Hip Hop CD 1589 Items

Limited edition of 300 copies on double CD in jewel case.

Founded in 1992 during the golden era of Hip Hop, the trio from St. Louis, Missouri, consists of Shorty Live, P Da Wicked and DJ Alejan. In the mid-90's the crew recorded and self-released a few 12" titles full of quality that still keep diggers worldwide being on the lookout. "The Classic Collection" includes 14 tracks from that era plus 11 instrumental versions.

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 3LP, 2CD in jewel case, double cassette plus digitally on all major platforms.

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

For us, the Canadian undergound scene of the mid-to-late 90's has something very special about it and delivered a few magic releases. Combining progressive beats with thoughtful rhymes, "Rush Of The Planet" of Toronto's legendary Brass Tacks crew from 1997 is one of those nuggets with a massive impact not only to us. Step into the realm of Battle Cat and Diamond Eye's and let your mind blow.

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 1LP, CD in jewel case, cassette and digitally on all major platforms.

Maps is the new album from NYC rapper billy woods and LA producer Kenny Segal, their first full collaboration since 2019’s Hiding Places. Four years after that landmark record, the duo have reunited with a vengeance. Maps is a story of the road, or roads, taken and untaken; of living the dream and dreaming of another life. It is an album about trying to find your way home, after making your home wherever you lay your head.

“Kenny and I made more songs together before Hiding Places than we did after,” woods says. “I think we only collaborated once over the last four years and although we didn’t talk about it, I think we wanted to let that energy build again. Neither of us wanted to make Hiding Places 2. We needed to go on other journeys, artistic and otherwise, to come back and do something fresh.”

Produced in full by Kenny Segal, Maps features Danny Brown, ELUCID (Armand Hammer), Shabaka Hutchins, Sam Herring (Future Islands), Quelle Chris, Aesop Rock, Benjamin Booker, and ShrapKnel. Segal moves effortlessly through styles but everything is underpinned with deep basslines and mean drums laid down like railroad tracks. Weaving between poignant memoir, deadpan humor, and incandescent bursts of surrealism, Maps cements both artists’ place amongst the best of their time.

All songs written by billy woods except where noted
Produced and mixed by Kenny Segal
Engineered by Kenny Segal, Steel Tipped Dove
Additional engineering by Aesop Rock
Mastered by Willie Green @ The Greenhouse
Aaron Carmack - rhodes on 3,17
Aaron Shaw - tenor sax on 12
Jason Wool - piano on 11, rhodes on 16
Joanne - additional vocals on 15
Mike Parvizi - bass on 17
Ryan Crosby - guitar on 17
Shabaka Hutchings - flute on 10

Art Direction by billy woods
Illustrations by ashes57
Graphic Design by ashes57

Thanks to ELUCID, Mo Niklz, J. Corso, KK, Manami, Jeilah, J. Markey, Patric, Injury Reserve, Brooke, Alchemist, Joanne, Conor & Lauren, M. Crook, Dave @ DailyOp, Domenico, BoyQ, Akkee, Rich Jones, Anton, Yungmorpheus, and most memorably, Levi Neal.

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

Originally released in 1994, the debut release of O.C. is one of those highlights in a year full of classics in rap. "Word...Life" includes productions by D.I.T.C.'s Buckwild and Lord Finesse, Organized Konfusion and DJ Ogee as well as features by Pharoahe Monch and Prince Po on the mic.

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP+7", CD in jewel case and cassette.

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

O.C.'s sophomore album "Jewelz" dropped in 1997 with an all-star cast of guests and producers. The line-up included the likes of Big L, DJ Premier, Buckwild, Organized Konfusion, The Beatminerz, Freddie Foxx and others and "Jewelz" became a worthy successor to "Word...Life".

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP+7", CD in jewel case and cassette.

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

The Street Poets project consisted of several cats from the Boston, MA, area. The production was handled by Underground Productions and DIF Productions, who also appeared on the microphone along MC's Polecat and Punch Spiked W/ Poison. The one and only album dropped on their own imprint DBK Records in 1995. Next to three accompanying 12" singles, the full album was only available on CD and cassette so far - until now!

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP+7", CD in jewel case and cassette.

When making this album, I wanted to do something that creatively pushed a button. Something that served a purpose while trying to understand both sides of the fence that it represents. The idea of a fictional character, Franklin Saint, and what his innermost thoughts could be when dealing with the fictional world he’s caught within. What makes it so intriguing is that his character and his world are mirrors of a time and EDA that really happened. The birth of one of the world’s most addictive drugs and how its ripple effect took on a life that may seemingly never die. The crack era was one of the worst chapters in black America’s story. Using the “Snowfall” series as a vehicle to delve into both sides was truly fascinating as an emcee. It’s a project that is layered beyond measure. If you’ve never seen Snowfall, you’ll think it’s a really great album, but if you’re an avid fan of Snowfall, you’ll truly feel as if Franklin, the conflicted boy genius turned millionaire and career criminal, truly did pick up a pen and pad to write his life story over a bed of beats. It was one of the most intense projects I’ve ever written. The idea of becoming a fictional character which represents actual real life events, making sure to hit every detail, be it from both the show and our real world, was a writing work out like no other. I’m honored to have been able to do so, and I’m honored that The Other Guys trusted me to step outside of a box and truly push the envelope with this. Enjoy, and remember, like they told us in the 80’s: just say no. -Skyzoo

Limited edition of 300 copies of the vocal version on CD in digipak.

French producers Alcynoos & Parental team up with Norwegian beatsmith Type.Raw and the Loop.Holes crew to lay a jazz-infected groundation for an all-star cast of MC's like Mathematik, Ill Conscious, Verbz, Kid Abstrakt, Illa J & Frank Nitt, Kev Brown & J Scienide and many more.

Available in a limited run on colored 2LP (vocal version), black 2LP vinyl (instrumental version), CD in digipak (vocal version), cassette (vocal version) and digitally (vocal & instrumental version).

