Hip Hop 156 Items

Only 100 available here so be quick.

Spirit Roaming is Akai SOLO’s first full length collaboration with Backwoodz Studioz. The new album arrives on the heels of his Body Feeling EP, building on its material and existential themes. Here, Akai’s unique palette is applied to a bigger canvas, without losing the intimacy and the sardonic self-awareness that help define him as an artist— alongside a delivery and cadence all his own. “Spirit Roaming is essentially self wandering through various self-engineered hells searching for the silver lining,” Akai explains. “Not quite a shell but not quite full either; rather freshly devastated. I made a lot of foolish decisions and neglected even more important ones. The price for that is being paid in real time. Can I grow post payment or does the crater resulting from the transaction overwhelm me?” Spirit Roaming features an eclectic group of producers, from vets like Preservation, Animoss, Messiah Musik and August Fanon, to emerging talents Theravada, ibliss, WifiGawd, Roper Williams and Junie. Akai lends bits and pieces of his own production to the mix, but goes mostly dolo on the mic, with Armand Hammer as the lone feature arriving just in time for the curtain call. Working amidst a renaissance in NYC indie rap, Akai is both part of that wave and a man apart. The 27-year-old Brooklyn native has collaborated extensively with many of the scene’s stalwarts (including Pink Siifu, Armand Hammer, Navy Blue), but, true to his name, has always navigated his own course

Featuring Appearances BY THA GOD Fahim, MAV, Dame Dash, Chris Skillz, Generalbackpain, THE Musalini, Jamal Gasol AND More!

“Never mind the title; Ill Gotten Gains, the new LP from the Delaware rapper All Hail Y.T. and Loretta Records boss Observe Since ‘98, is (mostly) an album about how to succeed in business by, well, trying. “Doing deals with discernment,” Y.T. raps in “C.E.O.,” “Reading terms and agreements/ Devil’s in the details, I peeped it/ playing defense fiscally.” As the song winds toward its conclusion, the voice of Dame Dash appears, extolling the virtues of putting your shoulder to the grindstone to build your own empire. At this point in history, there are enough albums about the luxury of the gangster life to fill several hundred ocean liners; Ill Gotten’s dedication to sound fiscal advice on its own makes the album a breath of fresh air. But it’s more than just that: the album, which drops on vinyl today at 1pm EST via the Loretta Records Bandcamp, comes to life thanks to Y.T.’s earnest, encouraging delivery. Whether he’s dispensing pithy koans (“Procrastination kills all dreams”) or reveling in the spoils of his hard work (“What’s the P”) he has all the optimism of a motivational speaker. He’s matched perfectly by Observe’s characteristically inventive production, which forgoes the obvious picks in favor of finding choice breaks buried on Italian pop records (“C.E.O.”) and sources that are even tougher to place. Musically, the album is the perfect backdrop for the three-day weekend; lyrically, it will prime you for the week to come.”

–J. Edward Keyes (Bandcamp Daily)

Featuring Appearances BY THA GOD Fahim, MAV, Dame Dash, Chris Skillz, Generalbackpain, THE Musalini, Jamal Gasol AND More!

“Never mind the title; Ill Gotten Gains, the new LP from the Delaware rapper All Hail Y.T. and Loretta Records boss Observe Since ‘98, is (mostly) an album about how to succeed in business by, well, trying. “Doing deals with discernment,” Y.T. raps in “C.E.O.,” “Reading terms and agreements/ Devil’s in the details, I peeped it/ playing defense fiscally.” As the song winds toward its conclusion, the voice of Dame Dash appears, extolling the virtues of putting your shoulder to the grindstone to build your own empire. At this point in history, there are enough albums about the luxury of the gangster life to fill several hundred ocean liners; Ill Gotten’s dedication to sound fiscal advice on its own makes the album a breath of fresh air. But it’s more than just that: the album, which drops on vinyl today at 1pm EST via the Loretta Records Bandcamp, comes to life thanks to Y.T.’s earnest, encouraging delivery. Whether he’s dispensing pithy koans (“Procrastination kills all dreams”) or reveling in the spoils of his hard work (“What’s the P”) he has all the optimism of a motivational speaker. He’s matched perfectly by Observe’s characteristically inventive production, which forgoes the obvious picks in favor of finding choice breaks buried on Italian pop records (“C.E.O.”) and sources that are even tougher to place. Musically, the album is the perfect backdrop for the three-day weekend; lyrically, it will prime you for the week to come.”

