US Rap Classics 202 Items

“Straight Outta Compton” is the debut studio album by American hip hop group N.W.A, released August 1988 on group member Eazy-E's record label Ruthless Records. Production for the album was handled by Dr. Dre with DJ Yella giving co-production. The album has been viewed as the pioneering record of gangsta rap with its ever-present profanity and violent lyrics. This was the group's only and final release with rapper Ice Cube prior to his 1989 departure. It has been considered to be one of the greatest and most influential hip-hop records by music writers and has had an enormous impact on the evolution of hip hop.

Limited to 600 copies. A one-time pressing with this cover. An exclusive only available at Fatbeats in the US and HHV for rest of the world. For all DJs, graffiti enthusiasts and collectors. In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Non Phixion’s seminal LP, The Future Is Now, Uncle Howie Records is pleased to announce the release of an acappella version of the album for the first time!
Comprised of group members ILL Bill, Lord Goat (f/k/a Goretex), Sabac Red and DJ Eclipse, The Future Is Now remains the group’s sole full length effort, garnering much acclaim among both critics and fans alike. Considered by many as an underground classic, Tfin boasts a production dream team that includes DJ Premier, Pete Rock and Large Professor, with additional production supplied by JuJu of The Beatnuts, Dave 1 of Chromeo, T-Ray and Necro.

But it’s the production on this release that’s absent from this version, as producers, remixers and deejays the world over will for the first time have access to these previously vaulted acappellas, allowing you to flex your creative ingenuity. In addition to NP vocals, the album features vocal appearances from MF Doom, Necro, The Beatnuts, Al Tariq, Marly Metal and Moonshine.

To boot, what makes this acappella release all the more special, is that the LP jacket will feature an overhauled version of the right half of the never before seen ‘final’ mural illustrated by Mear One. Why just the right half you ask? Well Uncle Howie Records will also be releasing an instrumental version of the album which hasn’t been made available on vinyl in nearly 20 years—also as a 2XLP—which will feature the left half of the mural, making this a true collector’s edition to reel in the milestone!

This acappella version of The Future Is Now is set for release on March 24th via Uncle Howie Records in partnership with Fat Beats Distribution.

First time ever that an acappella version of the album has been made available! Contains bonus acappellas for They Got and Refuse To Lose. When purchased with the instrumental version, both album covers will form an overhauled version of the ‘final’ Mear One designed mural, making this a true collector’s piece.

Limited edition of 300 copies on CD in jewel case.

Originally released in 1997 on CD only, the sophomore album "Everything Is Nice" by Prose & Concepts finally gets the full reissue treatment. The group comprised of MC Dope, SharkE, Mic Dub, Beatnik, DJ Ace and Rawi were sporting the Seattle underground sound of heavy drums and dusty loops paired with cuts back and forth.

In addition, the album includes the "Bass Camp Demo" version of "Higher Places". The original track might be known to diggers from the excellent "14 Fathoms Deep" compilation released on Loosegroove Records in 1996 showcasing the vivid Seattle Hip-Hop scene in the mid-90's.

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

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

incl. The Breaks, ...

Limited edition of 500 copies on gold colored vinyl!

A true fan-favorite finally gets a proper vinyl release, The Grouch's "They Don't Have This". Includes features by The Cuf, Bicasso, PSC and a few more usual suspects.

Limited edition of 500 copies on white colored 2LP vinyl.

The Grouch's sixth album from 2003, "Crusader For Justice", gets its first ever vinyl edition. Being a founding member of the Living Legends crew, The Grouch has made his name from the mid-90's on as one of the leading artists out of the flourishing Westcoast Underground scene. All independently, all DIY. We at HHV are very excited to finally get his full back catalogue out on vinyl, for the first time ever!

European pressing.
'Illmatic' is the debut studio album by American rapper Nas, released in April 1994. Often cited as one of the best hip-hop albums of the '90s, 'Illmatic' is the undisputed classic upon which Nas' reputation rests. It helped spearhead the artistic renaissance of New York hip-hop in the post-Chronic era, leading a return to street aesthetics. Hip-hop fans accustomed to 73-minute opuses sometimes complain about 'Illmatic''s brevity, but even if it leaves you wanting more, it's also one of the few '90s rap albums with absolutely no wasted space. 'Illmatic' reveals a great lyricist in top form meeting great production, and it remains a perennial favorite among serious hip-hop fans.

Limited edition of 300 copies on classic black wax!

Amsterdam native Truffel The Phunky Phaqir is back on da block. A true talented producer on the hand and now a gifted MC on the other as "Dysphunktional" marks the very first release with Truffel behind the boards as well as on the microphone. Dig the classic boombap with tons of Jazz plus features by BlabberMouf, Mad Rev and Capital J.