Ransom and V Don connect on their highly anticipated collaborative album, "Chaos Is My Ladder", and just as expected, Jersey City's emcee technical bars perfectly fit V Don's cinematic soundscape. Alongside guest appearances by Lloyd Banks, 38 Spesh, Eto, J. Arrr, Mad Squablz and Crystal Caines, the two have crafted a perfect record for their already incredible catalogues, with Ransom coming on the heels of "This Life Made Me" and his "No Rest For The Wicked", and V Don’s most recent collaboration "Deutsche Marks 3" with Willie The Kid.

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

In 1997, Example (consisting of DJ Cipher & Kay) dropped the debut EP "Impulses" in a very limited run on their own Beat Farm imprint. It was an instant classic amongst diggers and is still be seen as one of the finest underground releases out of Houston, TX. Now here we have the 25th anniversary edition with full cover artwork and for the very first time all instrumentals included.

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP, cassette and jewel case CD.

Limited edition of 150 copies on CD in jewel case.

"I'll Make U Famous" marked the 4th album by Philadelphia's own Da Youngsta's. Originally released in 1995 on the Goodman's operated Pop Art Records, the album remains still a classic with hits like the title track "I'll Make U Famous", "Everyman 4 Theyself" or "Bloodshed And War" featuring the infamous Mobb Deep.

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP+7", CD in digipak as well as jewel case and cassette plus digitally on all major platforms.

Limited edition of 150 copies on CD in digipak.

"These Never Dropped" is a selection of unreleased music from 1993 to 1997 from the crates of Adagio! and contains 10 vocal tracks as well as 5 instrumentals.

Adagio! (pronounced "A-dee-gee-o") stands for "A Definition of Ambition, Goals, Interest and Organization!". The Juggaknots-affiliated New York and Philadelphia based underground hip-hop duo consisting of Rayme Supreme (Raymond Fogle) and Big Cousin also known as The Obvious Wonder (Brian Pritchett aka Carta' P.) made some buzz with their highly respected underground 12" releases and "These Never Dropped" marks their second release on 90's Tapes.

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.

The Last Dimension chronicles Mad Pack’s progression from a conglomerate of raw hip-hop talent into polished rap trailblazers here in the Salt City. The Syracuse collective included three acts: Channel 3, the Sub-basements and solo artist R-Reality For fans who enjoy rap laced with lyrical mind bombs and humorous rhymes, Last Dimension hits its mark in a hurry. Aesthetically, however, it’s infused with a back-to-basics style that emphasizes double entendre and palpitating rhythms, yet refuses to rely on hyper-materialism and gimmicks. Newcomers beware, however: Last Dimension remains close to the street. Hip-hop heads who have caught Mad Pack’s high-energy performances at local venues or heard them flex their freestyle rhyme skills over the airwaves of the old Wolf-am 1490 will certainly remember the rambunctious “Kill a Copy Kat” and more mellow offerings such as “Continuous Vibe” and “Six Souls Singin.'” New Edition fans will recognize Mad Pack’s hypnotic “Red Lights and Incense,” which features the beat from NE’s single “Hit Me Off.”



Limited to only 250 copies and remastered by Jee Van Cleef!

The flava never ends!! And we're back with another new Pseudo's project and this one is stupid fresh. All the samples are taken from one vintage source for this, possibly their dopest album to date. The artwork, by the excellent Julian Montague (Jazz is Dead) is a pastiche [yeah, I said pastiche!] of the art on the OG label, with even the logo flipped into Herring.



Cause of the crazy long post-covid lead times we've been sat on this pandora's box of flava for toooo long - but now it's time to share. I've given up on the superlatives with the Pseudos - the stuff just gets better and better. Concept, breaks, drums, art are all top notch, so please enjoy album #4 from the Pseudo/Herring collaboration.

In their 25-plus years as a duo, Atmosphere's rapper Slug and producer Ant have built a legacy that is embedded in the fabric of underground hip-hop. Rising in the ranks of Minneapolis, their debut album, Overcast! was released in 1997. Presented as a flurry of vignettes, and paired with an unending touring schedule, the album was a springboard from which the group was able to become a fixture in the midwest music scene. It wasn't long before their songwriting evolved from telling inventive third-person tales to delivering introspective first-person eviscerations, and by the early 2000's Slug would jokingly birth the phrase "emo rap" in an interview before publications began running with the genre tag to describe them and others. In the decades since their debut, Atmosphere has maintained a course of rigorous output, releasing over two dozen studio albums, EP's and collaborative side projects in as many years. The venerated duo have built a legacy out of bringing honesty, humility and vulnerability to the forefront of their music. Slug has proven masterful at storytelling and writing compelling narratives, leaving a trail of his own influence while paying homage to the rappers and songwriters that helped shape him. Meanwhile, Ant has skillfully molded the soundtracks with inspiration from soul, funk, rock, reggae, and the wizardry of hip-hop's pioneering DJ's and producers, creating his own trademark sounds and providing the pulse for songs about life, love, stress and setbacks. At its essence, Atmosphere has been a musical shepherd, guiding generations of listeners through this thing called life. Their newest album, 2023's So Many Other Realities Exist Simultaneously, captures perhaps some of Atmosphere's most personal work to date. The odyssey opens with a gentler approach than recent works, with the lead-off track "Okay" seemingly focused on comforting and reassuring the listener. As Slug raps over one of the most twinkling productions Ant has ever released, the song lays the groundwork for an album-length exercise in fumbling consciousness. Yet, as gently as the album begins, there's an unmistakable sense of unease from the outset that continues to evolve throughout the project, as Slug and Ant weave the listener through indistinct themes of insomnia and woe. From the subtle panic at the heart of songs like "Dotted Lines" to the overt anxiety of songs like "In My Head," the unease across tracks is unmistakable. Yet, as the tears might begin to well, they find resolve again through songs like "Still Life," whose hopeful outlook undercuts the tensity of the album. All the while, the rhythms on So Many Other Realities are some of the most inventive of Atmosphere's career. Ant's playful percussion on "In My Head" acts as a nice counterweight to the roiling writing, while the drum patterns on "Holding My Breath" and "Bigger Pictures" allow Slug to play with his flow to emphasize the anxiety driving the record. Where previous records in this most recent act of Atmosphere's career have been focused on emphasizing the parts of life that carry the most meaning_family, brotherhood, purpose_So Many Other Realities is an almost unnerving excavation of paranoia inspired by the general malaise of a pandemic weary society full of civil unrest. The tension in these songs is palpable, but the album's mere presence is a testament to the hope that has to underpin even the most stressed out epiphanies. The greatest risk Atmosphere has continued to take across their career is that of being vulnerable and unafraid. The world has inconceivably changed since Slug and Ant entered into the underground hip-hop scene, but despite the seismic shifts in music and culture, they've held strong to a foundation rooted in sly innovation and truth. The duo's relentless release & touring schedules only tell a piece of the story, but spending time with their records_whether you're a new fan or a longstanding listener_reveals a pair of friends who love to create and live for unabashed self-expression. Their bare reflections on life and the mundane traumas and joys that make living worthwhile are a gift, and that is Atmosphere's legacy in and of itself. If the music stopped tomorrow, the duo would go down as two quiet titans who changed the course of everyman rap forever.