–J. Edward Keyes (Bandcamp Daily)

Mash-up master Amerigo Gazaway has compiled a collection of the most popular and sought after tracks in the Soulmates catalog. Featuring choice cuts from very hard to find/out of print vinyl, fan favorites, and even a few former digital exclusives pressed to wax for the very first time.

Limited to 300 copies. - HHV exclusive

From The Trenches to the Penthouse, A Mid-West Rap Opus from Ohio's Stalley & Legendary Detroit producer Apollo Brown

From The Trenches to the Penthouse, A Mid-West Rap Opus from Ohio's Stalley & Legendary Detroit producer Apollo Brown

Back with his second full-length release of 2022 and follow-up to the wildly successful album, “FACE,” Babyface Ray gifts fans with “MOB,” an 18-track album featuring tightly selected appearances by Lil Durk, Blxst, Ninja, Doe Boy, Samuel Shabazz,King Hendrick$ & GMO Stax. 2022 was a banner year for Ray, with him being named to XXLs Freshmen class of 2022, as well as being elected to be part of the 2022 class for YouTube Music’s Black Voices Fund. He also embarked on his first sold out nationwide headlining tour, and appeared at several notable festivals, including Rolling Loud, Lyrical Lemonade's Summer Smash, Made In America, Wireless Fest, Broccoli City and others. After making a late night appearance on Jimmy Fallon, Ray announced his second headline tour slated for 2023, entitled “Courtesy of the MOB.” If one thing is clear, it’s that Babyface Ray is a force to stay for years to come.

Limited to 50 copies.

These copies have a damaged cover (seamsplit).

Benny The Butcher blazed a trail as an elite voice in rap’s underground to become a top artist in all of music. The prolific Buffalo, New Yorker has established two legendary (and concurrent) album series, broken bread with industry leaders, and twice reached the Billboard Top 40 albums chart as an independent. Now Benny sets the table for a definitive 2022. Soon, he will unveil his highly-anticipated Tana Talk 4. By 2004, Benny combined these experiences to launch the Tana Talk series while on house arrest. As TT3 promised, Benny delivered two volumes of The Plugs I Met, in 2019 and 2021, on his Black Soprano Family imprint. In between, Benny inked with Roc Nation management and made songs with Drake, Lil Wayne, Black Thought, and Freddie Gibbs. He also partnered with Grammy-winning producer Hit-Boy to flaunt his range on 2020’s acclaimed Burden Of Proof. If the third installment of Tana Talk made Benny a formidable presence in Rap, Volume 4 propels him to stardom. Debut single “Johnny P’s Caddy” partners The Butcher with J. Cole over The Alchemist production. Al’ and Daringer handle the album’s music, just as they seamlessly did on TT3. Conway, Westside Gunn, 38 Spesh and more guest on TT4, as does Stove God Cooks. Benny’s skills and authenticity have cemented his place in the game. However, in a career defined by will and perseverance, The Butcher’s blade keeps getting sharper.

Mere months after releasing an undisputed Aoty contender for 2020 with Burden Of Proof and only three months after being shot, Benny got back on his feet (way ahead of schedule) and re-immersed in his element “back to that little pot, that little flame”. While he has separated himself from his peers, Benny from Montana Ave knows the game is to be sold and never told and he has put all of these accolades in his rearview mirror to focus on his next lick; The Plugs I Met 2. The Plugs I Met 2 is the coronation of a true G going from worker to the PLUG---and never looking back. “I came in as an underdog, to filling out my position as one of the elite rhymers in the industry. Plugs 2 expands upon that mindset; the same confidence, same attitude, cocky, but I still have something to prove” Benny asserts. Produced entirely by Harry Fraud, the Brooklyn bred producer describes The Plugs I Met 2 as “the story of a hustler who’s realized success but understands how fragile it is. Lyrically the album shows Benny reflecting on what he’s sacrificed to get here and what he’ll need to do to continue his rise to the top. With this project we set out to transport the listener into a world that was lush but still gritty, triumphant but still emotional and sonically diverse across the board.”

