queen Herawin (of Jugganots), Truth Enola, and soul singer Melinda Camille. The thoroughbred soul survivors are back for the people.

Limited to 100 copies. Underground hip-hop legends Spectac & Amiri are back with their latest offering, "Beautiful Soul", set for release through Ill Adrenaline Records. Known for their signature jazzy, soulful soundscapes and introspective lyricism, this album builds on the success of their critically acclaimed project Soul Beautiful. Once again, Amiri's soulful production lays the foundation for Spectac's sharp, reflective rhymes, proving the duo's chemistry is as potent as ever.

Amiri has long been praised for his ability to blend golden-era vibes with modern production techniques, crafting beats that seamlessly combine jazz, soul, and boom bap. Over the years, his work has earned a respected place in the underground scene, producing for a wide array of artists while staying true to his unique sound.

On the mic, Spectac is a seasoned emcee from South Carolina with roots in North Carolina, known for his witty wordplay and freestyle prowess. With a career spanning over a decade, his lyricism often explores personal experiences and societal issues, making his verses both relatable and thought-provoking. Together, the duo has earned the respect of underground hip-hop heads globally, delivering consistently high-quality music that blends nostalgia with fresh creativity.

Having worked with the likes of 9th Wonder, Big Daddy Kane, and A Tribe Called Quest, Spectac & Amiri are most definitely veterans in the game. Their releases have always been rooted in the spirit of true-school hip-hop, which has enabled them to maintain their underground presence for decades.

The lead single from Beautiful Soul, titled "Yeah Y’all", features their long-time friend and collaborator DJ Shakim, who adds his signature blend of scratches and cuts over Amiri’s dreamy instrumental. Spectac's effortless flow shines with lines like, "…me and Amiri not the greatest but close enough, a stone throws away from a J-Dilla donut…"

With tracks like "When We Do It", "Sermons for Bentleys", "Got a Feeling", and "Wake Up!", the duo dives into themes ranging from reflections on their personal journeys to commentary on the political and social challenges they've witnessed throughout their careers. As always, the album serves a balanced mix of lyrical depth and soulful vibes, offering something for both new listeners and longtime fans.

For those familiar with Spectac & Amiri, Beautiful Soul is a return to form, delivering the kind of lush, thoughtful hip-hop that's become their trademark. And for newcomers? Consider this your backstage pass to one of the best-kept secrets in the underground. Get ready, because once you hit play, you're not just listening — you’re vibing with legends.

The debut collaboration by Harlem, New York City raised, Ugandan born, award winning hip-hop creative Emma Lee M.C. and decorated German producer Roccwell is a potent offering of globally creative proportions. Merging her bold, flowful vocals and piercingly imaginary lyricism with his smooth, classic, world-renowned "boom bap" production over seven tracks, the two who met during a pandemic aimed to stifle their artistry have used the "new normals" as opportunity to create new energy, tell new stories and re-balance tastes in the culture.

On the lead single “Like It’s 93” featuring hip-hop legend Masta Ace, listeners are treated to a unique twist on nostalgia. Emma Lee personifies hip-hop by lyrically describing a dysfunctional but loving relationship using over 40 classic rap album titles all released in the year 1993, with Masta Ace responding metaphorically in a classic rebuttal. The track rolls in with a dreamy soundscape over Roccwell's signature snare drum spine, lifts and waves with Emma Lee's softly layered vocals in the hooks, and ends with a sonic collage of reflective cuts by DJ LP2 reminding us why we fell in love with hip-hop. As mentioned from "Digable Planets to Doggystyle," this track is a witness and poetic questioning of a pivotal time in music.

The follow-up single "Cravings & Withdrawals" with hip-hop legend Bahamadia holds its own as one of the smoothest rap duets put to wax in a long time. As Roccwell riffs the beat like a spacey and jazzy interlude, an elite skill level of emceeing is on display by two generational talents unapologetically pouring onto the track. The dream duo gives us an unbeatable breather during the hooks which are elevated by an adaptation of classic neo-soul R&B, asking whether listeners are "craving something real?" Clever cuts by DJ LP2 once again punctuate the odyssey and are sure to please most music heads.

“Chocolate Bars” by Emma Lee M.C. & Roccwell stays true to its rooted theme and includes a few musical twists, start to finish. From its concept, choice of instruments, variation, undeniable lyricism, sounds and messaging, it creates both curiosity and satisfaction, and leaves hip-hop lovers surely wanting more.

