The X-Ecutioners "X-Pressions"
The debut album from the world-class turntablists hit you with 22 tracks of some tight scratch arrangments. The crew of Mista Sinista, Rob Swift, Roc Raida and Total Eclipse drop shop wit some ill hip-hop produtions Feat.{E.Bros, Kukoo,among othas} and discussions about turntablism philosophies from the DJs themselves. This is one of the few full length LPs where the DJs take center stage. There are one or two joints with some vocal but for the most part its all instrumental. I found this to be an ill album even though i was disappointed with the missing of the what would be complimenting vocals over tight beats. So if your a fan of hip-hop beats and scratches this won't be a disappointment. Peace & Balance!
Reviewed by: **ILL-STARRED**
J-Zone "Music For Tu Madre"
Here is a dope album by this MC called J-Zone. But, J is not only the MC on this project. He also produces, arranged, and mixed this joint as well. This joint is 16 tracks deep and touches all area. He got some funny and ill skits like "FM Blues" and "Who Is J-Zone". Some tight joints on this album includes "The Zone Mission", "So Pretty" feat. Al-Shid, and "Catch 22" feat. Huggy Bear. Yall need to pick this piece up!
Review by: DJF
2Pac & Outlawz "Still I Rise"
Here is another release after the late great 2Pac has left us. This time his crew The Outlawz get some shine since they share this album along with there homeboy Pac. This album has joints that been all over the world on bootleg but don't let that stop you if you heard them already. Cause some of them joints have a whole new beat or a whole new feel to them. Production is handled by 2Pac, Johnny J, Daz, Darryl "Big D" Harper, Tony Pizarro, and others. The illest cut on this album is definilty "Teardrops and Closed Caskets" feat. Nate Dogg. This joint is ill and should be in any 2Pac fans' collection!
Reviewed by: DJF
Acheeka "Music For Musicians"
Here is an album by this crew called Acheeka Tribe who are coming up on the independent/underground tip. The crew is made up by 4 Months, Spam, Realistikk, Periodic, Panic, Fluent, and others. The lead MC 4 Months represent on every track and does a tight job at it too. Female MC Realistikk comes with a nice style on 4 joints as well. There's also a crew cut that includes 4 Months, Panic, Fluent, and Realistikk on "Galatic Idols" which is hella tight. Production is handled by Elusive, 2 Sick, Acheeka Members, and EVS of Subdivision. Definilty a dope album and should be peeped by anyone who loves some ill original music. For more info check out there site at: Acheeka
Reviewed by: DJF
Circular Objects "Upload"
Circular Objects is a group out of the Acheeka Tribe. The members are Panik, Spam, and Periodic. This 10 track album is tight and provides you with some ill lyrics and sick ass beats. Tracks that need to be heard are the title track "Upload", "Life in a Nano Second", and "State of Electroshock". This album is ill and not on the same ol shit like a lot of artists in Hip Hop right now. These MC's bring it on some Sci Fi type lyrics to anything else, very tight. Definilty check it out! For more info on this crew check out: Acheeka
Reviewed by: DJF
Jay-Z "Vol.3 Life and Times of S. Carter"
The king of NYC Jay-Z is back with his 4th album in 4 years. This time he comes with some tight shit all the way thru unlike his past 2 releases. This album comes close to his first album "Reasonable Doubt". Once again, Jay has mad guest appearances. The guest list includes Beanie Sigel, Amil, Mariah Carey, Juvenile, Memphis Bleek, Dr. Dre, and UGK. Hot production by DJ Premier, Rockwilder, Swizz Beatz and some new cats that blessed Jay. My favorite cuts on here on the first three joints "So Ghetto", "Do It Again", and "Dope Man". There are also 2 hidden tracks, "Jigga" (from the Ruff Ryders album) and "Girl's Best Friend". This joint is dope, don't sleep on Jigga for the Y2K!
Reviewed by: DJF
MF Doom "Operation: Doomsday"
MF Doom is back again with his long awaited full length "Operations: Doomsday". Some of yall might remember Doom as Zev Love X of KMD, he also has a verse on the "Gas Face" cut by 3RD Bass. Anyways, Doom is now a solo artist and he bless the world with this hella tight album. He got all the self-produced gems on here like "Dead Bent", "Hey!", and "The MIC". Plus he got some new cuts on here like "Doomsday", "Who You Think I Am?" feat. Monster Island Click, and "?" feat. Kurious Jorge. In my opinion this album is the best of 1999 and it needs to be copped now! Don't sleep on this Hip Hop classic!