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.

Limited edition of 100 copies on cassette - only 1 per customer.

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.

Limited edition of 500 copies on black vinyl 1LP with printed inner sleeve.

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.

Master of the mashup, Casual Connection cruises into town with a double shot of straight up summer burners to light up the dance.

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".

Indie Exclusive Black Vinyl Edition.

R.I.P. Trugoy the Dove

Bringing a sound and energy unlike any other, De La Soul quickly became one of the most revered, game-changing artists in hip-hop and forever cemented their legacy in the hearts and minds of fans around the world. Despite their rapid success and recognition, De La Soul continued to prove themselves as one of the most original, authentic and creative groups in hip-hop, following on May 14, 1991 with the release of their sophomore album, De La Soul is Dead. Featuring, once again, the production of visionary producer Prince Paul, their second album further fanned the flames; landing on charts around the world. “A Roller Skating Jam Named Saturdays,” “Ring, Ring, Ring (Ha Ha Hey)” and “Keepin’ the Faith” have become certified classics in the De La Soul catalog.

Indie Exclusive Black Vinyl Edition.

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".

Don't forget to grab your Stakes Is High poster from our Bonus Coin section.

I Had An Accident Records proudly presents a unique actual mixtape by Defie, 2020 / Uncensored Memorandum. It is quite the freakish mutant shapeshifter. It starts as an early 90’s bonus beats blends from discarded Mastermix or Big Beat or MicMac, or Fever Label records to OG Turkey Super Duck Booger Breaks (You wish you had a Starscream Aaaah to flare for 10 minutes), then grooves, Boogie, Ice T for the summer, and more. It sounds like a mixtape you would have gotten from Peanut Butter Wolf or Dj Shadow in the 90’s so they could play at your hip establishment. Only it’s 2020 and you are getting all this well deserved funk in this high powered cassette, today, right now, after read this. Like now, after this word, This.....

Welcome to the majestic world of Arodasio, a fictional floating island that finds its home in Dosi & Wishes and Dreams’ latest collaborative album. Though few tread here, the music recounts stories of the city’s former glory - soul-lifting piano melodies, cinematic drums and exotic ambience drift from far away in the distance, beckoning. Will you be the first to step foot on its land?

The 1st Beat Album by Dr. Flex Nakano, a beat maker from Iwate prefecture, is now available on analog LP! This beat album was produced based on the concept of fusion of 80's city pop and 2000's hip-hop/R&B. The album title "Protein Love" is based on the unique background of beat maker Dr. Flex Nakano as a bodybuilder.

Elwd presents his first ever collaborative project Monochrome - a transatlantic link-up featuring raps from Yungmorpheus, Vritra, Akai Solo, Nappynappa, Obijuan, Rahiem Supreme, Archibald Slim, and looms. In his own words: “Monochrome is about taking a step back, I wanted to create this unique atmosphere and feeling. Different to my other records, simple, yet complex in its thought and execution. I was thinking of monochrome as an idea instead of a visual meaning. Everything around us can be very complex but if you really narrow it all down it’s always two things - light and dark. Lancashire born, London based multi-instrumentalist and producer Tyler Ellwood uses a signature sample style blended with live instrumentation and never leans too much to one conventional style. Drawing inspiration from hip hop, jazz, the dreamy drift of ambient music, electronic, and yet eschewing conventionality and allegiance to any one genre.