Limited to 100 copies. Exclusively available at HHV. The debut collaboration by Harlem, New York City raised, Ugandan born, award winning hip-hop creative Emma Lee M.C. and decorated German producer Roccwell is a potent offering of globally creative proportions. Merging her bold, flowful vocals and piercingly imaginary lyricism with his smooth, classic, world-renowned "boom bap" production over seven tracks, the two who met during a pandemic aimed to stifle their artistry have used the "new normals" as opportunity to create new energy, tell new stories and re-balance tastes in the culture.

On the lead single “Like It’s 93” featuring hip-hop legend Masta Ace, listeners are treated to a unique twist on nostalgia. Emma Lee personifies hip-hop by lyrically describing a dysfunctional but loving relationship using over 40 classic rap album titles all released in the year 1993, with Masta Ace responding metaphorically in a classic rebuttal. The track rolls in with a dreamy soundscape over Roccwell's signature snare drum spine, lifts and waves with Emma Lee's softly layered vocals in the hooks, and ends with a sonic collage of reflective cuts by DJ LP2 reminding us why we fell in love with hip-hop. As mentioned from "Digable Planets to Doggystyle," this track is a witness and poetic questioning of a pivotal time in music.

The follow-up single "Cravings & Withdrawals" with hip-hop legend Bahamadia holds its own as one of the smoothest rap duets put to wax in a long time. As Roccwell riffs the beat like a spacey and jazzy interlude, an elite skill level of emceeing is on display by two generational talents unapologetically pouring onto the track. The dream duo gives us an unbeatable breather during the hooks which are elevated by an adaptation of classic neo-soul R&B, asking whether listeners are "craving something real?" Clever cuts by DJ LP2 once again punctuate the odyssey and are sure to please most music heads.

“Chocolate Bars” by Emma Lee M.C. & Roccwell stays true to its rooted theme and includes a few musical twists, start to finish. From its concept, choice of instruments, variation, undeniable lyricism, sounds and messaging, it creates both curiosity and satisfaction, and leaves hip-hop lovers surely wanting more.

Limited to 100 copies. Another great exclusive for HHV customers.

Ill Adrenaline Records is excited to announce a brand new 7" vinyl from critically acclaimed rapper Awon and UK producer Elements. The A side features "Game Matters" with head nodding soulful production highlighting Awon's raw uncut rhymes, blended together with a catchy scratch hook. Track 2, "Paper Off My Pager" combines Elements of upbeat jazz infused production with Awon's vivid quick fire lyricism. Awon, "The 90s were really grimy and rigid, it was a different thought process of survival, getting money happened to be a part of that. While it sounds celebratory, Paper off my Pager is really a reflection of bad decisions on top of bad decisions that led me to rap for a living. The celebration is that I survived." The B side features a golden age inspired Elements remix for "Game Matters" which shines a new light on Awon's braggadocio flows and showcases razor sharp cuts over melancholic jazz piano and upright bass. Awon has racked up millions of streams and immense exposure as an independent artist, with a stellar catalogue of underground hip hop classics. He recently starred in "Underdogs", a documentary that chronicles his journey with Don't Sleep Records, the label he founded with production partner Phoniks, winning best music documentary at Dtla film festival and streaming now on Netflix. Elements production placements have seen his music covered by tastemaker publications like Lyrical Lemonade, Afropunk, Billboard magazine and NPR music. The pair work together to create a unique sound on "Game Matters" and "Paper off my Pager" available for the first time on vinyl.

Red wax very close to NM.

White Marbled Vinyl.
Ships in a generic black sleeve with hype sticker.

Limited to 100 copies.