Reviewed by: DJF
Skitzofreniks "On My Own Shit"
I appologize to all tha heads sayin' that DJF and myself don't have a more varied aspect on the albums we review. But, we normally hear cuts from the albums before we get em' unless they have good word of mouth so we don't waste money,that's why we normally give good reviews. Aight,anyway comin' forth from the Rebel Alliance crew comes the Skitzofreniks. Straight up and down this is a bangin' album with tracks produced by Eddie Bones except "Sicilians" which was produced from MisterJason from the Porn Theatre Ushers. While Checkmark and guest featuring appearences by Virtuoso,7L & Esoteric,K-No Supreme, MC,REKS,and others make this a bangin' underground classic. Stand out cuts are "Skitzofreniks' State" feat. 7L & Esoteric,REKS,and Virtuoso, "You Want Some More", and "Sicilians". Pick this up mos definetly!! Peace & Enjoy..
Reviewed by: ILL-STARRED
Bizarro "Blacknewave"
Living Legend member Bizarro is back with his new solo album "Blacknewave". Bizarro comes with 20 joints on here, he even has some dope instrumentals on here. Some cuts that I'm feelin on here are "Live and Times", "Whats Next" feat. The Grouch" and "My Collection of Tapes". Bizarro has a dope style on the lyrical tip and he has some really tight production too. Something that is rare in an artists these days. He also has some other guests on here like Nebulus, Shu+, PSC of Mystik Journeymen, and Eligh. The joint is some straight Hip Hop shit that yall shouldn't sleep on. You can order "Blacknewave" at Mystik-Journeymen
Reviewed by: DJF
Goodie Mob "World Party"
Back with there third album is the Goodie Mob with "Word Party". This time around Goodie Mob goes for the party type shit which is hella different for them. Its kinda weird to hear them on songs like the D-Dot produced "Get Rich To This" but then they hit you back with cuts like "Chain Swang". They also messed with Easy Mo Be and Dallas Austin on the production tip which definilty brings them some new sound. But in my opinion, they need to stay with Organized Production who does most of there beats. Another thing that is missin is Dre of Outkast, Cool Breeze, and Witchdoctor, the only Dungeon Family members to appear on this album are Big Boi and the upcoming allstar Back Bone. I won't say this album is garbage, but its definilty on some other shit. But maybe "World Party" might turn out to be one of them albums that get better in time!
Reviewed by: DJF
CMA "Overall"
Here is a duo debut album by The Grouch and PSC of the Mystik Journeymen titled "Overall". Yall probably know by now that I'm a big fan of the Living Legends, and I gots to say that this joint is the second best album of the year. Majority of the production is handled by The Grouch and he comes correct on every joint. And as far as lyrics go, PSC and The Grouch hold it down. They just on some everyday life type ish, none of that thug/player type ish that is goin on right now. Some stand out cuts include "Overall", "Free Will" and "Souledout". Don't sleep on these cats!
Reviewed by: DJF
DMX "And Then There Was X"
Back once again is DMX with his third album "And Then There Was X". This album is nothin really different then the last two joints, its on some thug type ish that is gettin hella boring now. There are a few aight cuts on here like "What These Btiches Want" and "One More Road To Cross" but thats about it. A lot of the production is sounding like the same shit now. Of course Swizz Beatz got joints on here and so does Irv Gotti, Dame Grease, and P. Killer Trakz. There is this one cut that really doesn't belong on here titled "Good Girls, Bad Guys" its just some wack bullshit that is really for the radio. DMX has the chance to really make things happen with his voice but he needs some different producers. Maybe they should get with Erick Sermon since they like to reuse his beats so much? Even though this will sell, it doesn't have the fire like his first joint did.