With his acclaimed debut album Seeds, Roots & Fruits, an inclusion on Mark Farina’s Mushroom Jazz 8, and notable Cold Busted compilation appearances, the Polish beat-master Emapea has been a producer to watch. Early in 2018 he unveiled Zoning Out, Volume 1, an album intended for chilling while deep in thought, or for getting into that crucial head-nod zone, like when the DJ drops the dopest beat. With listeners ready for more rhythmic brain-food, Emapea provides with the anticipated next installment: Zoning Out, Volume 2. Developing the theme of Volume 1, Emapea takes his jazzy sensibilities and fresh drum patterns and ups the ante, delivering 18 mandatory cuts that swerve and shimmy while exhibiting pure dopeness. Take “Last Cypher,” which is an infectious funk-hip-hop hybrid that flows with more than a few surprise embellishments. There’s also the low-rider spy-hop of “Big Small Talks”; “Tantra” with its smooth, old school ride; the sensual boom bap of “Blue Almonds”; and the infectious, latin-lounge-tinged “Rainy Day”. These are no-nonsense beat compositions, perfect for thinking, for grooving, for dreaming, for zoning out. Emapea and Cold Busted come correct once again.

Producer Endemic Emerald has provided top-notch beats for many in the rap game over the years - notable names such as various members of the Boot Camp & Wu Tang camps, Tragedy Khadafi, Ill Bill, and Planet Asia. On ‘Renegade Soul’ he digs deep into his sounds to bring us his 1st instrumental album. The set features an array of soulful soundscapes, accompanied by a gritty undertone. The album moves through different moods, utilising a range of jazzy pianos, intense strings, and heavy basslines. Accompanied by soulful voices throughout a real edge is provided and makes ‘Renegade soul’ guaranteed head-nod material. The album will be available on 12” Vinyl, Cassette & CD on June 30th .

Grammy Nominated R&B singer & songwriter Eric Bellinger kicked off 2023 much like he kicked off 2021, with a hit album. For the first time ever, 1-800-hit-eazy Line 1 & 2 will be available on vinyl as a double album release. Executive produced by a literal hit maker in Hitmaka, both albums feature Eric's signature crooning voice over rich & silky R&B production. At 14 tracks per album, standout singles from 1-800-hit-eazy Line 1 include "Hit Eazy," & "Only You," while 1-800-hit-eazy Line 2 includes infectious songs such as "Curious (feat. Cordae & Fabolous)," "Decide," "Obsession (feat, Muni Long) - Remix," & "Sum 2 See (feat. Blxst)." Features across the two albums include Tink, Muni Long, Blxst, Cordae, Fabolous, Rahkay, Kalan.FrFr & Chrishan. Pressed on Aqua & Orchid Smash Vinyl

The Burrito Beats LP from Czarface's Esoteric showcases the grit, grime and flavor that rolls into his particular brand of Hip-Hop production. Similar to the ingredients of a burrito, there's much more than a single-serving of funk crammed into this meal, it is stuffed with everything on the menu. Deliciously dope drums, baked basslines, grilled grooves and savory soundbytes are chopped and served to your liking with Burrito Beats. Expect new recipes fresh off the skillet and some old classics as well, several culled from Esoteric's 2005-2009 production spree that brought us Serve or Suffer, Egoclapper, Esoteric vs. Japan, and Saving Seamus Ryan.

For the first time on vinyl!

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!

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.

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.

A must-hear collaboration between FiJA, a remarkable singer who has been getting love calls from many musicians, and Koyanmusic, a rapper and producer. "Bossy Cat" is a comical and catchy song about the daily life of FiJA's own cat. The 7" includes the instrumental version on the B-side. *limited Quantity*

In honor of the 15-year anniversary of Glen Porter's debut album "Blessed by a Young Death," we are thrilled to present it as a limited edition 2xLP. This marks the first time the album has been available in its entirety on vinyl, with only 200 copies worldwide courtesy of Audio Recon, HHV, Inner Current Recordings, MISM, and Ooohh! That's Heavy.

“Blessed by a Young Death" holds a special place in our hearts and we’re sure many feel the same. The album's haunting melodies and compositions have captivated the listener since its original release in 2008. It's an album that evokes a wide range of emotions, from melancholy and introspection to moments of hope and tranquility.

In addition to celebrating the album's anniversary, this release serves as a tribute and 5 year memorial to the late Ryan Stephenson (Glen Porter). The album resonates with themes of loss, acceptance, and the bittersweet beauty of life, making it a perfect tribute to our friend and collaborator.

Limited edition of 500 copies on black vinyl in gatefold cover of Haiyti's latest work "Ich Lach Mich Tot". 21 tracks with features from Crackaveli, King Blade and none other than Chilly Gonzales!