Ill Adrenaline Records is excited to announce a brand new 7" vinyl from critically acclaimed rapper Awon and UK producer Elements. The A side features "Game Matters" with head nodding soulful production highlighting Awon's raw uncut rhymes, blended together with a catchy scratch hook. Track 2, "Paper Off My Pager" combines Elements of upbeat jazz infused production with Awon's vivid quick fire lyricism. Awon, "The 90s were really grimy and rigid, it was a different thought process of survival, getting money happened to be a part of that. While it sounds celebratory, Paper off my Pager is really a reflection of bad decisions on top of bad decisions that led me to rap for a living. The celebration is that I survived." The B side features a golden age inspired Elements remix for "Game Matters" which shines a new light on Awon's braggadocio flows and showcases razor sharp cuts over melancholic jazz piano and upright bass. Awon has racked up millions of streams and immense exposure as an independent artist, with a stellar catalogue of underground hip hop classics. He recently starred in "Underdogs", a documentary that chronicles his journey with Don't Sleep Records, the label he founded with production partner Phoniks, winning best music documentary at Dtla film festival and streaming now on Netflix. Elements production placements have seen his music covered by tastemaker publications like Lyrical Lemonade, Afropunk, Billboard magazine and NPR music. The pair work together to create a unique sound on "Game Matters" and "Paper off my Pager" available for the first time on vinyl.

Strictly limited edition of 100 copies on coke clear vinyl!
Only one copy per customer!
The Legion (Molecules, Chucky Smash & Cee-Low) is back with some more Bronx rawness for your ears! Following the success of their "Lost Tapes" album from 2014, the re-release of the underground classic "Theme + Echo = Krill" LP, plus the Molecules & Showbiz "A Bronx Tale" EP from last year, the D.I.T.C. affiliates continue to keep the buzz going surrounding their upcoming full-length album entitled "Three The Bronx Way". "1980 Something" and "Heard We Quit" are two certified bangers recorded at the infamous D.I.T.C. Studios.

Limited edition vinyl!
The Legion (Molecules, Chucky Smash & Cee-Low) is back with some more Bronx rawness for your ears! Following the success of their "Lost Tapes" album from 2014, the re-release of the underground classic "Theme + Echo = Krill" LP, plus the Molecules & Showbiz "A Bronx Tale" EP from last year, the D.I.T.C. affiliates continue to keep the buzz going surrounding their upcoming full-length album entitled "Three The Bronx Way". "1980 Something" and "Heard We Quit" are two certified bangers recorded at the infamous D.I.T.C. Studios.

Strictly limited edition of 150 copies on coke clear vinyl!
Only one copy per customer!
Parallax is a conscious rapper/producer from Winchester, UK. Being an East London native since a teenager he has been immersed and driven to push the art form, focusing on powerful lyrical content and hard-hitting beats with a jazzy and soulful touch. He has already received credit from legendary artists such as Raekwon, Afu-Ra, La Coka Nostra and Lewis Parker as well as supporting artists such as Rodney P & Skitz, Skinnyman, Split Prophets, and many more.
"Depth Perception" is Parallax's debut EP. The talented MC explains: "It's been a long time in the making and Depth Perception displays a benchmark for my lyricism, production & engineering. This body of work represents my independence as a solo artist. I see it as an introduction into the years of hard work that I've put in to develop my craft and deliver a quality boom bap release. Depth Perception embodies my vision and determination to represent real hip-hop from the UK on an international scale. Big shouts to all the fans who've been supporting my movement!"
Self-released on CD-only back in 2014, Ill Adrenaline Records is proud and grateful for the chance to give this little underground gem a proper vinyl treatment. Stay tuned for Parallax's follow-up full length coming later this year.

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

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

Strictly limited edition of 200 copies on clear red vinyl!
Only one copy per customer!
French beatmaker Odweeyne is back with #3 and #4 of his grimey Blacklist series, this time teaming up with Conway (The Machine), one of the dopest newcomers and latest signees on Eminem's Shady Records, as well as Detroit's own Nolan The Ninja. Dope SP1200 production on both tracks.
Hailing from Paris, France, Odweeyne is a passionate DJ, producer, crate-digger, hip-hop enthusiast and vinyl lover.
After years of turntablism including DJing for various artists and witnessing countless studio sessions, Odweeyne decided to put all his energy into sample based production. As a self-described "child of the 90's" Odweeyne's weapons of choice are classic production tools such as the SP1200, S950, E6400 Ultra, and MPC 2000XL. With musical influences ranging from K-Def and Lord Finesse to DJ Muggs and Madlib, Odweeyne's musical outcome is all about creating hard-hitting, warm, dusty, and hypnotic sounding bangers constructed with the help of dope samples and rare breaks.
After collaborating with a long list of artists (Awon, Unknown Mizery, Reak, Don Streat, etc.) and putting out the first two installments of his Blacklist series (featuring Sadat X and AG of D.I.T.C.) on his own indie label So Cracked Lab, the French beatmaker is back with #3 and #4 of his grimey series, this time teaming up with Conway (The Machine), one of the dopest newcomers and latest signees on Eminem's Shady Records, as well as Detroit's own Nolan The Ninja.