Reviewed by: DJF
7L & Esoteric "Speaking Real Words" EP
Here is something dope that wasn't known about, an EP from Boston's own 7L & Esoteric. "Speakin Real Words" has 7 tight tracks that features the title cut with Inspectah Deck, "Bound To Slay", and "Learn From The Druid" plus four other cuts. The EP is solid from beginning to end and is also a dope introduction to anyone that hasn't heard bout these cats yet. Cause 2000 will be a big year for them with there LP "The Soul Purpose". On the production tip, shit is tight with beats by Vinal Reanimators and Beyonder. Definitly check for this joint that is in stores now!
Reviewed by: DJF
Eligh "Gas Dreams"
DMX isn't the only cat that can put out two albums in one year, cause Eligh did it too. "Gas Dreams" is 16 joints deep and hella tight with hella tight production all by Eligh. Guest artists on "Gas Dreams" is thick too, with MCs like Scarub, Mystik Journeymen, Del, Basic, Pep Love, The Grouch, ASOP, and Reef-Dawg all making ill appearances. Stand out cuts include "Actors Have No Friends", "A Lesson Garden" and "Soul-Man". This is another underground classic from the Living Legend crew, so don't sleep!!!
Reviewed by: DJF
Juvenile "Tha G-Code"
Back with another solo album is Cash Money's Juvenile. This time around "Tha G-Code" is all new material, I believe the last album was out way before Universal Records released it. "Tha G-Code" is 16 cuts deep and the Big Tymers and Hot Boys are make mad appearances up on here. Production is handled by the one and only Mannie Fresh, this joint brings some new shit by Mannie too. I felt that some of the other recent releases had the same sound to it but most of the cuts on here got they own sound. Some of the hot cuts on here is "U Understand" and "Take Them 5". If your a fan of Cash Money then you'll love this joint!
Reviewed by: DJF
Mic Lord EP
Here is a dope debute from a tight new MC from New Jeru. His name is Mic Lord and he has a 10 song EP that should make some underground noise in 2000. Mic Lord has a dope style and you can even check it for yourself at http://hiphop-elements.com for the real audio. And the production is dope as well. Check it out when it drops!
Reviewed by: DJF
Lil Cease "The Wonderful World Of Cease A Leo"
The solo debute from Biggie Smalls hypeman and Junior Mafia member Lil Cease finally happenes. Lil Cease is definilty not a great MC but he does aight on this joint. He is on some street shit like his late homeboy Biggie which is tight. And he has some dope joints on here like "More Dangerous" feat. Busta Rhymes and "4 My Niggaz" feat. Jay-Z. But then there is some wack shit on here like a few player type cuts, Puffy is excutive producer so that would be no surprise for that shit. Production is handled by Puffy's team The Hitmen and majority of it is aight. Even though this album is aight, Cease is much better when he is rhymin bout some street shit and thats where he need to stick with on his next album if that ever happens.
Reviewed by: DJF
Count Bass D "On The Reels"
Back with a new 3 song single is Nashville's Count Bass D. The first joint "On The Reels" is hella tight, Count rips the shit out of it on the lyrical tip and also blesses production. The second track which is also another Count produced cut, "Piece Of The Pie" is a lil posse cut featuring Esoteric and Virtuoso. All 3 MC's rip it and the beat is nice once again. And finally the third cut is "Violation" which is a tight remix by The Mighty V.I.C. I definilty recommend to pick it up at any online site now. The LP should be off the fuckin hook!
Reviewed by: DJF
The Notorious B.I.G. "Born Again"
Puffy is back again with a 2nd released album since Biggie's death. Even though a lot of heads are mad at Puff for releasin Biggie material, I think its cool cause there are a lot of people that would like to hear the shit that never made the other two albums. The production is handled by several producers from Puffy's Hitmen to DJ Premier to even New Orleans Mannie Fresh. A lot of joints got some hella tight beats but the party/player cuts are kinda on the wack tip. Some stand out cuts include "Dead Wrong" feat. Eminem, "Rap Phenomenon" feat. Redman and Method Man, and my personal favorite "Who Shot Ya". The only problem to this album is there are only two solo cuts. Hopefully next time, will hear more solo joints cause I know Puffy got over 50 songs by Biggie. But anyways, check this one out!