I.B production and DJ Yosuke team up again. After 8 years since their last release, they are releasing a 12-inch album. Strictly Hiphop with a great mixture of fat rhymes by I.B production, dope and addictive beats, and Yosuke's colorfully developing beats and sharp scratches. Includes a DL code for 14 songs, including all songs from this album!!

Pressed in Canada.
The name of the 8-track project is Simple, which refers to a neighborhood called “Simple City” in southeast Washington, D.C.. According to the rapper, the area got its namesake as a result of the senseless violence that occurs there.



“There’s a neighborhood in my city called ‘Simple City,’” IDK said in a statement. “It gets its name because you can get killed for any simple reason. Simple City is also the birthplace of Marvin Gaye. I wanted to tell the story of Simple City in a way that it’s never been told before. From drug abuse to crime and murder, I wanted to cover what it feels like to be from Simple City and teach the world that the fix to helping disadvantaged black communities isn’t as simple as you think.”

Pressed in Canada.
IDK says of Usee4yourself, his second album and the sequel to his 2019 debut Is He Real?. The project sees Jay reflect upon how the lack of love in his home growing up has affected his views on relationships, women, and lastly, religion—tying back to the theological themes of Is He Real?.

Us4y features more ambitious production than IDK’s past releases, showcasing how he could be viewed as a producer before a rapper—which he himself has touched upon in tweets. It also boasts an impressive feature list of twelve other artists ranging from Slick Rick to Young Thug to MF Doom to T-Pain. Furthermore, Us4y includes uncredited spoken appearances from DMX, Mike Tyson and others

Fresh repress. J. Cole's album 2014 Forest Hills Drive was both a profound personal statement about childhood, sexual insecurities, adult angst, and the follies of success, on top of being an addictive listen with smooth beats that sounded closer to Jay-Z's prime in the early 2000s. But after hints at an early retirement and a declaration in September that he was going to stop performing for "a long time," it's a real sigh of relief to get this album. Partially recorded at the famous Electric Ladyland studios, J. Cole has made this his most intimate and personal album. He even jams out on the piano and guitar along to some of the tracks.

Limited Edition, in Germany only available to HHV customers.
For the first time on vinyl.

Repressed 2023.
12 tracks feat. Busta Rhymes, Common, Pharoahe Monch, Madlib, Med, Dwele, Black Thought and others.

Brooklyn-bred J-Live is a triple threat veteran in the indie Hip Hop scene, as a revered emcee, producer, & DJ. Features production from DJ Spinna, along with J-Live himself. Available on vinyl for first time in 16 years

J-Live’s sophomore effort All Of The Above continues the high quality form of his debut The Best Part. Once again, J showcases his thoughtful and intellectual lyricism coupled with his adept production skills on nearly half of the album, but also enlists the assistance of the legendary DJ Spinna to help round out the majority of production duties. Confident and consistent like his debut, All Of the Above is finally re-issued for the first time on wax. This time, pressed on blue vinyl and packaged in a wide spine jacket.

Neon Violet Vinyl.Kari Faux can't be stopped. The Arkansas native makes a full-circle return on her third album, REAL B*TCHES DON'T DIE!, a 12-track ode to her Southern roots. The LP weaves Kari's crisp production with her laid-back and bossy flow, gliding through her Dirty South roots with ease, and nodding to Outkast and UGK as influences while the femcee asserts...

The album has been a labour of love spanning nearly a decade with the origins of Kaytraminé trace back to 2014, when Aminé unveiled "Not At All," an unofficial remix of Kaytranada's 2013 track "At All." Impressed by Aminé's rendition, Kaytranada extended a hand to collaborate officially, leading to his production contributions on three songs from Aminé's 2015 mixtape, Calling Brio. The upcoming album showcases the pair reigniting their innate chemistry, further solidifying their musical bond.