Limited edition of 300 copies on 2CD in jewel case.

Originally released as a 9-track LP on legendary Fondle 'Em Records in 1996, the Juggaknots debut made a huge impact and is still considered to be one of the finest underground releases in 90's Hip Hop. A lot of heads might own a copy of the various editions from the past, but we at 90's Tapes are very grateful to give this masterpiece from the Bronx another shine in 2022 again.

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

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

Originally known as 3'Da Hard Way, the Hard Knocks dropped their only full-length release "School Of Hard Knocks" in 1992. Comprised of MC Hardhead and DJ Stoneface, the duo's debut is a critical reflection of our society that stands the test of time.

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP+7", CD in jewel case and cassette.

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

The Oakland duo The B.U.M.S. dropped their debut album "Lyfe'N'Tyme" in 1995 with the help of Bay Area legends Sway and King Tech. The production was mostly handled by Joe Quixx plus one track each produced by Fred Wreck and the Baka Boyz.

To quote Billboard magazine from early January 1995, the Brothas Unda Madness »build verbal puzzles stacked with crafty metaphors and allusions to pop culture. Over spare, jazzy grooves that swing and spring, they endeavor to expose their souls. Using plain-spoken poetics, the duo takes listeners on a ghettocentric ride from their innocence into sense.«

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP+7", CD in jewel case and cassette.

The 10th Anniversary Reissue of Vinnie Paz's seminal sophomore album, God of the Serengeti, featuring the cult classics "Battle Hymn" and "Cheesesteaks."

The Machine is back! Following the 2022 release of the wildly successful, God Don't Make Mistakes, Conway the Machine returns with his next studio album, Won't HE DO IT. Aptly titled for touching on the various obstacles he's been faced with and overcome to be in the position he's in today, Conway hopes to inspire listeneres to imagine the possibilities they themselves can achieve by breaking through the walls that have been put up and relentlessly pursuing their goals to turn their dreams into reality. The 14 track album sees appearances by longtime collaborators Westside Gunn & Benny the Butcher, as well as Jae Skeese, Sauce Walka, Juicy J, Fabolous, Dave East, GooseByTheWay, 7xvethegenius, Jozzy, Ransom & Drea D'Nur. Production is handled by heavyweight producers such as J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, Khrysis, Daringer, Juicy J & more.

Limited edition of 150 copies on CD in jewel case.

Hailing from Atlanta, GA, Massinfluence has always been one of our favorite new school crews and "The Underground Science" is still one of those nuggets to recommend when someone is digging for jazz-infected boombap rap. Originally released in 1999, the trio consisting of Audessey, H2O and Cognito created a conscious classic all the way through that remains timeless. Next to the original 11 tracks the re-release contains 7 bonus tracks.

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

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

Another dream becomes reality for us, here's the debut album by rapper/producer duo Real Live from 1996.

On "The Turnaround: The Long Awaited Drama", cousins Larry-O on the mic and K-Def behind the boards served inner city life stories over moody string arrangements and heavy bass bumps. First time ever reissue available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP+7", cassette and jewel case CD.

Limited digipak CD edition of 250 copies of "Hazardous" by Godfather Don.

The debut album of New York based rapper and producer Godfather Don was originally released in 1991 via Select Records and gained an undeniable grail status amongst fans and collectors. Entirely produced by Don himself, the album is a hard-hitter from front to back and we are honored to finally give this masterpiece the reissue treatment 30+ years after it's initial release.

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

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD.

The Bush Babees debut album finally gets a reissue treatment on limited 2LP+7", cassette, CD and digitally. "Ambushed" contains instant classics like "We Run Things" or "Remember We" and features productions by the likes of Ali Shaheed Muhammad of A Tribe Called Quest, Salaam Remi, Jermaine Dupri and others.

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 in 1994 followed by the sophomore album "Gravity" in 1996 with the help from a number of Native Tongue members including Q-Tip and The Ummah, Pos of De La Soul, Rahzel of The Roots as well as a young Mos Def.

Strictly limited edition of 300 copies on CD.

"I'll Meet You In Greenwich" is a true classic from the late 90's from Chicago's The Primeridian. Tight productions paired with smooth back & forth rhymes by Tree & See-Me-On make this album another unique gem in your Golden Era collection. Available on limited 2LP vinyl, CD and cassette as well as digitally!

Strictly limited edition of 300 copies!

Next up on "90's Tapes" is a late nineties nugget from The B.L.U.N.T.E.D. Crew called "The Triangle". Check out "Keep Your Head" and you will instantly fall in love with this gem. Available for the very first time on vinyl and cassette beside a new CD and digital version!

Back in 1998 this rare and dope comp was released on tape only by this dope crew from Virginia named the Fat Nogin Civilianz. The collective was formed by different groups or artists like Vertical Status (Dalu, Soul Sun & Malik Starr), Exstra Black Adishon (N-Tel & Natural), Verbale Unknown (Majestic & Rapster Funk), Vinyl Scavengaz (N-Tel, Majestic & Ant Live), Bless, M Squared, Shabazz and Philosophy.



The project was released on Most Entertainement Music Group which originally started as a management company in 1995 and became a record company in 1997. It was managed by two childhood friends named Dante R. Parham and D. Carlos Johnson from Petersburg, VA. Carlos Johnson was also known by the rap name KAY ILL who also features on the comp.