Limited to 600 copies. A one-time pressing with this cover. An exclusive only available at Fatbeats in the US and HHV for rest of the world. For all DJs, graffiti enthusiasts and collectors. In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Non Phixion’s seminal LP, The Future Is Now, Uncle Howie Records is pleased to announce the release of a special instrumental edition 2xlp.

Comprised of group members ILL Bill, Lord Goat (f/k/a Goretex), Sabac Red and DJ Eclipse, The Future Is Now remains the group’s sole full length effort, garnering much acclaim among both critics and fans alike. Considered by many as an underground classic, Tfin boasts a production dream team that includes DJ Premier, Pete Rock and Large Professor, who had yet to appear credited together on the same album since the release of Nas’ Illmatic.

With additional production supplied by JuJu of The Beatnuts, Dave 1 of Chromeo, T-Ray and Necro, this special edition instrumental offering is sure to be a treasure for both fans of the group, as well as true school audiophiles the world over. To boot, this release marks the first time the instrumentals have been made available on vinyl in nearly 20 years!

Production aside, the LP jacket will be adorned with an overhauled version of the left half of the never before seen ‘final’ mural illustrated by Mear One. Why just the left half, you ask? Well, Uncle Howie Records will also be releasing an acappella version of the album for the first time—also as a 2xlp—which will feature the right half of the mural, making this a true collector’s edition to reel in the milestone!

This 20th anniversary instrumental edition of The Future Is Now is set for release on March 24th via Uncle Howie Records in partnership with Fat Beats Distribution.

First time, the instrumentals have been available on vinyl since 2003! Production supplied by an all-star line-up of DJ Premier, Pete Rock and Large Professor, among others. When purchased with the acappellas, both album covers will form an overhauled version of the ‘final’ Mear One designed mural, making this a true collector’s piece

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 now it's back.

Limited edition of 500 copies on black vinyl 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.

The instant classic "A Long Hot Summer" from 2004 finally gets a proper vinyl reissue on orange colored wax.

Includes features and productions by the likes of 9th Wonder, Big Noyd, Marco Polo, Ed O.G., DJ Spinna, Rahzel of The Roots, The Beatnuts and many more.

One of the essential Rap albums of the 2000 era that shouldn't be missed in any serious Hip Hop vinyl collection!

The instant classic "Disposable Arts" from 2001 finally gets a proper vinyl reissue on blue colored wax.

Includes features and productions by the likes of Paul Nice, Jean Grae, Ayatollah, DJ JS-1, Domingo, Rah Digga and many more.

One of the essential Rap albums of the 2000 era that shouldn't be missed in any serious Hip Hop vinyl collection!

The latest dose of verbal illness from Godfather Don, produced by Debonair P. Featuring 4 new tracks on the A side and 4 remixes on the flip. Comes on black vinyl in a picture sleeve.

Grammy®-nominated hip-hop pioneer Warren G is a Long Beach rapper who formed the legendary group 213 (named after the city's area code) with Nate Dogg and Snoop Dogg, who went on to collaborate with step-brother Dr. Dre on The Chronic (providing the samples for 'Nuthin' But a G-Thang') and contribute the track 'Indo Smoke' with Mista Grimm and Nate Dogg on the Poetic Justice soundtrack. After a lively bidding war, Warren signed to Def Jam, which released his debut album, Regulate... G Funk Era in 1994, with the title track climbing to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. In celebration of Def Jam's 30th Anniversary UMe will be releasing a '20th Anniversary Extended Edition' version with three new EDM remixes by Destructo & Wax Motif, Photek and Jauz.