Hypnotize Minds is proud to present Kingpin Skinny Pimp's King Of Da Playaz Ball on a limited edition orange crush double vinyl! Featuring classic Memphis rap such as "Lookin' for Da Chewin'" and "One Life 2 Live (feat. DJ Paul & Juicy J)"

Deli Daydreams' is a conceptual LP based around a week in the life of a Deli worker. Varying styles from the spoken word tour de force introduction of 'White Noise' to the melancholic vibes of 'Eviction Notice'.

Italian producers Lenny Loops and stream_error have collaborated for a long time to bring you ‘Noctilucent’. Mellow piano chords and pearly ambience stretch out across the sky mesmerizingly, and fellow producer Sleepermane makes multiple appearances, bringing along signature synths and pads that make it sound even more other-worldly. The album feels like watching shooting stars in a star-freckled sky on warm summer evenings.

LA-based, Dallas-raised artist Liv.e, announces her sophomore album 'Girl In The Half Pearl' due February 10th via In Real Life. 'Girl In The Half Pearl' seizes on both the creative and personal liberation Liv.e has experienced in the time since her 2020 debut album 'Couldn't Wait To Tell You...'. The album's 17 tracks are a document of self-examination, as she works through realizations prompted by grief and grapples with the dynamics of her role in the relationships in her life. Building upon the foundation she laid with Cwtty, 'Girl In The Half Pearl' bares her process of growth, forgiveness and reclamation of her sense of womanhood across an immersive soundscape. The album's artistic shifts developed during her time experimenting with live performance in London earlier this year while under residency at London's Laylow.

The 25-year-old artist first garnered attention with her 2017 EP, Frank, and 2018's Hoopdreams EP. Over the past year, Liv.e shared the standalone Mndsgn-produced single "Bout It," along with a Colors performance and released 'Cwtty+', the deluxe version of her 2020 critically-acclaimed debut album. She's since performed alongside Earl Sweatshirt and Ravyn Lenae. Liv.e's unique sensibilities have also caught the eye of the fashion world, marked by an appearance in a Miu Miu ad campaign photographed by Tyrone Lebon. Most recently, she was featured on the new Mount Kimbie single titled "a deities encore."

Lucid Keys is resurrecting Romanticism in his latest album ‘Fantasia’. The tracklist comprises rich and complex chord progressions bound together by sentimental melodies, to the likes of 19th century chamber music. Piano arpeggios, melodramatic strings and other orchestral elements go hand in hand with typical lofi dusty beats and foley textures - waltzing in careful arrangements, like unlikely dance partners.

New pressing made in Canada

After a brief pause in the Medicine Show series, Madlib returns with a 28-track, full-length hip-hop album of collaborations with AG, Guilty Simpson, MED, Oh No, Strong Arm Steady and others. Karriem Riggins pops in for a short Supreme Team session, Madlib & Oh No debut their group The Professionals, and we hear for the first time a Jaylib-era track from Madlib & Dilla's never-realized second album. Limited edition 3LP contains 14 additional Madlib beat instrumentals.

A Long Hot Summer is the fifth studio album of Masta Ace, and follow up album to Disposable Arts. The album is about Masta Ace's journey as an underground rapper through his "Long Hot Summer" in Brooklyn, together with his unofficial manager and pal Fats Belvedere. This album includes fan favorites such as "Good Ol Love", "Da Grind", "Beautiful", "Bklyn Masala" and guest appearances like Jean Grae, Big Noyd, Wordsworth, Edo G, The Beatnuts, Rahzel and more, along with production from 9th Wonder, Khrysis, DJ Spinna, Dug Infinite, Marco Polo and others. A Long Hot Summer is a classic Ace album through and through.

On 2007’s “Nostalgia,” a memorable track off Marco Polo’s album, Port Authority, chemistry between Polo and guest MC Masta Ace is easily heard and felt. What was a quick one-off collab was not only a reminder of Masta Ace’s timelessness, but it was also the impetus for a larger, more fleshed out concept between the Toronto beatsmith Polo and the legendary MC. The pair since formed a duo and the result is a powerfully evenhanded project, A Breukelen Story.