Reviewed by: DJF
Memphis Bleek
Here is the first MC besides Jay-Z to have an album out on Rock-A-Fella Records. This is of course Jay-Z's young prodigy Memphis Bleek. All I can say is Bleek got a tight flow and he definilty holds it down with the street tales. Production is pretty tight too, the only well known producer on here is Swizz Beatz. Imagine if Primo did some beats for this kid? Shit would be hot to death! Some ill cuts are "Who's Sleeping", "Stay Alive In NYC" and "Regular Cat". There are a few colllaborations on here too, like "What You Think Of That" feat. Jay-Z, "My Hood To Your Hood" feat. Beanie Sigel, and "Why You Wanna Hate For" feat. Noreaga. I think Memphis is an ill cat, and could bring some more dope joints in the future for Roc-A-Fella Records. So check this kid out!
Reviewed by: DJF
Del The Funky Homosapien "Both Sides Of The Brain"
Back with his long awaited 4th solo albm is Del The Funky Homosapien. First off, production is mad nice on here. Del produces majority of the joints on here plus guest production by Casual, Domino, EL-P, Prince Paul, Khaos Unique, and A-Plus. With 19 cuts on here there is definilty something that anyone could dig. My favorite cut on here is "Press Rewind", Del rips shit on that track. Other dope cuts is the collaboration cut with El-P of Company Flow titled "Offspring". And of course the Prince Paul produced track "Signature Slogans" is hella tight! Dope guest appearances on here by Casual, EL-P, Khaos Unique, and A-Plus of Souls Of Mischief. This album should make a lot of noise for the Hiero camp when it drops so definilty cop this when in March 2000!
Reviewed by: DJF
Q-Tip "Amplfied"
One year later after the end of A Tribe Called Quest we get a debute solo album from Q-Tip! When it first hit the hands of other reviewers and listeners over the net, I heard a lot of negative ish about this joint. Plus, a lot of heads aint feelin Tip's singles "Breathe And Stop" and "Vivrant Thing". So I was really expecting a wack album but it turns out to be aight. Production is handled by Tip and JayDee plus 2 tracks by DJ Scratch, and I'm feelin just bout all of the cuts on the production tip. As far as the lyrical side, Tip does aight. Tracks that I'm really feelin are "Lets Ride", "N.T." feat. Busta Rhymes, and the bonus cut "Do It, Be It, See It". Even though this album will sell great to the mainstream it will not really be too accepted by the underground. So the choice is yours!
Reviewed by: DJF
Rakim "The Master"
Rakim Allah is back with his new album "The Master" for 1999. A lot of people felt that Rakim didn't bring like he should of on the last joint, but my thoughts was different, he did. And he does on the new joint as well. He has a couple of joints with R&B hooks but you got to do something to keep up with everyone else and get some radio play. But, Rakim does bring the ill shit on joints like "Flow Forever", "When I Be On Tha Mic", and "Its A Must" feat. Rahzel. The best cut on this album is "Strong Island" where Rakim brings it back home to Wyandanch and just spits bout how it is out in L.I. Production is handled by DJ Premier, Clark Kent, and others. Don't sleep!
Reviewed by: DJF
Everlast "Today" EP
Everlast aka Whitey Ford is back with an EP for the 4th quater. On this EP, Everlast brings you 5 cuts. The first joint is a remix to "Today (Watch Me Shine)" which is almost like the original. The next joint is "Put Your Lights On" with Santana which is another alternative/Hip Hop joint. Then you got two live versions of "What Its Like" and "Jump Around" which are aight. And the final cut is "Blues For X'Mas" which I'm really not feelin all that much. Overall the EP is aight, there is really no Hip Hop on here but if you have an open mind then its worth it.
Reviewed by: DJF
Grimm Real "Demise Of The Clone"
Here is a hot joint by a dope underground/independent MC out of Brentwood, N.Y. named Grimm Real. "Demise Of The Clone" is 18 joints deep and hella tight! Grimm Real also produces and engineers the album as well, the beats are ill. What I really dig is the way Grimm brings out a lot of different types of music in his production. Grimm brings it with the live drums, bass guitar, and sample free originality which is very tight! And on the MC tip Grimm rips it! If you want some jiggy shit, you got the wrong MC. Here you'll get some straight hardcore shit! For more info on Grimm Real then check out his website: Repstyle Ent.