Too many people sleep on Tougher Than Leather, Run-DMC’s fourth album. But hear us out as we plead the case for this amazing LP.
By 1988 there was a lot more competition in the rap game – Public Enemy, Boogie Down Productions, Eric B. & Rakim, Ice-T and many more had given
Hollis, Queens’ prodigal sons lots of competition. But Joe, Darryl and Jay were still at the top of their game, and hip-hop fans should never let this
classic – chiefly produced by their Queens neighbor, DJ and multi-instrumentalist Davy D[MX] – get lost in their crates.
For starters, the album’s first single, “Run’s House” b/w “Beats To The Rhyme” is arguably the most powerful one-two punch of the trio’s career,
showing contenders to the rap throne that they could still destroy a beat, tag-teaming with power at any speed. Not to be lost in the shuffle, fans were
also reminded on both sides that Jam-Master Jay remained one of the world’s best DJs, flexing the pinnacle of what would be called “turntablism” a
decade later. Both songs show a musical telepathy between all three that has rarely been equaled.
The second single, “Mary, Mary,” driven by an infectious Monkees sample, took a different approach, shrewdly ensuring that pop fans who jumped on
the Raising Hell bandwagon had something to chew on. But, like “Walk This Way,” the song wasn’t just bubblegum – there was an edge to it, and
the lyrical gymnastics were very real. It wasn’t selling out, it was allowing fans to buy in. “Papa Crazy,” driven in concept and by a sample from the
Temptations’ “Papa Was A Rolling Stone,” followed a similar pop-leaning path.
Overall, the lyrical content on the album was a step up from the group’s first three LPs. It’s easy to infer, looking back, that they were feeling the heat
from their younger competitors in the rap game. The genre was changing fast, and they were up to the challenge. On cuts like “Radio Station” they
bring substance to the grooves, by attacking Black Radio for its continual denigration of rap. “Tougher Than Leather” reminds the world that they were
still the Kings of Rock, with hard guitars to drive the point home. And “They Call Us Run-DMC” and “Soul To Rock And Roll” both bring things back to
their early days, with sure-fire park jam rhymes and killer cuts.
Tougher Than Leather, which went platinum up against a lot of competition, perfectly bookends the ‘80s output of one of the decade’s most
important groups. It encompasses the full range of the trio’s capabilities, and reminds us that Run-DMC should never be forgotten as both pioneers
and party-rockers. And so, we say, long live Joe, Darryl and Jay!

Classic boom bap sound in a fresh dress for 2024! Agent Dan & Mr Mile finally teamed up, linked their MPCs, chooped stacks of records and pushed buttons to create some unique muffled and bassy, but full and warm soundscapes! The result are 13 straight banging beats featuring a variety of dope international MCs and polished with tight cutted hooks. The shhhh you wanna hear!

2023 repress.

This fine new edition is limited to 300 copies and come with the beats.

Sean Price (R.I.P!) teamed up with Small Professor for their 10-track project, ‘86 Witness.’ The album features Rock of Heltah Skeltah, scratches by DJ Revolution, Guilty Simpson, Your Old Droog, Reef the Lost Cauze & more.

Indie Exclusive Black Vinyl Edition.

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

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

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

Original artwork edition pressed on 2x140g black vinyl.

One of the greatest albums in HipHop ever with one of the most iconic album covers of all time - right next to Nas' Illmatic and Wu-Tangs "Enter The Wu". How to describe this album with words that have not been used over and over again? Without superlatives? Not possible. It's simply one of the best albums ever, one that every rap fan can talk about with lyrics everyone can quote - or should be able to quote from. From the recording process to the label situation, the legal hustle provoked by the samples, it is not just one story, it's multiple stories surrounding this album.

Cypress Hill III: Temples of Boom is the eponymous third studio album by the American hip hop group Cypress Hill, originally released in 1995 by Ruffhouse Records and Columbia Records. The album was certified Platinum by the RIAA.

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

Fresh new repress on Legacy! One of the greatest albums ever, ever, ever!

An undesputed classic album comes back with the 25th anniversary treatment! Remastered from the original tapes by Bob Power (D'Angelo, De La Soul) plus three remixes by Ceelo Green, Pharrell Williams & J. Cole!

For the first time in a decade Lex are reissuing a limited quantity of Dangerdoom 'The Mouse and the Mask'.

The Lost Tapes is widely regarded as one of Nas' most important albums showcasing his raw lyrical talent and creative genius. This compilation features such stand out tracks as “Doo Rags,” “U Gotta Love It,” and “My Way” among others. The newly remastered 2LP set features all the original tracks from 2002’s original release pressed on premium quality black vinyl with full-color labels featuring classic Nas artwork. Whether you're a die-hard Nas fan or a lover of classic hip-hop, The Lost Tapes is an essential Nas record.

30th Anniversary of the demo tape, limited to 500 copies worldwide. Comes with sticker.

Limited to 200 copies exclusive to HHV customers. Known for his proudly bugged-out delivery and laid-back style, the immensely likeable Declaime, p/k/a Dudley Perkins is pleased to rerelease his debut solo LP, Illmindmuzik on vinyl for the first time since 1999.

Produced entirely by his longtime homie Madlib, the Oxnard-based duo concoct a seriouly funky listening experience that combines Declaime’s delightfully woozy verses centered around crate-digging and mind expanding, over the Beat Konducta’s blunted instrumentals.

Illmindmuzik is a must for fans of Cali underground hip-hop and boasts guest appearances from the likes of the Lootpack, Evidence and more, and includes the stand out singles, “Let It Be Known” and “Roll ‘Em Right.”

Ghost Dog - Original Motion Picture Score, produced by The RZA, is now available on official Vinyl and CD editions! This masterpiece was previously only given a limited Japanese release, and is the first film score produced by The RZA and features appearances by Wu Tang Clan.