Now in 2023, HHE is proud to present you the 25th Anniversay Edition on CD and soon also on vinyl! Shoutout to Dante R. Parham for making this happen!



Both the CD and vinyl edition will be limited to strictly 250 copies! The CD will come with an 8 page booklet and the music has been remastered by Jee Van Cleef!

Over fi ve years after the release of "Blue Notes", V Don and Willie The Kid are back at it with the 2nd chapter! Willie The Kid keeps delivering fl awless bars over V Don's cinematic and stone cold productions to give you the chills, featuring guest appearances by Flee Lord, Ransom, Ankhle John, Babymaine, TY Da Dale, Whoisbravy and Hobx.

Yo! Boombox is the new instalment of Soul Jazz Records’ Boombox series on the early days of hiphop on vinyl and features some of the many innovative underground first-wave of early rap and disco rap records made in the USA in the period 1979-83. The album includes the first releases of seminal groups such as Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five and The Funky Four Plus One More through to a host of rarities and little-known obscurities such as the Carver Area High School band’s ‘Get Live 83’, an awesome record made at a Chicago high school. The album is released as a deluxe triple LP complete with 3x full inner sleeves of extensive sleeve notes, exclusive photography and original label artwork. There is also a very-limited one-pressing only special deluxe version that comes with an extra bonus super-rare 7” single of ‘Magic’s Rap’ by Magic’s Trick, aka ex-marine Magic Fraga, a record that was only ever available on US military bases! The album also comes as a deluxe double CD pack with 30-page booklet and slipcase. Yo! Boombox also features the stunning photography of Sophie Bramly, one of a very select group of photographers (alongside Henry Chalfant, Martha Cooper, and Joe Conzo) who were allowed full access to document the exciting early days of hip-hop in New York. These first exuberant wave of innocent, upbeat, party-on-the-block rap records were the first to try and create the sounds heard in community centres, block parties and street jams that first took place in the Bronx in the mid-1970s. Where the first DJs – Flash, Kool Herc and Bambaataa – were back-spinning, mixing and scratching together now classic breakbeat records like The Incredible Bongo Band’s Apache or Babe Ruth’s The Mexican, these first pre-sampling rap records were all made using live bands, often replaying then current disco tunes. As Chic’s ‘Good Times’ was to ‘Rappers’ Delight’, the songs here feature then-current dancefloor hits such as the Tom Tom Club’s ‘Genius of Love’, Cheryl Lynn’s ‘To Be Real’, MFSB’s ‘Love Is the Message’ while MCs rapped over the top, creating a unique new sound. In fact, the links between disco and rap date back earlier to the ‘party style’ MCing of figures such as the legendary DJ Hollywood or radio DJs like Frankie Crocker. This new Soul Jazz Records collection celebrates these first old-school rap records, bringing together rare, classic and obscure tracks released in the early days of rap.

Stakes is High is the 4th studio album by De La Soul, released on July 2, 1996. Stakes is High was critically lauded for its music, lyricism, and its overall message concerning the artistic decline rap music began to face in the mid-90s. The title track and first single was produced by J Dilla and the album's second single, "Itzsoweezee (HOT)", with only Dave on vocals, was accompanied by a creative music video. The album spawned a third single "4 More", featuring Zhane. The album did provide a launching pad for future star rapper and actor Mos Def, who appeared on the track "Big Brother Beat" and Common who is featured on "The Bizness".

The incredible follow-up to an magnificent predecessor.

The album is completely produced by illinformed and features 1jack, All Hail Y.T, Babylon Dead, Bil Next, Bill Shakes, Bisk, BVA, Chris Skillz, Crossbow T, Datkid, Dirt Platoon, Eric The Red, Frek 1, Gaza Glock, General, Inja, Jack Jetson, Jay Nice, Leaf Dog, Left Lane Didon, Lisaan'Dro, Pertrelli, Res One, Ruste Juxx, Sean Peng, Sk!nt, Smellington Piff, Tony Broke, Verb T, Wish Master & Wyatt Earp.

Mass 187 – Real Trues Paying Dues double CD comes in a white tray jewelcase.

Izniz, the producer for The Madness, Ghettolandz & Burn U.N.I. [as well as being the owner of Boom Bap Nation], hit up Sham from PD and said "Yo, speak to Bob about a release", so he did. He played me some joints from an unreleased 1999 project. There were some really dope ones on there but I was like "Where are the 1996 demos, ya know, the ones submitted to The Source's Unsigned Hype section". I was told that no one had them anymore. So unsurprisingly I was a little disappointed. I mean there was some niceness in the late 90's stash but it was those elusive demos that the heads were really feenin for.

Some time went by and one day I noticed someone was displaying a copy of the actual demo tape that the group had lost online. I hit dude up immediately and he was mad cool and knew Herring and very kindly offered to do a high quality rip of the material. And WOW. The material is absolute fiya. What we have here are all the tracks off the 1996 demo tape that the artists no longer have, plus one Absolute monster track from the late 90's. You tell me people, but I think this one is pretty, pretty, pretty special.

Perverted Dialect are Sick Ass Sham, Waynmega (Slang) and DJ Skills. They hail from the Long Branch neighborhood of New Jersey and knew each other from around the way. The group nearly copped a deal off Violator but it never came off. Violator's loss is our gain.

saiah Deshon & Professor Creepshow team up to extend the Mac God's prophecy. Tymg

Mac God Chronicles is now available on digital streaming, vinyl records, cassette tapes & compact discs

vinyl record includes exclusive instrumental version on side B, instrumentals will not be seen in any daylight of digital streaming media

Limited edition of 150 copies on CD in digipak of "Comprehension", the sophomore album by Shadez Ov Blac from Winnipeg, MB, Canada.

The group's debut "Next School Pioneers" dropped in 1995 via Peanuts & Corn, a Canadian underground label run by mcenroe. "Comprehension" followed in 1999, originally self-released on CD only accompanied by a now hard-to-find 12" release.

The album features mic guests such as Odario, Ismaila and Fayce as well as productions by mcenroe, The Buddha and Howard Hyman.

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

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD of the late 90's demo release "Mixed Emotions" with guest appearances by Apani B-Fly Emcee and Lockness of Splattahouse.