Limited edition vinyl!
French beatmaker Odweeyne is back with #3 and #4 of his grimey Blacklist series, this time teaming up with Conway (The Machine), one of the dopest newcomers and latest signees on Eminem's Shady Records, as well as Detroit's own Nolan The Ninja. Dope SP1200 production on both tracks.
Hailing from Paris, France, Odweeyne is a passionate DJ, producer, crate-digger, hip-hop enthusiast and vinyl lover.
After years of turntablism including DJing for various artists and witnessing countless studio sessions, Odweeyne decided to put all his energy into sample based production. As a self-described "child of the 90's" Odweeyne's weapons of choice are classic production tools such as the SP1200, S950, E6400 Ultra, and MPC 2000XL. With musical influences ranging from K-Def and Lord Finesse to DJ Muggs and Madlib, Odweeyne's musical outcome is all about creating hard-hitting, warm, dusty, and hypnotic sounding bangers constructed with the help of dope samples and rare breaks.
After collaborating with a long list of artists (Awon, Unknown Mizery, Reak, Don Streat, etc.) and putting out the first two installments of his Blacklist series (featuring Sadat X and AG of D.I.T.C.) on his own indie label So Cracked Lab, the French beatmaker is back with #3 and #4 of his grimey series, this time teaming up with Conway (The Machine), one of the dopest newcomers and latest signees on Eminem's Shady Records, as well as Detroit's own Nolan The Ninja.

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

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

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

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

Some emcees have preserved the gift of quality over time and Phantasm is one of these emcees. In the 90's and early 2000 Phantasm and then partner UG were signed to almighty Loud Records as Cella Dwellas (later just The Dwellas) along with several heavyweight acts on the label's roster including Wu-Tang Clan, Big Pun, Xzibit, M.O.P, and Mobb Deep. Phantasm & UG's debut album "Realms 'N Reality" (1996) debuted at #160 on the Billboard 200 charts and was mainly produced by underground mainstay beatsmith Nick Wiz. The Flatbush duo was also featured on fellow Brooklyn artist Masta Ace's classic album "Sittin' On Chrome". The Dwellas followed up with a dope second album ("The Last Shall Be First") in 2000 which featured Large Professor, Cocoa Brovaz, Organized Konfusion, Inspectah Deck (of Wu-Tang Clan), and many more.
Phantasm recently teamed up with Ill Adrenaline Records to release a timeless single ("Louder Than Ever") produced by Germany's own SP1200 maestros 12 Finger Dan and B-Base (aka Soulbrotha). Complete with a true school feel and a dope scratch hook, Phan executes with a sharp delivery with lines like "...had to pen them bars, got out the street life had to mend them scars. Praise God or Allah whoever sent us Nas." Tall Man Phan is back to basics on his latest release.

Some emcees have preserved the gift of quality over time and Phantasm is one of these emcees. In the 90's and early 2000 Phantasm and then partner UG were signed to almighty Loud Records as Cella Dwellas (later just The Dwellas) along with several heavyweight acts on the label's roster including Wu-Tang Clan, Big Pun, Xzibit, M.O.P, and Mobb Deep. Phantasm & UG's debut album "Realms 'N Reality" (1996) debuted at #160 on the Billboard 200 charts and was mainly produced by underground mainstay beatsmith Nick Wiz. The Flatbush duo was also featured on fellow Brooklyn artist Masta Ace's classic album "Sittin' On Chrome". The Dwellas followed up with a dope second album ("The Last Shall Be First") in 2000 which featured Large Professor, Cocoa Brovaz, Organized Konfusion, Inspectah Deck (of Wu-Tang Clan), and many more.
Phantasm recently teamed up with Ill Adrenaline Records to release a timeless single ("Louder Than Ever") produced by Germany's own SP1200 maestros 12 Finger Dan and B-Base (aka Soulbrotha). Complete with a true school feel and a dope scratch hook, Phan executes with a sharp delivery with lines like "...had to pen them bars, got out the street life had to mend them scars. Praise God or Allah whoever sent us Nas." Tall Man Phan is back to basics on his latest release.