In 2018 we find hip-hop’s storied journeyman, Masta Ace, at the helm of another sharp, tightly wrought project. He’s traversed hip-hop’s ever-changing landscape for nearly three decades, navigating different eras while expanding his already extensive catalogue. From his formative work with the legendary Juice Crew, to a bombastically renowned stint with Delicious Vinyl, it’s hard to find a more humble master of ceremony than Ace—even harder is finding another figure whose work is equally embraced on both coasts, East and West, as well as abroad.

Despite amassing 7 solo albums, 5 collaborative projects and countless additional one-offs, Ace is still trying to show and prove, still moving the needle forward for himself, his fans, and his career. Says Ace: “My goal on A Breukelen Story was to do more lyrical stuff. I’ve done a lot of concept songs, and a lot of topical records, but I made a point to put a couple straight rhyming joints on here to remind dudes I can still do this.”

“I met Masta Ace for the first time while interning at Cutting Room studios in Manhattan,” says Marco Polo, longtime Canadian producer whose exploration of samples and boom-bap aesthetics certainly suite his moniker. “Ace came in for a session in the studio years and I introduced myself and gave him a beat CD.” While Polo was a young intern on the rise, he quickly worked the situation to his advantage, eventually producing for giants he grew up admiring— Kool G Rap, Large Professor, Scarface, Sean Price, Black Thought, Talib Kweli, to name a few.

Polo is not new to forming quality collabs with others in the art form, with notable stints on the aforementioned Port Authority as well as it’s follow up, PA2, and others like 2016’s work with young MC, A-F-R-O, fittingly titled A-F-R-O Polo. Yet out of Polo’s previous collaborative efforts, this one stands out and is a bit more special, according to Polo: “Ace does not like to write random songs, its usually conceptual and topical,” he says. “But we do have some straight spitting joints on A Breukelen Story which is what makes this album possibly the most diverse of all of my collaborative albums.”

The random meeting and a beat CD resultantly birthed A Breukelen Story, a collaborative release between the venerable veteran and an incredibly detailed and prolific producer. 14 tracks with pronounced guests (Pharoahe Monch on “The Fight Song” for example) all strewn together through Ace’s signature skits and interludes that frame the music and while telling the story of Polo manifesting his vision of being an NY transplant via Toronto while pursuing his dream of being a renowned record producer. Other guests range from younger MCs like Marlon Craft to spry OGs like Lil Fame (of M.O.P.), to Smif ‘n’ Wessun, to Styles P (of the Lox) Polo’s pastiche style boom-bap is the drum-driven centerpiece that perfectly couches Masta Ace’s thoughtful stanzas and vivid storytelling for this effusive Brooklyn narrative. – David Ma

McKinley Dixon calls the late Toni Morrison the greatest rapper of all time; and the way he tackles topics like survival, violence, and religion within the expansive landscape of the Black experience, evokes her novels. It is from the title of Morrison’s Beloved trilogy where he finds the title of his new album with City Slang Records out June 2: Beloved! Paradise! Jazz!? Musically, his household was defined by “artists whose first name was Mary,” including Mary J. Blige and gospel duo Mary Mary. Discovering Outkast was formative for Dixon, deepening his love for hip-hop while he also grew curious about the more theatrical rock of groups of the day, bands like My Chemical Romance and Panic! At The Disco that his Maryland friends introduced him to. “Those groups also helped me with my sense of longing, since their music reflected a sense of longing,” he says. Eventually, he channeled these competing influences into a debut EP he released in 2013. With time, his music became his primary means of self-expression, whether discussing Blackness or his own relationship with healing. Across his next releases, his style evolved, and his confidence grew, especially when it came to live instrumentation. His 2021 debut album For My Mama and Anyone Who Look Like Her was a game changer, as Dixon set his sights on heartache and grief. “I was making these really dense and chaotic songs, stuffing whatever thought I had into five and a half minutes,” Dixon says of that project. Beloved! Paradise! Jazz?! is an attempt at channeling different impulses. Sometimes rough and other times delicate, this record is a journey into is a journey into the psyche of McKinley Dixon, with all the attendant peaks and valleys.