On "Mixed Emotions", the Brooklyn-based Dysfunkshunal Familee consisted of Braindead, D-Rock, Rebel Rhyme and Crazy DJ Bazarro. Recorded between 1994-98, the album still has that special Bushwick underground vibe and feel. Bazarro's words on the project: "What a time to be alive. We just sat in the crib making music, having fun, playstation, trying to change the world in our little world. Everything we talk about then is happening now. Good luck in the game called life. So many mixed emotions on this ride."

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

Limited edition of 300 copies.

We couldn't resist to drop two of our favorite projects from the 90's by legendary Westcoast crew The Nonce, "World Ultimate" (1995) and "The Sight Of Things" (1998). Yusef Afloat and Nouka Basetype (later known as Sach) delivered an unique sound and released instant classics like "Mix Tapes", "Bus Stops", "The Sight Of Things" or "Who Falls Apart?". Both projects are available in limited quantities on vinyl, CD, cassette as well as digitally.

Limited edition of 300 copies.

We couldn't resist to drop two of our favorite projects from the 90's by legendary Westcoast crew The Nonce, "World Ultimate" (1995) and "The Sight Of Things" (1998). Yusef Afloat and Nouka Basetype (later known as Sach) delivered an unique sound and released instant classics like "Mix Tapes", "Bus Stops", "The Sight Of Things" or "Who Falls Apart?". Both projects are available in limited quantities on vinyl, CD, cassette as well as digitally.

Strictly limited edition of 300 copies on CD.

Next up on "90's Tapes" are the demo 4-track recordings of Yusef Afloat's "Foreign Objects" and "Hard Times".

Known as one half of legendary Westcoast group The Nonce (along with Nouka Basstype aka Sach), MC/producer/musician Yusef Afloat produced tracks for Aceyalone, Supherb, and Figures Of Speech. He also appeared on the original 1994 release of Project Blowed. On May 21, 2000, Yusef "Afloat" Muhammad was found dying on the side of Freeway 110 in Los Angeles, he was 28 years old. The cause of his death is still unknown.

"When I listen to Yusef now, I'm reminded of what I felt then and that is he knew his time on Earth was limited. The tone was new, stern authoritative on his views and expressions of Hip Hop. I knew he was talking to me and each one of our peers. The tapes have been safe for 20 years thanks to Dee Skee for maintaining archives at Weightless Audio. The implications that I knew someone who may have said things because their span was going to be cut. I'm thinking he saw clearer than we could. I felt he wanted to be a guide in the discovery of what kind of Man I would live to be and what kind of Man listening to this music would turn out to be? I don't know if I had inclinations of my time being so short what I would have been spending it doing and he spent his saying these weighted lines. I thought it abrasive at first but I understand now why he said what he said and how with style! I miss him everyday and I'm so proud that Yusef's music can finally be showcased to the world in the beautiful way it is deserving. I'm blown back looking at the pictures, so many sat on that couch Yusef sits Ganjah K, Meen Green. What great sessions… no magical sessions. Preparing to play this record we would probably roll something and get comfortable on that couch… well… drop the needle! Push play!"

Sach - January 2021

"Foreign Objects / Hard Times" is available in limited editions on 2LP, MC and CD as well as digitally.

Strictly limited edition of 300 copies!

Next stop Baltimore! We are super excited to present K-Mack's underground classic "UnLimited" (entirely produced by DJ Concrete) on 90's Tapes in a 2LP outfit incl. download card as well as on cassette and CD. On top this gem is available on digital platforms for the very first time.

This is Annexx Clique in full effect!

HHE is proud to announce the very first release of our Dutch fam Boom Bap Relickz! The newly founded label proudly presents the first solo album by Oakland legend L*Roneous Da‘Versifier. By many headz considered a classic project, but on vinyl previously only released as a single vinyl edition that came in a generic sleeve.



To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the album no less than 4 extra bonus tracks are included and BBR went all out when it comes to quality and diversity. Check out the variants below!



• 350 x 2LP Gatefold black vinyl • 125 x 2LP Gatefold gold vinyl • 125 x 2LP Gatefold blue translucent vinyl



All vinyl come in a polypropylene sleeve with hypesticker, an additional press photo and a large folded insert (600x300) w/ all lyrics.



• 200 x CD in jewelcase with hypesticker and 12 page booklet w/ all lyrics • 200 x Deluxe 2xCD 3-flap digipack with all instrumentals on the bonus disc, hypesticker and 12 page booklet w/ all lyrics



• 100 x Tapes with printed body, 7-panel j-cart and hypesticker.



Each format has its own cover art. For the real collectors, there’s a Collector Package Deal. You also have the possibility to buy an authentic Yupoong snapback cap with 3D embroidered BBR logo on the front and their small brush symbol, dusting off your right ear, embroidered on the side. Available in 7 different colors. When combined with the Collector Package Deal, you only pay half of the normal price for the cap. That's to celebrate the first official release from Boombap Relickz, who are already working hard on their second release coming later this year...

HHE is proud to announce the very first release of our Dutch fam Boom Bap Relickz! The newly founded label proudly presents the first solo album by Oakland legend L*Roneous Da‘Versifier. By many headz considered a classic project, but on vinyl previously only released as a single vinyl edition that came in a generic sleeve.



To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the album no less than 4 extra bonus tracks are included and BBR went all out when it comes to quality and diversity. Check out the variants below!



• 350 x 2LP Gatefold black vinyl • 125 x 2LP Gatefold gold vinyl • 125 x 2LP Gatefold blue translucent vinyl



All vinyl come in a polypropylene sleeve with hypesticker, an additional press photo and a large folded insert (600x300) w/ all lyrics.



• 200 x CD in jewelcase with hypesticker and 12 page booklet w/ all lyrics • 200 x Deluxe 2xCD 3-flap digipack with all instrumentals on the bonus disc, hypesticker and 12 page booklet w/ all lyrics



• 100 x Tapes with printed body, 7-panel j-cart and hypesticker.



Each format has its own cover art. For the real collectors, there’s a Collector Package Deal. You also have the possibility to buy an authentic Yupoong snapback cap with 3D embroidered BBR logo on the front and their small brush symbol, dusting off your right ear, embroidered on the side. Available in 7 different colors. When combined with the Collector Package Deal, you only pay half of the normal price for the cap. That's to celebrate the first official release from Boombap Relickz, who are already working hard on their second release coming later this year...