Reviewed by: DJF
Cage "For Your Box"
For all you die hard Cage fanatics you won't have to wait any longer. Cage just released to Ughh.com a special joint including 22 tracks with a mix of Smut Peddler tracks,solo tracks,freestyles,imports,and skits. And you know he had his mark on Eminem as well as a questionable accurence of Everlast. Cage is one that speaks his mind and throughout this piece it is plain to hear. Stand out cuts are "RadioHead", "And So Kiddies", "Agent Orange", and "Daydreams". A throw in bonus is it is autographed by Cage. And minus is that the audio isn't spectacular but nothing that would really be a disappointment. So cop this gem from either Ughh if they haven't sold out cause mine was on back order as it was. Peace to all! Right Right..
Reviewed by: Ill-Starred
Tash "Raplife"
Tha Alkaholik MC Tash is back on the scene with his long awaited album "Raplife". I reviewed the promo copy a few months ago and it wasn't all that. But this final version is definilty one of picks of best album of 1999! Tash hits you with some hella tight collborations with his partners Tha Liks on "Only When I'm Drunker" and "Blackula". Tash also has a session with Outkast, B-Real of Cypress Hill, and Phil Da Agony on "Smokefest 1999". And finally Tash definilty takes it back home with Xzibit and Phil on "True Homies"! E-Swift of Tha Liks and Rockwilder got some dope beats on this joint. And even though a lot of people feel that Tash is crossingover he still keeps it raw! Definilty copp this!
Reviewed by: DJF
Nas "Nastradamus"
Nas is back with his 2nd album of 1999 titled "Nastradamus". Even though Nas is gaining more fans then losing, its still sad to see him go downhill. The way Nas brought it on his first joint will never happen again, and even though he does bring that style back on a few joints on each album it doesn't cure the problem. When Nas is rhyming on the street level ("Shoot Em Up") he is at his finest but when he rhymes on joints like ("Big Girl" and "You Owe Me" feat. Ginuwine") its just wack! Most of the production on here is tight thanks to LES, DJ Premier, and Trackmasters. And I do think this album is much better then his last album "I Am". But there are just a few wack tracks that make this a dope album!
Reviewed by: DJF
Infinite Cycle "Euphoria"
This ill trio out of Augusta, GA brings you there new indepedent album "Euphoria" that is blazing hot! Production is extreamly tight and is handled by the group members Lord Lamont, MikeChekk, and ShortyRaw...plus one cut "Social Problems" is handled by crew member Self-Esteem. Each MC brings you the tight lyrical shit that should not be slept on. And there crew also represents on here that are Blakk, Self-Esteem, and Mel. The stand out cut is definilty "The Exhibition" that you can play over and over again...the beat is hella hot! I would have to say this album is one of my favorite of the year. Definilty check for this group and for more info check out there site: Infinite Cycle
Reviewed by: DJF
Grassroots "Passage Through Time"
I picked up a number of joints at my last visit to Sandboxautomatic and lets just say i wasn't disappointed. Grassroots was one of my best buys even though i only head a couple of joints off the album before hand. The Grassroots album is basically a compilation of joints produced by Canada's finest. With cuts by Ghetto Concept, Saukrates, Choclair, and many more. The album has a very Jazzy feel to it very similar to a Roots album. My favorite cut would be "Kenny's Theme" by Ghetto Concept. All in all this is one of favorite albums and pick for a spot in Hiphop album of the year. Peep this shine!
Reviewed by: Ill-Starred
Malik Shahid "Tears Of Blood"
Malik Shahid aka Crime Master Divine has been doing his thing in Hip Hop for a long time out of Toronto. He left the Hip Hop scene in the early 90's to finish up his education and is now back with his new album "Tears Of Blood". Majority of production is handled by Malik Shahid and the beats are dark but nice. With 20 tracks on the album you get a lil bit of everything from hardcore to revolutionary to spoken word. Stand out cuts include "The War Of The One", "The Chant Of The Warrior", and "War On Satan". For more info on Malik then check out: Malik Shahid
Reviewed by: DJF
Scarab "A Fact Of The Matter"
Living Legend member Scarab brings you his album "A Fact Of The Matter" for 1999. With 16 Elusive produced tracks you know production is on point. And Scarab is on point on the MC tip as well. Some of the illest cuts on the album are "Love Vs. Hate" feat. The Grouch, "Bar Stool Confessions", and "Matters Of The Heart" feat. Eligh. Scarab rhymes more bout life, relationships and other positve issues which is cool for a change. If your a Living Legend fan then this is a must have and if your not then you should check it out as well, there is nothing wack about this album.