The emergence of hip-hop out of Queens, NY has proven to be timeless. From Run DMC, LL Cool J, and Kool G Rap to A Tribe Called Quest, Large Professor, Organized Konfusion, and Mobb Deep there's never been a shortage of dynamic music from the borough. Longtime observer and emcee of the culture Truth is set to release his debut album "From Ashes To Kingdome Come" on Ill Adrenaline Records. A few years back Truth formed an alliance with PF Cuttin (of Blahzay Blahzay) and together the Queens emcee and the Brooklyn producer/DJ/engineer are ready to release a typical 90's throwback sounding full-length that carries PF's thumbprint throughout. On the 18-track strong heater Truth picks up various topics, ranging from life experiences to repping hip-hop culture - always showcasing his passionate and sharp lyrical rhyme skills. Entirely recorded and mixed by PF Cuttin, the album's raw and dusty sound stays true to the streets, including features from heavyweights such as the late Sean Price, O.C., and AG (of D.I.T.C.). Newcomer JK1 The Supernova handles the majority of production along with veteran producers PF Cuttin, Psycho Les (of The Beatnuts), Da Beatminerz, and DJ Doom. Containing plenty of dope scratches mainly executed by PF Cuttin and Rock Steady's own DJ JS-1, the album's uniqueness remains on one accord with the boom bap sound and origin which is a rarity in today's music.

New York underground veterans Q Ball & Curt Cazal (QNC) make a long overdue return with their new 7" single "At The Same Time" b/w "Demo".

The long awaited follow-up by uMaNg & B.B.Z Darney to their critically acclaimed 2014 label debut, The Black Rose Certificate, is finally here! This album is the undoing of the mind, the breaking down to be built-up again from scratch. It's said thoughts can become a very dangerous thing if left unguided, often leading us into a seemingly inescapable void, crippling the mind in the process. It takes deliberate, purposeful shifting through dedication and effort to rehabilitate back to form. This album is also a celebration of defying the odds, reaffirming one's identity through thought, action, and music as uMaNg conceptually & lyrcially goes IN as never before over B.B.Z Darney's lush, melodic, hot & cold, string-driven production. The listening of this album is not only for the enjoyment of hip-hop, reminiscent of it's golden age. But, also partaking in the experience of these respective artists audibly triumphing over obstacles, hurdles, and roadblocks that may attempt to derail them from their creative path. Thus, marking such an occasion as being something that can only be truly described as "Monu-mEnTaL".

Calgary's own DJ Cosm has been a student of hip-hop culture from an early age. He has hosted the campus radio mixshow, The Main Ingredient (fka Mental Illness) on Cjsw 90.9 FM Calgary since 1998, and is the DJ half of the accomplished rap duo, Dragon Fli Empire. DJ/producer Cosm showcases both his golden era roots and appreciation for modern boom bap production on his latest 7” release, featuring three bangers from his CD/digital only album, "Natural Within". Cosm lends the perfect sinister mood for Daniel Son and Saipher Soze to get busy on the hard-hitting joint, "Rome". Halfcut and Ghettosocks join forces for the funky boom bap banger "Leave the Bells" with DJ Cosm providing his signature scratches. On the b-side track "All or Nothing", Cosm laces a booming break that unleashes lyrical carnage from Adam Bomb, Mercules, Fortified Mind, and Halfcut.

Underground hip-hop legends Spectac & Amiri are back with their latest offering, "Beautiful Soul", set for release through Ill Adrenaline Records. Known for their signature jazzy, soulful soundscapes and introspective lyricism, this album builds on the success of their critically acclaimed project Soul Beautiful. Once again, Amiri's soulful production lays the foundation for Spectac's sharp, reflective rhymes, proving the duo's chemistry is as potent as ever.

Amiri has long been praised for his ability to blend golden-era vibes with modern production techniques, crafting beats that seamlessly combine jazz, soul, and boom bap. Over the years, his work has earned a respected place in the underground scene, producing for a wide array of artists while staying true to his unique sound.

On the mic, Spectac is a seasoned emcee from South Carolina with roots in North Carolina, known for his witty wordplay and freestyle prowess. With a career spanning over a decade, his lyricism often explores personal experiences and societal issues, making his verses both relatable and thought-provoking. Together, the duo has earned the respect of underground hip-hop heads globally, delivering consistently high-quality music that blends nostalgia with fresh creativity.