The 1990s was a rich vein of classic hip-hop, especially on the East Coast, which rendered some of the greatest works from the likes of Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, Mobb Deep, and many others. Frequently lost in the genre's New York-centric history was Boston's burgeoning hip-hop scene during the 1990s, spearheaded by working class Roxbury native Edward Anderson, best known by his stage name Ed O.G Over the course of his career, which has spanned nearly 30 years, Ed O.G has maintained an admirably strong cult following, and has gone on to work with contemporaries like RZA, KRS-One, Masta Ace, Pete Rock, and Common, while touring the world over, and producing numerous solo and collaborative albums. Ed O.G.'s illustrious career debuted in 1991, with the release of what is arguably his best known album, Life Of A Kid In The Ghetto, a collaboration with his crew, billed as Da Bulldogs (which was actually an acronym for “Black United Leaders Living Directly on Grooving Sounds”), though Ed O.G was clearly the main event. An underrated classic in its own right, Life Of A Kid In The Ghetto runs a gamut of sounds ranging from the introspective conscious hip-hop of "Be A Father To Your Child", to the whimsical boasts of "I'm Different", to deeply political fare like the Ace & Quan and Def Jef-featuring "Speak Upon It", plastered across a backdrop of Joe Mansfield-produced sample-heavy soundscapes, which snatched clips from deep cuts of James Brown, Roy Ayers, and The Delfonics, to name just a few. It also managed to generate Billboardcharting singles out of tracks like "Bug-A-Boo", "Be A Father To Your Child", and "I Got To Have It", which would become Ed O.G's signature track, and sample fodder for 2Pac, De La Soul, and DJ Premier. Get On Down now presents Life Of A Kid In The Ghetto, an unheralded rarity of renaissance hip-hop, reissued on vinyl for the first time since 1991. The audio has been remastered from its original tapes, so every bit and piece of Ed O.G's masterpiece is crisp and clear on wax. An uncovered gem of 90s rap well worth a re-listen or first-time discovery, and a sterling representation of Boston hip-hop.

Freddie is the fourth studio album from acclaimed rapper, Freddie Gibbs. One of the most consistent and polished artists from the blog era, Freddie Gibbs has yet to release an album that does not achieve widespread acclaim, proving that he’s able to compete in any era. At 10 tracks, the album comes at a blistering yet concise pace, showcasing his raw and energetic flow over thundering trap-influenced beats. Aside from a tasteful appearance from 03 Greedo, Freddie Gibbs mainly relies on himself to carry the album, and features production from hip-hop heavyweights such as Kenny Beats, Dupri, RichGains and more. Marking the 5 year anniversary since release, Freddie is back in print for the very first time.

Limited edition of 500 copies on regular black vinyl with printed inner sleeves.

"Mathuniversal" marks the transatlantic collaboration of iconic Toronto-based MC Mathematik and Paris-based producers slash brothers Parental and Lex (de Kalhex). The album contains 10 tracks plus 9 instrumental versions and should not be missed by any true school head out there.

Available in a limited run each on regular black 2LP, translucent green 2LP, CD in digipak, cassette as well as digitally on all major platforms.

Strictly limited edition of 500 copies on black vinyl in gatefold outfit.

"God Sound" was the sophomore album of the Boogiemonsters from 1997, being a duo then consisting of Vex Da Vortex and Mondo McCann after their debut "Riders Of The Storm: The Underwater Album" from 1994 as a four-men crew. The album production was mostly handled by themselves, additional beats were provided by Domingo, John Doe and Caspa. Features included Philly poetress Bahamadia as well as Tysha.

"God Sound" is not the cliched distillation of sophomore album angst that has become the norm in modern day artistry. Unlike many musicians who feel pressed to release a second album, Mondo & Vex took their time, honed their production skills and solidified their personal situations. Like God's true sound - that tree growing in the midst of urban decay; the sunflower making its way through a crack in concrete, a sunshower dissipating the dirt, grime and heat of a hot summer day - "God Sound" flourished around advents of human civilization.

Strictly limited edition of 500 copies on clear vinyl in gatefold outfit.

"God Sound" was the sophomore album of the Boogiemonsters from 1997, being a duo then consisting of Vex Da Vortex and Mondo McCann after their debut "Riders Of The Storm: The Underwater Album" from 1994 as a four-men crew. The album production was mostly handled by themselves, additional beats were provided by Domingo, John Doe and Caspa. Features included Philly poetress Bahamadia as well as Tysha.