Reviewed by: DJF
Subdivsion "The Appetizer" EP
This three man crew out of San Diego, California delivers there new 8 track EP titled "The Appetizer". Evs and crew definilty represent Hip Hop lovely on this EP. There are some really tight tracks on the EP like "Provoke", "Pocket Lint" and "The Charlie Brown Song". There is also dj track by member Kid Dragon titled "Kid Dragon's Fire" that was from the Wake Up Show with Sway and Tech on 92.3 The Beat. Overall, I'm feelin this tape and yall should too. Its now available online so check for it and for more information and to purchase the tape then check out there website at: Subdivision
Reviewed by: DJF
Declaime "Illmindmuzik"
Declaime one star from the LootPack family dropped a gem on us with this. It holds about 12 cuts which was disappointing cause it was a nice effort. Familiar name that he had on their was Evidence which happened to be my listener's choice. When ever Evidence's name appears you know it's gonna be hot. And of course he brought along the LootPack to shine. The beats were a lil' bit better then good but excellant when you turn on the radio. This should definetly be a underground classic. Stand out cut was "Who's Crew" with Evidence,Lootpeack,etc.. Check it ya'll!
Reviewed by: Ill-Starred
Dr. Dre "2001"
Back on the scene is the legendary Dr. Dre with his follow up to his classic album "The Chronic". "2001" is 22 tracks deep and is produced by Dr. Dre, Mel-Man, and Lord Finesse. Just about every song has a guest except for "The Watcher". Most of the tracks are bangin but not as dope as what it was hyped up to be. One thing I felt that Dre should of left along was "Whats The Difference". The orginal was dope and it was just Dre, Hittman, and Eminem. The new version has a new loop in it and features Xzibit instead of Hittman. Don't get me wrong, X to the Z is one of my favorite MC's but the Hittman verse was dope! "2001" is definilty going to be doing a lot of positive things for all the artists who appeared on this album and "2001" will also put the West coast back on top on the major label tip. After listening to this album I can now say that Aftermath is finally provin Death Row Records that they are here to stay!
Reviewed by: DJF
Raekwon "Immobilarity"
Its been 5 years since his classic album, and now Raekwon returns with "Immobilarity". This time around there is no RZA, Ghostface, and other members of WU. We do get two WU guest appearances by Method Man on "Fuck Them" and Masta Killa on "The Table". Other guest appearances are made by American Cream Team, Kim Stephens, and Big Bub. Production is mostly tight except for a few pop cuts. Most of the producers are new cats besides Carlos "Six July" Broady and Pete Rock. And the illest cut on here is definitly the beat by Pete Rock titled "Sneakers"! Overall its aight, nothing great. But there are a few gems on here!
Reviewed by: DJF
U-God "Golden Arms Redemption"
Yo,i'm not about to even front on you with this. Lets just say it's gonna take a while to have confidence in picking up another wu affiliate record for me. Lets see after RZA's first release not one solo album sounded as raw from the clan. Not since Meth's,Rae's,Ghost,GZA,RZA's,Cappadonna,and ODB's fist solo effort did an album from them sound tight. I've yet to get ODB's new one i have a feelin that might be a lil better. But U-God's album is pretty damn poor..all their shit sounds the same..and unfortunetly the same is poor. Let me just say the best cut is his single. So you might wanna stop after that. It seems like once some groups make it big they give up with the rawness even though that's what made them big. Believe it or not i would have to say leave this one on the shelves. Peace!
Reviewed by: Ill-Starred
Kurupt "Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha"
Back again is DPG member Kurupt with his second solo album in two years. This time Kurupt went back out west for production and style. Production is handled by Daz, Soopafly, Fred Wreck, and Dr. Dre. Its almost a Dogg Pound album cause Daz is on a lot of tracks. Plus Snoop and crew make a few appearances as well. KRS-One makes a dope appearance on "Live On The Mic" that yall need to check for. And the highlight of this album is the bonus cut that yall know bout titled "Callin Out Names" where Kurupt is dissin DMX, Ja Rule, and a few other cats. I'm not sure if this joint will be on the album for the next pressing so yall better pick it up. Check it out!