Having worked with the likes of 9th Wonder, Big Daddy Kane, and A Tribe Called Quest, Spectac & Amiri are most definitely veterans in the game. Their releases have always been rooted in the spirit of true-school hip-hop, which has enabled them to maintain their underground presence for decades.

The lead single from Beautiful Soul, titled "Yeah Y’all", features their long-time friend and collaborator DJ Shakim, who adds his signature blend of scratches and cuts over Amiri’s dreamy instrumental. Spectac's effortless flow shines with lines like, "…me and Amiri not the greatest but close enough, a stone throws away from a J-Dilla donut…"

With tracks like "When We Do It", "Sermons for Bentleys", "Got a Feeling", and "Wake Up!", the duo dives into themes ranging from reflections on their personal journeys to commentary on the political and social challenges they've witnessed throughout their careers. As always, the album serves a balanced mix of lyrical depth and soulful vibes, offering something for both new listeners and longtime fans.

For those familiar with Spectac & Amiri, Beautiful Soul is a return to form, delivering the kind of lush, thoughtful hip-hop that's become their trademark. And for newcomers? Consider this your backstage pass to one of the best-kept secrets in the underground. Get ready, because once you hit play, you're not just listening — you’re vibing with legends.

Includes original insert.

Uzoo came to existence in the winter of 2015. Aware of the depth of talent in the Connecticut hip-hop scene, and fed up with being overlooked, Joey Batts called upon his closest friends to form a CT-based supergroup. By bringing the best of the best together into a cohesive unit - one that allowed for individual talents to shine alongside the overall power of the group as a whole - Uzoo brings forth a musical experience reminiscent of the 90's-era Wu-Tang Clan, reminding hip-hop fans of how revolutionary a collective has the power to be. The dynamic collective boasts an eclectic offering of artistry, as each member brings their unique style to the table. Uzoo has something for everyone. The fact that such a wide array of styles are blended together so fluently on wax is a testament to the level of talent that exists within the group. Feeding off of one another's energy, the animalistic tendencies of each emcee is apparent as they trade bars and verses over rugged, grimy production. "Attack" (2017) on the a-side of this limited edition 45 was the group's very first official single - a rugged and grimy posse joint featuring all the Uzoo members, very similar to the Wu's classic "Protect Ya Neck". The b-side contains the catchy but still raw "Hollow Soul (Remix)" with Joey Batts and Crissb. Amazing delivering another certified banger.

The debut collaboration by Harlem, New York City raised, Ugandan born, award winning hip-hop creative Emma Lee M.C. and decorated German producer Roccwell is a potent offering of globally creative proportions. Merging her bold, flowful vocals and piercingly imaginary lyricism with his smooth, classic, world-renowned "boom bap" production over seven tracks, the two who met during a pandemic aimed to stifle their artistry have used the "new normals" as opportunity to create new energy, tell new stories and re-balance tastes in the culture.

On the lead single “Like It’s 93” featuring hip-hop legend Masta Ace, listeners are treated to a unique twist on nostalgia. Emma Lee personifies hip-hop by lyrically describing a dysfunctional but loving relationship using over 40 classic rap album titles all released in the year 1993, with Masta Ace responding metaphorically in a classic rebuttal. The track rolls in with a dreamy soundscape over Roccwell's signature snare drum spine, lifts and waves with Emma Lee's softly layered vocals in the hooks, and ends with a sonic collage of reflective cuts by DJ LP2 reminding us why we fell in love with hip-hop. As mentioned from "Digable Planets to Doggystyle," this track is a witness and poetic questioning of a pivotal time in music.

The follow-up single "Cravings & Withdrawals" with hip-hop legend Bahamadia holds its own as one of the smoothest rap duets put to wax in a long time. As Roccwell riffs the beat like a spacey and jazzy interlude, an elite skill level of emceeing is on display by two generational talents unapologetically pouring onto the track. The dream duo gives us an unbeatable breather during the hooks which are elevated by an adaptation of classic neo-soul R&B, asking whether listeners are "craving something real?" Clever cuts by DJ LP2 once again punctuate the odyssey and are sure to please most music heads.

“Chocolate Bars” by Emma Lee M.C. & Roccwell stays true to its rooted theme and includes a few musical twists, start to finish. From its concept, choice of instruments, variation, undeniable lyricism, sounds and messaging, it creates both curiosity and satisfaction, and leaves hip-hop lovers surely wanting more.