187 copies made.

Seattle, Washington's AJ Suede teams up with Televangel (of Blue Sky Black Death) for 'Metatron's Cube,' an album of psychedelic, biting rhymes with smooth flows over brooding, nostalgic beats with a touch of noir that will hit you hard and envelop you in their world.

Multi-faceted artist, rapper, designer, animator, and producer AJ Suede has been praised in & featured on Spin, Kexp, The Seattle Times, and many more outlets for his growing loyal fanbase and distinct rhyming style. "Suede’s low yet forceful tenor and his discursive stream-of-consciousness rhymes...contain everything from socio-political commentary and blunted cinematic allusions to psychedelic visions." - Spin Magazine

It's all over the news right now, Dr. Dre finally got all the rights back and now we can all relax and get The Chronic on vinyl, CD and even on streaming platforms if there is no turntable nearby.

Now coming via Interscope who bought the physical distribution rights we are happy to get fresh copies of CDs and vinyl for you.

The blueprint of early 90s Westcoast Gangsta Rap. If you say you like Gangsta Rap and you don't own a copy, there is no excuse for that.

Embracing his career path as an emcee/entertainer, Crimapple returns with his latest solo effort, El Cantante, which serves as an ode to Hector Lavoe and The Fania Era of salsa music's profound storytelling. Although devoid of any guest appearances, Crime is joined by a supporting cast of praise-worthy producers throughout the project whom include Bohemia Lynch (Westside Gunn), Michaelangelo (Avenue, Vel the Wonder) as well as his frequent collaborator, Buck Dudley, among others. And while there’s tracks that borrow aesthetics akin to latin music—such as the syncopated rhythm patterns on “Tuesday,” or the looping pan flute heard on “Out the Way”—you’ll still find the archetypal soundscapes that have defined Crime’s discography. These include the soulful/zone-inducing loops on tracks like the album opener, “My Song,” as well as “Together,” “Encore,” and “Precious.” And then there’s the chest-pounding bangers like “Cosos,” where Crime lyrically remains in his bag with unrelenting, braggadocious rhymes: “You cheesecake, rappers know I get on this shit and eat great / Get better at any take and drop on anyone’s release date” All in all, El Cantante is a self realization of sorts as the New Jersey emcee shares his current life perspectives as he touches on what it’s like to be considered a hip-hop legend by many, while also reflecting on the path that brought him to this point in his career.

Pete Rock is widely recognized as one of the greatest hip hop producers of all time. His name is oft included in the pantheon of the greatest, alongside DJ Premier, RZA and J Dilla. In addition, Pete has one of the worlds most extensive vinyl collections, the sort of collection whose size can only be estimated, and that estimate stands in excess of 100,000 LPs. In 2019 Rock launched his own imprint, Tru Soul Records, with the release of Return Of The Sp-1200. Pete Rock goes back to his roots - the Sp1200 and his vinyl - to debut Return Of The Sp1200 Volume 2.

Detroit's Apollo Brown is back with the instrumental follow up to Clouds. Let the legendary beat maker take you on a trip.

Limited availability of sealed OG copies!

M.A.V. and Hobgoblin connect to bring you "Angelz and Demonz" the first installment of their series to come.

A lot of people don't realize that Freddie has actually been in the game for over a decade and came in on the same Freshman XXL cover as Meek Mill, Nipsey Hussle etc. Yet he was the only one with no major label backing or artist affiliation and his partnership with warner is his very first solo major label deal. With that being said, he feels as if he has made it thus far in his career without compromising his morals, creative integrity and principals as a man all while resisting temptations... hence the title $oul $old $eparately or $$$

Prop Dylan's fifth studio album Bushido Code is an ode to the alternative lifestyle. It's also a roadmap taking us from Prop Dylan's home town streets of Borlänge, through Southern Europe and all the way to Detroit City. Showcasing the heart and soul of this hard working independent artist.

The majority of beats on Bushido Code have been supplied by Detroit's producer extraordinaire Apollo Brown known for his soulful and distinct beats. Apollo Brown has undoubtedly set the tone for the album with 10 out of 14 tracks whilst Gravy Sparks and DJ Connect producing the remaining songs.

The former Slum Village member Elzhi from Detroit appear as a featuring guest. Also the American rap-heavyweights Termanology and Fashawn feature on two different tracks. Cosmic from Looptroop Rockers and the soul singer Erik Runeson adding the final pieces to the album

17 track album 'Roma Supreme' by Smellington Piff & Illinformed

High Focus Records are excited to present 'Ever Since', the brand new album from prolific Brighton-based producer Mr Slipz and the newest member of the HF family, Australian rapper Nelson Dialect - A landmark release and signing for High Focus with Nelson being the first international signing on the label.

UK listeners might have first heard Nelson collaborating with Verbz & Mr Slipz on the song ‘Hope’ from their acclaimed LP ‘Radio Waves’ released on High Focus in 2020. Nelson has a cult following in his own right in Australia, and previously released music on the legendary U.S label Fat Beats to great acclaim.

Now teaming up with one of the most exciting and respected UK producers, Nelson & Mr Slipz deliver ‘Ever Since’. A statement piece by two artists with well over a decade spent on their craft which sounds as urgent and refreshing as if it were their first time releasing music. The album’s title is a reference to the endless quest for a timeless sound, reflecting the creative partnerships which spark from a seemingly forever existing thread of music.

The album features a slew of impressive guest verses including label mates Vitamin G & Verbz on the emphatic ‘Oxford Scholars’. Two legends Jehst & Confucius MC combine on ‘Smooth Ride’. Bronx pioneer & D.I.T.C legend A.G delivers a show stopping verse on ‘Trembling the Marrow’. There are hypnotic singing performances by Indira May on ‘First Date’ & ‘Open Book’ as well as Hiatus Kaiyote back up vocalist Jace XL on the soul stirring anthem “Figure Out What’s Right”. U.S rappers SickInTheHead & Cazeaux O.S.L.O round out the impressive guest list on the album with their inspired verses.

Limited edition of 150 copies on CD in jewel case.