Reviewed by: DJF
Keith Murray "The Most Beautifullest Hits"
Jive Records finally decided to do something for the Philly Blunt King so they released a greatest hits album! With 14 dope tracks by Mr. Murray, yall need to check for it. There are a lot cuts from other albums then Murray's own shit. You got cuts like "Cosmic Slop" from Redman, "Hostile" from Erick Sermon, and the classic cut "I Show Ya" by LL Cool J feat. Fat Joe, Prodigy, and Foxy Brown. Other cuts include "The Most Beatutifullest Thing In This World", "The Rhyme" and "Dangerous Ground" feat. 50 Grand of LOD. This is a dope lil compilation of Murray's music and I would definilty recommend this to anyone who isn't familar with Keith Murray!
Reviewed by: DJF
Psycho & Rip One Vs. Iriscience & Babu
This was basically a single from Blackberry Records. It has six cuts with five of them bein' the same for the exception of bein clean or just instrumental. It was a battle vibe usin' the same beat with Psycho on one cut then Iriscience on the next. You all know Iriscience from Dilated Peoples,right? Well believe it or not(sarcasim) i would have to give it to Iriscience. It was a give a way even though Psycho did come strong with Rip on the wheels. The beat used by both was definetly hot. Pick it up..it's only about 5$. Peace!
Reviewed by: Ill-Starred
Braille "Lifefirst: Half The Battle"
"Lifefirst" is the first solo album by a new young MC named Braille. First off, the production is hella tight. Dope beats by Celph Titled, Deeskee, DJ Kno, Moodswing9, Kiv, Sixtoo, Big Balou, and Kiilani. And Braille as an MC is definitly on point, bringin a positive vibe to the album and expressing his deep love for God. Some of the stand out cuts are "Half The Battle", "Sentimental Journey", and "Gullet Gambit". "Life First" also offers a dope selection of guest MC's that include Elucid, Daleth, Ethic, Daleth, and Storm The Unpredictable. "Life First" is bangin from opening to closing, don't sleep on this joint! For more info check out ESWP Music
Reviewed by: DJF
Murs "Good Music"
The top lyrical battle MC of Living Legends hits us with his double album "Good Music". Murs comes off hella nice with his straight up street lyrics! What I dig the most is he don't hold back, he expresses his true feelings on everything in this industry. From freestyle to written, Murs is just nice! For example, check out the Elusive produced "Simple". Murs got some tight collborations on here like "Forward Motion" feat. Eligh, Eson, & T.S. and "A Day Like No Other" (Remix) feat. El-P, Shingo02, and Yeshua. Other tight cuts include "24hrs", "LA Story Pt.1", and "Angels" feat. The Grouch. The production is tight on this piece, some of the beats are done by Elusive, Thes-One of PUTS, and Eclipse 427. Definitly copp this joint! For more info check out: Mystik-Journeymen
Reviewed by: DJF
UHBIV: Stop & Retaliate
This joint is a compilation from Mystik Journeymen's label Revenge Entertainment. Representin on this compilation is Living Legends crew (Mystik Journeymen, Grouch, Eligh, Murs, Scarub, Arata, and Bizarro), 427, Kirby Dom, Destrukto, Bored Stiff, Muk, Slant of Cali 9, G-Pac, and K-One. The album is entirly produced by Sunspot Jonz, every joint is hot too! Some of the illest cuts are "Stop & Retaliate" by Eligh, PSC, & Destrukto, "Secrets" by 427, Kirb Dom, & BFAP, and "The Matrix" by Grouch, PSC, & BFAP. Also, there are some dope lil instrumentals called Beatdi Delites. This compilation is a great way for new heads to hear some what the Living Legend are all about! Don't sleep!