"God Sound" is not the cliched distillation of sophomore album angst that has become the norm in modern day artistry. Unlike many musicians who feel pressed to release a second album, Mondo & Vex took their time, honed their production skills and solidified their personal situations. Like God's true sound - that tree growing in the midst of urban decay; the sunflower making its way through a crack in concrete, a sunshower dissipating the dirt, grime and heat of a hot summer day - "God Sound" flourished around advents of human civilization.

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

Remastered!

Official and limited reissue on Def Jam. ‘undun‘ is the 10th studio album from legendary hip-hop band The Roots originally released on 2nd December, 2011. The Grammy® nominated album (best rap album) incorporates neo soul and indie music elements. It is an existential concept album about the short, tragic life of fictional character Redford Stevens, set in urban poverty, and is told through a reverse-chronological narrative. undun received widespread acclaim from critics, who praised its existential subject matter, production quality, and the band’s musicianship. It was included on several critics’ year-end lists of best albums. Previously released as a 2LP set, this version has now been converted to 1LP, in addition to a limited edition CE color vinyl version.

The album Tribe Called Quest wanted to make from the very beginning. It's their most even, consistent album of the original trilogy that also includes People's Instinctive Travels... and the Low End Theory. But in spite of this, or maybe because of it, it's also their most uninteresting. With so many competent tracks, there's no chance for something to stand out above the pack, like "Scenario" did on Low End Theory or "Can I Kick It" did on People's Instinctive Travels. The celebration is there ("Stir It Up"), the jazz drums kick ("Oh My God"), and the stand-up bass dribbles, keeping perfect pace with Q-Tip's unmistakable mic-touch ("Electric Relaxation"). There's even a Native Tongues armistice/reunion with de la Soul ("Awards Tour"). Although it comes together like a seamless tutorial in jazz hip-hop style, it comes together so damn well that it's hard for any one track to excel, cursing the album with consistent quality.

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

Oh yes, next big surprise release by King Kendrick called "Untitled Remastered".

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

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

OutKast's debut album shows one of the most distinctive production sounds in the '90s: part hip-hop; part live, Southern-fried guitar licks and booty-thick bass runs; and part lazy, early-'70s soul.

Classic Cube album. Must have album for a great price.

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

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

180 gram audiophile vinyl / GOLD CERTIFIED ALBUM FEATURING THE SINGLES “FUNKY BEAT”, “ONE LOVE” AND “GROWING UP” / PRODUCED BY LARRY SMITH / LIMITED EDITION ON SMOKEY COLOURED VINYL

About the Artist
Back in Black is the third album by American hip hop group Whodini. The album was certified Gold in the US and spawned three singles; “Funky Beat”, “One Love” and “Growing Up”. All singles charted in Billboard’s Hot R&B/ Hip-Hop Songs. Like the group’s previous work, Back In Black is produced by Larry Smith, who also co-produced with Russell Simmons on Run-DMC. Back In Black is available as a limited edition on smokey coloured vinyl. Tracklist: Side A: 1. Funky Beat 2. One Love 3. Growing Up 4. I’m A Ho Side B: 1. Fugitive 2. Echo Scratch 3. Last Night (I Had A Long Talk With Myself) 4. The Good Part

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.

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.

In listing the greatest albums in hip-hop history, one title never seems to stray from the upper echelons, no matter how many years pass: Boogie Down Productions’ undisputed classic from 1986, Criminal Minded. Released amidst a battle between BDP and MC Shan that would redefine the New York rap landscape as it was then known, the album, which features the songs “South Bronx,” “Criminal Minded” and “The Bridge is Over,” captures the excitement, urgency and raw power that embodies hip-hop culture as we know it, with KRS-One’s aggressive yet intelligent lyricism backed by Scott La Rock’s hard-hitting, stripped-down beats. A true classic, Criminal Minded has been recognized by Vibe Magazine, The Source and Rolling Stone as one of the most important albums of all time. Traffic Entertainment Group and B-Boy Records are proud to present Criminal Minded, presented in a double-LP pressing.

Limited to 1000 copies on black / blue vinyl.

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.

Limited edition of 500 copies on black vinyl.

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

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

Regular 2LP edition with printed innersleeves instead of gatefold and without the 7".

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

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

Regular 2LP edition with printed innersleeves instead of gatefold and without the 7".

"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.

'Illmatic' is the debut studio album by American rapper Nas, released in April 1994. Often cited as one of the best hip-hop albums of the '90s, 'Illmatic' is the undisputed classic upon which Nas' reputation rests. It helped spearhead the artistic renaissance of New York hip-hop in the post-Chronic era, leading a return to street aesthetics. Hip-hop fans accustomed to 73-minute opuses sometimes complain about 'Illmatic''s brevity, but even if it leaves you wanting more, it's also one of the few '90s rap albums with absolutely no wasted space. 'Illmatic' reveals a great lyricist in top form meeting great production, and it remains a perennial favorite among serious hip-hop fans.