"Doom" marked the 1997 album debut by Mood, a legendary trio out of Cinicinnati, Ohio, consisting of rappers Main Flow and Donte as well as producer Jahson. The album features early productions by Hi-Tek and guest appearances by Talib Kweli. Next to cuts like "Karma" or "Secrets Of The Sand" our version includes the early classics "Verbal Stampede" plus the remix as well as "Hustle On The Side".

Available in a limited run on black gatefold 3LP, CD in digipak as well as jewel case and cassette plus the bonus tracks digitally on all major platforms.

Limited edition of 150 copies on CD in jewel case.

This one has been on our want list for quite a while now and we are more than happy to finally announce the re-release of Vibetree's debut "As I Come Back". Originally released independently on Illynoise in 1995, the album is a true underground gem from front to back fully produced by Base Jase and available in more formats than CD only for the very first time.

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

Limited edition of 150 copies on CD in jewel case.

Widely known for the classic cut "Love Comes And Goes", Ed O.G & Da Bulldogs' sophomore album "Roxbury 02119" from 1993 has way more to offer and is another nugget from the golden era that shouldn't be missed in a 90's collection. The production was mostly handled by Diamond D of D.I.T.C. and Joe Mansfield and the re-release includes a few bonus tracks from the albums' accompanying 12" releases including a remix by RZA.

Available in a limited run on 3LP+7", CD in digipak as well as jewel case and cassette.

The Menu is a 16 track album by Leaf Dog & BVA. The album features M.O.P and Keith Murray with most of the production done by Leaf Dog but featuring production from Illinformed and Stevi Beats

Limited edition of 150 copies on CD in digipak.

"I'll Make U Famous" marked the 4th album by Philadelphia's own Da Youngsta's. Originally released in 1995 on the Goodman's operated Pop Art Records, the album remains still a classic with hits like the title track "I'll Make U Famous", "Everyman 4 Theyself" or "Bloodshed And War" featuring the infamous Mobb Deep.

Available in a limited run on black vinyl 2LP+7", CD in digipak as well as jewel case and cassette plus digitally on all major platforms.

Bad Boy Chiller Crew is a bassline collective from Bradford in West Yorkshire. The group began by uploading comedy and prank videos online before making music influenced by the UK bassline scene which rose to prominence (particularly in the Yorkshire region) during the 2000s. In November 2021 the band could be seen in their own reality TV documentary, broadcast on Itv2. This is the groups second album release (first on the Relentless label) - a 20 track mixtape style CD available at reduced dealer price. Strong support across all streaming platforms, alongside radio support (R1, Capital, ILR playlists & features). Press ads, features, interviews & reviews across music mags, tabloids & broadsheets. Online & social media activity.

30th Anniversary definitive issue of legendary hip-hop crew The Freestyle Fellowship's landmark 1991 debut "To whom it may concern..." mixed from the original 4-track tapes by Cut Chemist, mastered for vinyl by Daddy Kev, and pressed lovingly to double vinyl. Vinyl package includes an insert with full credits, rare photos from the archives of Brian "b+" Cross and producer J. Sumbi, as well as copious liner notes by David Ma and Nate LeBlanc of DadBodRapPod. Manufactured entirely in the U.S.A.

Strictly limited edition of 300 copies on CD.

Next up on 90's Tapes is another underground gem from the Golden Era, this time from Grand Rapids, MI. The Realist's "Time Killaz / Gimme Love" is another true-school gem for the heads out there. Peep "420 (Keep Doin It)" and you know what to expect. Available on limited 3LP vinyl, CD and cassette as well as digitally!

Buffalo, NY-based emcee Elcamino of the underground hip-hop collective Griselda, has released a flurry of EPs and full-lengths of the classic mafioso style of rap from the 90s since hitting the scene in the mid-10s, and has shown no signs of slowing down whatsoever. His material calls back to the works of legends like Raekwon and Mobb Deep with his grim portrayals of crime and urban chaos, inspired and informed by his own past as a drug-dealer. Frequently Elcamino has found himself paired with Griselda cohorts such as Conway, Benny The Butcher, and Westside Gunn, but on his 2019 EP Abraham & Lot, he's riding solo for a more insular and introspective experience. Amidst his usual tales of street thuggery and cocaine-proliferation are occasionally mellow and reflective, backed by orchestral and piano-driven production from DJ Shay.

Strictly limited edition of 300 copies!

Next stop Baltimore! We are super excited to present Silouette's underground classic "Chocolate Malibu" (entirely produced by DJ Concrete) on 90's Tapes in a 2LP outfit incl. download card as well as on cassette and CD. On top this gem is available on digital platforms for the very first time.

This is Annexx Clique in full effect!

Rashad & Confidence, two longtime students of the game, released their critically acclaimed debut album "The Element of Surprise" back in 2011. Eight years later, this classic and much sought after underground gem finally gets officially re-issued for the very first time and in very limited quantities.
The MC/producer duo, hailing from Brooklyn and Philly, merged to create a record with a timeless sound reminiscent of hip-hop's golden era but with a fresh, updated feel. With no guest appearances or other producers involved, Rashad & Confidence embody the sound real hip-hop heads yearn to hear, going back to the times of Gang Starr and Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth.
The soulful hitting and sample-based boom bap beats courtesy of Confidence capture the pure essence of classic hip-hop production while Rashad's deep and conscious lyrics slice through each track with topics ranging from various life issues to relationships or just raw lyrical display.
Push the play button and get taken back to a time when hip-hop only produced classic albums.

Apathy (Demigodz, Army of the Pharaohs) and O.C. (D.I.T.C. - Diggin' In The Crates) combine forces to form 'Perestroika', a supergroup inspired by the cold war being waged on the rap industry.

Anti-mainstream propaganda has become a bit of a cliche, so instead of speaking out against the unflattering direction that today's hip hop music has gone in, Apathy and O.C. have taken action by building a pillar in the ruins of what's left of true school hip hop.

Picture the first time you heard Wu-Tang Clan's debut album "Enter The Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers" and were immediately swept up in to a dark Kung Fu movie, with the sound effects and painted visuals - "Perestroika" is intended to have the same effect... except it transports you to Cold War, Soviet Russia. From the Kremlin, to small villages affected by the economically devastating times of Perestroika, this album is a salute to the underdog and all those who are able to survive the coldest winters.