A transatlantic collaboration between five musicians from the UK jazz collective Steam Down (and DoomCannon) plus eight musicians from Colombia's folk, jazz, hip-hop, salsa and electronic scenes and groups such as Ondatropica, Frente Cumbiero and La Perla.
Radio support for first single Arroyo came from Jamz Supernova, Cerys Matthews, Huey Morgan and Jamie Cullum on BBC 6music, 1xtra and Radio 2 – with radio interviews and sessions now confirmed for these 3 shows.

The band's debut live shows are for the album release at London's Village Underground (7.5), Manchester's Band on the Wall (6.5) and Bristol's Beacon (5.5) plus two shows at Brighton's The Great Escape (10-11.5).
BBC Radio Features + Mixes BBC 6music – Cerys Matthews – Member to intro next single - TX March BBC Radio 2 – Jamie Cullum - 'Colombia' music guide from N. Hardem – TX May BBC 6music – Huey Morgan - Block Party Mix - TX May BBC 6music – Jamz Supernova - Live session to be recorded - TX May BBC World Service – Music Life - Member to take part in feature - TX May
BBC Radio Spot Plays 18.2 BBC Radio 1xtra – Jamz Supernova 'Arroyo' spot play 14.2 BBC Radio 2 – Jamie Cullum 'Arroyo' spot play 28.1 BBC 6music – Huey Morgan 'Arroyo' spot play 21.6 BBC 6music – Jamz Supernova 'Arroyo' spot play
Print/online Jazzwise Featured confirmed (May issue) DJ MAG Review confirmed Sounds AND Colours News story THE Prisma News story
Online Reprezent Radio 'Arroyo' spot play Jazz FM 'Arroyo' included on the Jazz FM playlist Music IS MY Sanctuary Mix confirmed
Mestizo is: UK musicians: Ahnansé (Steam Down) - tenor + soprano sax, vocals (UK music director) Shantéh (Steam Down) - vocals Benjamin Appiah (Steam Down) - drums DoomCannon - keyboards, synths, electric guitar Grifton Forbes-Amos (Steam Down) - trumpet
Colombian musicians: Jose Miguel Vega (Ondatropica) - trombone León Pardo (Ondatropica) - trumpet + gaita Diana Sanmiguel (La Perla) - percussion, vocals + gaita Marco Fajardo (Frente Cumbiero) - clarinet + tenor sax Daniel Michel (La Boa) - bass + synths (Colombian music director) Ronal Balanta (Chambimbe) - keyboards, synths, electric guitar + percussion Alejandro Cifuentes (Bandejas Espaciales) - drums + percussion Salomé Gómez Burbano - marimba + trumpet Luis Luque (La Boa) - euphonium N. Hardem - MC

As time moves forward, it becomes increasingly clear that the need for emotional expression through artistry is more important than ever, especially in the wake of emerging AI technology that threatens to replace human creativity. Minus & MRDolly's new album, "Giant Stops," is a testament to the enduring power of art to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. Named in direct reference to arguably one of the greatest albums ever created, "Giant Steps" by John Coltrane, "Giant Stops" pays homage to the rich legacy of jazz while pushing the boundaries of the genre with a contemporary twist. The album seamlessly blends jazz, hip-hop, and electronic elements to create a unique sonic landscape that is both nostalgic and modern. For Minus & MRDolly, "Giant Stops" represents a new chapter in his evolution as a musician, showcasing his growth and commitment to pushing boundaries in his genre-bending style. Taking inspiration from the creative process of Makaya McCraven, the album features dynamic instrumentals backed by a live band, with Minus & MRDolly's signature lyricism and storytelling shining through both the instrumentals and the lended work of guest musician such as Meta_ or Luca Argel. By using this production method the album takes a bold stand for the importance of sampling as an art form hoping to encourage listeners to appreciate the rich history and evolution of hip hop and to recognize the essential role that sampling has played in shaping the genre. As a nod to his Portuguese roots, "Giant Stops" represents a deeper exploration of the artist's identity and a commitment to looking inward to find creative inspiration. With this album, Minus & MRDolly hopes to inspire others to embrace their own unique perspectives and use them to create art that connects with audiences on a deeply emotional level. In a world where technology threatens to replace human creativity, "Giant Stops" is a reminder that the power of art to connect with people on a fundamental level is enduring and will continue to shape our world for generations to come.