The second (and final) album from Fugees, originally released in February 1996. A 13 song double album, reissued on limited gold/orange mix vinyl.

Critically acclaimed debut album, originally released by Loud Records in November 1993. A 12 track reissue on single yellow Colored Vinyl!

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

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

In the 4 years after The Clipse dropped their sophomore classic Lord Willin’ the duo was able to build a legacy that had
fans hungry for new material. After the smoke cleared and they hit the studio the Virginia brothers recorded the confidently mature sophomore effort, Hell Hath No Fury. Best known for
their unconventional radio smash “Grindin’,” Clipse are no strangers to taking risks with the boundary-pushing Neptunes, who return as trusted co-pilots for Hell Hath No Fury. As
always the duo is right at home over The Neptunes crafted beats which perfectly embrace Pusha’s inventive drug-game
metaphors and Malice’s soul-baring confessionals.

From the bouncy lead single “Mr. Me Too” and the Slim Thug assisted “Wamp Wamp” to the oddly haunting "Keys Open
Doors" to "Momma I'm Sorry", Hell Hath No Fury represents some of the duo’s best work. On the hypnotic “Keys Open
Doors,” over the eerie mix of screwed-up angelic voices, chimes and congas, the brothers run circles around the
competition, while the spine-tingling boom-bap of “Ride Around Shining” sets the stage for Pusha’s hilarious boasts.
Whether rhyming over distorted, lo-fi guitar plucks (“Dirty Money”) or overblown 808s (“Trill”), the brothers come with colorful references and inventive word play that easily places
them in a lyrical class of their own. Get On Down now proudly issues this Neptunes produced favorite on LP for the first time ever with the first run on white vinyl.

Undeniable classic of 90s New York hip hop!

20th Anniversary reissue of El-Ps debut he released to critical acclaim after Company Flow split up. Now famous for his work with Killer Mike for Run The Jewels. This HHV exclusive edition is limited to 500 copies.

Debuted #198 on Billboard Top 200 in its original release
8.9 review on Pitchfork
Ranked #11 top album of 2002
#21 hip-hop album of all time by Fact Magazine

Fantastic Damage marked the beginning of El-P’s career as a solo artist, following a groundbreaking career as frontman and producer of legendary NYC underground hip hop crew, Company Flow. Fan Dam was a foundational release for his fledgling record label. Definitive Jux, which would soon establish itself as an iconic juggernaut of independent rap in the wake of trailblazing solo records by El-P and label mates Aesop Rock, Cannibal Ox, RJD2, Murs, and more. The template El-P established on Fantastic Damage - a singular aesthetic pairing futuristic, post B-Boy production style with insightful, provocative & often prescient subject matter - was met with accolades across the media landscape, including Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, Pitchfork, NME, VIBE, and SPIN among many others. The impact and influence of Fantastic Damage established it as one of the most important independent releases of its era, and charted a course to be followed by generations of artists in its wake. The album has been widely unavailable since El-P put Def Jux on hiatus in 2010, making it ripe for rediscovery in the new music ecosystem due to El-P’s monumental success with Run The Jewels.

DJ Quik is a giant of West Coast hip-hop. With 1995’s Safe + Sound, he scaled new levels of musical magnificence with his signature new age P-Funk/laconic G-Funk. A quintessential, sun-scorched LA album, this is pretty much essential. Typical for mid-90s albums the original vinyl copies are now rare so here’s the Be With re-issue, complete with “Tanqueray”, the hidden track from the original CD release. A preternaturally gifted producer/rapper, DJ Quik has produced scores of LA gangsta rap classics. He’s released platinum and gold records of his own, as well as helped craft them for the likes of Tupac, Snoop Dogg, and Dr Dre. Quik has always been quirkier and more interesting than his gangsta rap peers, both musically and lyrically. An old-school funk producer at heart, he’s also incredibly nice on the mic. His raps often deal in boasts, jokes and good times but also cover his beefs, his trials and his trauma. Partying and pain, all mixed up. DJing and producing hype beat tapes from age 14, Quik’s tracks blended the languid funk and rubbery synths of Zapp and George Clinton with a gangsta aesthetic, creating a more danceable foil to Compton’s more typical nihilistic hedonism. Ultimately, his records sound custom enginee