Not entirely conceptual however, the album allows both wordsmiths to flex their greatest strengths over solid head-nodding East Coast-styled production. Showing up for the cause, guests Celph Titled, Slaine, Marvalyss, Kappa Gamma and Jus Cuz add to the palate alongside production that is mostly handled by Apathy, with MoSS and Illinformed (The Four Owls) contributing tracks as well. In a time of worldly political conflict and scandals, this project plays as the perfect soundtrack to the madness.

This release also includes additional bonus tracks.

This limited 20th anniversary edition of Kool Keith's impossibly raunchy, "porno-core" 1997 classic, “Sex Style”. Includes instrumentals, limited to 500 copies worldwide.

He comes in many forms and many incarnations, but his style is distinctly his own. Just as there's no mistaking his smooth lyrical delivery and searing hip-hop prose with its underlying edgy beats, there's no denying the incredible force that is Kool Keith. Whether as a founding member of the legendary Ultramagnetic MCs, or in the guises of his renegade rap personas Dr. Octagon and Dr. Dooom, Keith has established himself as an innovative lyricist whose erudite raps push the envelope to the limit. When Keith Teams up with KutMasta Kurt on the production - they arguably create the best albums in his catalog.

Features guest vocals from: Celph Titled, Vinnie Paz, C-Rayz Walz, Louis Logic, Esoteric, Lexicon, Rise, Open Mic, Alius, Punchline, Wordsworth and many many many more...A founding member and unofficial leader of the Demigodz crew, one part of the super-group Army of the Pharaohs and down with the Connecticut crew Doe$Rakers, Apathy is a highly skilled and versatile lyricist able to spit verses on nearly any topic from girls, to battling, to chess. He is also known for his freestyle ability which is often the highlight of his live performances. This double CD collection of Apathy tracks has 45 tracks and is a full 160 minutes long. That’s just under 3 hours! All the songs are from the original masters and everything has been digitally remastered to professional standards, including the old classics like “Compatible”, “Smackdown”, “Ain’t Nuthin’ Nice”, and “Just Begun”. You’ll never find a collection of all these songs in perfect quality anywhere else. A lot of tracks have never before been released on CD, and many are super rare. Every track is the full length version, nothing has been cut or faded out early. There’s even three new, previously unreleased heaters: “Y’All Ain’t Good Enough”, “Public Execution (Demigodz Mix)” and “Don’t Talk To Me”. A must for any Apathy, Demigodz, Army of the Pharaohs or Doe$rakers fan!

Danny Brown, Mac Miller, Earl Sweatshirt, Raekwon, Scarface, Domo Genesis, Ab-Soul, Polyester the Saint, BJ The Chicago Kid, Big Time Watts, G-Wiz, Casey Veggies, Sulaiman, Meechy Darko & Freddie Kane are featured on this 17 track collaborative album ... this is collaborative for sure!

another milestone in the history of Mobb Deep, with contributions by Cormega, Nas, 8Ball, Lil Cease and others!

The album that started the whole Wu-dynasty. The clan is in effect any everybody can sing along!

"Chrome Bills is MC K-Cromozone (bkny) and DJ Steve Bills (dmv).



The duo linked out of their shared love of the golden era and 90s hip-hop which then turned into a podcast under the same name (Chrome Bills). The podcast lasted for 10 years. During that time, the show provided a showcase for underground and independent rappers. In 2019 they released “The EP” which served as the group’s first musical release together, although both artists have been active since the early 2000s.



The album features guest verses from underground heavyweights Seez Mics, Dood Computer, Dezmatic, Elsphinx, Moses Rockwell, Big Slop, Bobby Noble, and Rapswell (Penpals) and a beat from SQ (Penpals)."



This was a digital only release, but now available on physical for the first time.

As a member of seminal hip-hop group The Pharcyde, Fatlip helped expand the boundaries of the 1990s L.A. rap scene, releasing classic albums steeped in eccentric creative excursions rather than hard-edged gangsta bravado. Following in those footsteps, acclaimed emcee Blu has been at the forefront of the independent hip-hop landscape since the late 2000s, narrating the full range of experience in the City of Angels with impressive lyrical ingenuity. These two famed artists recently joined forces for the collaborative album Live From The End Of The World, a dazzling rhyme whirlwind boasting an overwhelming collection of West Coast lyrical talent, including Del The Funky Homosapien, Gift Of Gab, MC Eiht, and Ras Kass, along with members of iconic groups Jurassic 5, Tha Alkaholiks, Souls Of Mischief, Freestyle Fellowship, and Digital Underground. With production by Madlib, Nottz, Sa-Ra, Knxwledge, and Exile, the album is now available in physical form for the first time ever. This deluxe release includes two new bonus tracks featuring Slimkid3 (of The Pharcyde) and Pigeon John.

Atlanta native Tha God Fahim has emerged as a leading figure in hip-hop’s thriving modern underground, captivating listeners with masterful street soliloquies and timeless production. Uninterested in the flashy trappings of the modern rap game, Fahim has channelled his energy into building a phenomenal catalog, blending soulful aesthetics with hard-edged rhymes. Now, the talented emcee is taking a break from his dizzying mixtape schedule to unveil the new studio album "Iron Bull". Highlighting the power of relentless determination, the collection finds Tha God Fahim stronger than ever, elevating beyond adversity while remaining true to self. "Iron Bull" includes guest appearances by Mach-Hommy, Your Old Droog, and Jay NiCE, along with hypnotic production by Nicholas Craven, SadhuGold, Camoflauge Monk, and Fahim himself.

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".

Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump is the fifth studio album by De La Soul, released on August 8, 2000. Among the guests on the album are, Redman, Tash and J-Ro of Tha Liks, Xzibit, Busta Rhymes, Mike D and Ad Rock of the Beastie Boys, Busy Bee, Freddie Foxxx and Chaka Khan. Mosaic Thump returned De La Soul to chart territory again thanks to the hit singles "Oooh.", and "All Good?". "Oooh" was nominated for a Source Award and the album was nominated for a Grammy for Best Rap Performance By A Duo or Group.