Limited to 200 copies. Originally released on June 3rd, 1997, Coalmine Reissues in partnership with 420 Music is pleased to announce this first ever reissue of Teflon’s debut LP, My Will. As a member of M.O.P.’s First Family, Teflon first made his bones in the late ’90s New York rap scene, where he was first heard on M.O.P’s sophomore offering, Firing Squad. The following year, Teflon would go onto release his long awaited debut LP. Standing at ten tracks, My Will allowed for fans to further discover the artistic range of the gruff-voiced lyricist hailing from Brownsville. Surprisingly, the record offered a contrasting style from the hardcore sound listeners have come to from M.O.P. Nonetheless, the Brooklyn native provides plenty of roughnecks, braggadocio flavor and surprisingly meaningful rhymes. But it’s perhaps most notably the strength of his delivery that allows Teflon to carry My Will from start to finish. In “Sh*t Happens,” an incarcerated Teflon calls to check in with his girl over woeful strings coupled with a moody bassline. Never out of our sight are M.O.P.’s Lil Fame and Billy Danze, who spew their aggressive rhymes on a few tracks—most notably, the crunching “Rawness”—while adding their menacing voices to a number of the choruses, and supply the most punishing beats on the album (“My Planet,” “Ni**a What”). My Will is a promising first effort that preceded the Brooklyn rapper’s buzz, which would reach its pinnacle in 2000 for his appearance on M.O.P's "Ante Up (Remix)” alongside Busta Rhymes and then fledgling star, Remy Ma. This cameo led to a deal with Def Jam Recordings that was brokered by Teflon’s long time friend, DJ Premier. After a turbulent transition within the company, Teflon’s Def Jam debut failed to see the light of day, and the Brooklyn rapper took a much needed hiatus from the industry, where he would return in 2023 with his well-received sophomore LP, 2 Sides To Every Story, produced by both DJ Premier, along with talented up and comer, Jazimoto.

Limited edition of 300 copies on green vinyl.

Awesome release by Taha. It's Paula Perry with her shelved 1998 album. Officially licensed, dope first pressing on vinyl.

HHV Exclusive, limited to 500 copies.

Masta Ace joins forces with the metal faced MF Doom for Son of Yvonne, a highly personal concept album that celebrates the life and legacy of Ace’s recently departed Mother. Like his 2004 landmark Disposable Arts, Son of Yvonne is meticulously constructed with stories, settings, and characters that resonate with flesh and bone humanity. Interstitial vignettes provide a thematic backbone to the experience, and each track complements and completes the previous to form a narrative whole: a sometimes visceral, sometimes nostalgic slice of Ace’s young life in Brownsville, Brooklyn.

Entirely underscored by MF Doom’s iconic Special Herbs instrumentals, Son of Yvonne features the Juice Crew general Big Daddy Kane, newcomers Pav Bundy (The Bundies), Reggie B and even MF Doom on the mic. It’s Masta Ace’s no frills flow, however, that looms largest above the dusty samples and digger loops that define Doom’s production. Ace’s photo-realistic rhymes about stick-up kids, spraycan artists and wack emcees add extra gravity to his already celebrated reputation as “truly an under-appreciated rap veteran and underground luminary” (Allmusic Guide). Like Eminem recalls in his 2008 autobiography The Way I Am, “Masta Ace had amazing storytelling skills. His thoughts were so vivid.”

Classic Stons Throw album, all productions by Madlib and artwork by the one and only Jeff Jank!

Gang Starr is undoubtedly one of the most revered, beloved and influential groups in Hip Hop. Over the course of their distinguished career, they became a cultural institution and a brand you could ultimately trust. With a handful of indelible classic albums on their resume, DJ Premier and Guru’s catalogue has not only persevered but mastered the test of time. Simply, Gang Starr did not follow trends, they created them. Album includes guest spots from: M.O.P, Q-Tip, Royce da 5’9”, Jeru The Damaja, J. Cole, Ne-Yo, Nitty Scott, Talib Kweli, Big Shug & Freddie Foxxx! Entirely produced by DJ Premier!

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

Madlib beats meet The Villain on top of his lyrical power. If you don't like this one you don't like hip hop. Period!

Pressed ON Orange Colored Vinyl With Hand Numbered OBI Limited TO 1000 Copies 2023 is the year of Too $hort at Get On Down with our 4th reissue and album number 7 in the catalog of the Bay Area legend. Shorty The Pimp was released 31 years ago on July, 14, 1992 and has not been in print since we originally reissued it on wax in 2018. Taking the title from the incredibly rare 1973 Blaxploitation film, Too $hort does what he does best on Shorty The Pimp: funk beats, boastful braggadocio, a few conscious rhymes and layers of straight up pimp talk. The lyrical content can certainly be considered comical and entertaining. Shorty The Pimp is also a stand out project for producer Ant Banks who did many of the beats for the project, his first working with Too $hort with many more to follow over the next decade.

The Muggs Presents The Soul Assassins (Chapter 1)album was originally released in 1997 and is produced by DJ Muggs. It features tracks from a veritable 'who's who' list of rappers like Dr. Dre & B Real, Mobb Deep, RZA/GZA & Genius (Wu-Tang Clan), Krs-One (Boogie Down Productions), Goodie Mob plus contributions from his Cypress Hill fellow band members B-Real and Sen Dog.

Before Madvillain, before Yesterday’s New Quintet and before Quasimoto or any other of his several alter egos, Madlib perfected his craft as an MC/producer in the Lootpack. Along with DJ Romes, and fellow rhymer Wildchild, they released the dusty full-length, Soundpieces: Da Antidote back in 1999, that laid down the foundation for the unique and dusty sound now associated with Madlib. The loose, freeform recordings on this collection, The Lost Tapes, are circa 1996 when the group was managed by Madlib’s father, and they show the now-renowned maverick producer in comparatively restrained form. Madlib’s scope and imagination was clearly fixated on East coast jazzy hip-hop production from the early ’90s, laying down soundscapes for his hungry crew including the likes of Kazi, Oh No, Kan Kick, Declaime and Medaphoar, who have all become well known underground rap vets. Madlib’s own strong mic presence is noticeable given his now only-on-rare-occasion rhyming, but it’s his production that is the most fascinating element here. While a resolutely hip-hop project, the burgeoning jazzy flourishes and Madlib’s heavily accomplished ear for sound makes the record an important starting point for adherents of his more recent exploratory work.

Repress ! Somewhere in between the rock-star mischief of the Beastie Boys and the slow-creeping funk of Dr. Dre, Cypress Hill introduced their hazy-eyed sound to the world on their self-titled 1991 debut and things have never quite been the same since. The original Cypress Hill album captures the group at their risk-taking best, mixing gangster posturing, LA street politics, Latin flavor and warped humor together under a thick cloud of weed smoke and innovative beats. Nasal-voiced rapper B-Real and his partner Sen Dog, backed by the adventurous production styles of DJ Muggs, produce classics records like "How I Could Just Kill a Man," "Pigs," "Stoned is the Way of the Walk" and "Hand on the Pump." Since its release, the album has won acclaim as one of Rolling Stone's "Essential Recordings of the 90s" and "Top 100 Best Rap Albums" by The Source magazine.

Fresh 2023 repress of this gem. Jurassic 5 flexed serious old-to-the-new muscles in the ‘90s, beginning with their independently released single “Unified Rebelution” in 1994, and book-ending with their stellar debut full-length: 2000’s Quality Control. They walked a tightrope between underground and mainstream hip-hop, and toured alongside rap peers as well as punk rockers on the Vans Warped Tour. With double the pleasure of your average hip-hop group – two DJs and producers (Cut Chemist and DJ Nu-Mark); and four MCs (Chali 2na, Akil, Marc 7 and Zaakir aka Soup) – they brought the late 1970s “unison MC” style of pioneering groups like the Fantastic 5 and the Force MCs to a new generation. Even more surprisingly, they did so out of Los Angeles, whose hip-hop flavors generally leaned towards Gangsta, G-Funk or Electro lines. Musically inventive and lyrically forward-thinking, each song on Quality Control is a new adventure, exploring engaging territory, delivered via one of the best live hip-hop shows fans had seen in years. From singles like the strutting groove of the title track to the throwback doo-wop samples on “The Influence” and the catchy, keyboard groove-driven “World of Entertainment (WOE Is Me),” to deeper album tracks like the lyrical gymnastics of “Jurass Finish First” and the thought-provoking “Lausd,” Jurassic 5 consistently stepped to the plate and their fans responded in kind, nearly pushing the album to Gold status. Add the innovative DJ-and-sample workout which closes out the album, “Swing Set,” and you have one of the 2000s’ most unique and solid full-length platters.

R.I.P. Trugoy the Dove

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

Despite an excellent debut album, "Naughty By Nature" was pegged as a one-hit wonder by some, after all, they'd never duplicate the inescapably catchy "O.P.P.". But when 19 Naughty III was released on February 23, 1993 with the lead single "Hip Hop Hooray, " the group proved that they could recreate that magic. Celebrating it's 30th Anniversary this year, the album has been certified platinum and "Hip Hop Hooray" has become a hip hop anthem. The single was #1 on the charts, earning the band their second Top 10 hit, with the video directed by Spike Lee, featuring appearances from Tupac Shakur, Run-DMC and more. The album also contains the hits "Written on Ya Kitten" and "It's On" and has guest appearances from Heavy D and Queen Latifah. Production was handled entirely by group member KayGee, who has one foot in the clubs and the other one on the street corner, and that's true of the group as a whole.