Reviewed by: DJF
Saafir "The Hit List"
Oakland, Cali's illest MC Saafir is back with his 3rd album "The Hit List". This joint is packed with 15 hella tight joints. Some of the dopest cuts from the album are "A Dog's Master", "Not Fa Nuthin" feat. Chino Xl, and my personal favorite "Mask-A-Raid" feat. Jayo Felony. He got last year's single "Crawl Before You Ball" and "Hit List" up on here. Some other guests include Kam, Cutthroat, Mr. Doe, and Mahasin. Production is handled by Chris "The Glove" Taylor, Clark Kent, Shock-G, Stevie J, Carlos Broady, Big Nous, J-Groove, and others. This joint is bangin and should not be slept on, so pick it up!
Reviewed by: DJF
Rasco "The Brith"
Cali Agent Rasco is back for 1999 with his EP "The Birth" on his own label Pocketslinted Recordings. The opening cut on here is "Back on The Scene", Rasco just kills that joint. Majority of the album is produced by Chi-Town's His-Panik of the Molemen crew. Protest and Richness have a cut each on this EP too. Production is definitly on point. Planet Aisa makes 2 appearances on here, just check out "Blood Brothaz" and "Final Destination" that also features Flii. Rasco is one of the nicest MC's coming out of Cali so yall best to reconize this cat.
Reviewed by: DJF
MudKids "FourTrackMind"
The MudKids are a group from Indiana blessin' us with a Jurassic Five type feel to em'...Beat wise and also lyrical flow and content. I would give this album about 6 1/2 to 7 stars. I would say it's worth pickin' up. The only thing that turned me from the album was a case or two of weak lyrics. Even though the beats stay kind of the same through out the album you kind of adapt to their mellow layed back soundscape. Nice to smoke the substance of your choice to it..haha.. I'm pretty sure the group has two emcees and then their DJ. Who knew a group from Indiana could come with it? You can pick this unit up at Sandboxautomatic.com . That's my word. Peace
Reviewed By: Ill-Starred
DITC "All Luv"
Diggin In The Crates crew is back with a full length. DITC consists of Diamond D, Show, AG, Lord Finesse, Buckwild, O.C., Fat Joe, and the late Big L. DITC brings you a lil bit of everyting on here, they got some party shit and they got some street shit. For all the heads that didn't hear to much by Big L, you'll definitly get to hear him on here since he is on the majority of the album. Joints like "Where You At" feat. Milano and Big Pun will definitly make this album move units. Other cuts, like the DJ Premeire cut "Thick" will get the crowd open. Other tight cuts include "The Enemy", "Get Yours", and "Drop It Heavy" feat. KRS-One and Big Pun. This joint will be one of the best albums for the Y2K!
Reviewed by: DJF
Buckshot "The BDI Thug"
The general of Bootcamp and lead MC of Blackmoon, Buckshot is back with his first solo album. From the 1st cut "Follow With Pride" to the last joint "Final Words", I'm feelin it. But its not all solo joints, he got some crew cuts like "Take It To The Street" feat. Swan, Half-A-Mil, and others and "Heavy Weighters" feat. Swan and F.T. Buck's homeboy Swan represents on a few other cuts too, which is tight. Buckshot definitly proves that he is one of the illest lyrical NYC MC's in the game right now. Production is tight too, got joints by Boogie Brown, Lord Jamar (of Brand Nubian), DJ Akshun, and Baby Pual of Beatminorz crew. Definitly check out this joint!
Reviewed by: DJF
Inspectah Deck "Uncontolled Substance"
Out from the shadows of the 9th chamber emerges Inspectah Deck. Over the past few years I have lost some interest in the whole Wu-Tang thing. Seems like after the first solo album from each member the next album sucks. So enjoy this album!! I picked up Deck and U-God in the same day and Deck definetly out shines U-God. The long awaited album from this wu soldier definetly fulfills the long wait. It's got close to 20 tracks on it..each near four mins. or longer. The stand out cut for me would be "Movers & Shakers." I give this a strong nine. Definetly pick this gem up!! Production was done all by wu affiliates! Peace and enjoy.
Reviewed By|: Ill-Starred
Eastern Conference All Stars
High & Mighty come back with a 12 track compilation. Some of the cuts like "B-Boy Document" (Original), "Cranial Lumps", and the 2 "Hands On Experience" cuts that are different from the version on the Rawkus release are just cuts that were for the original album. Other cuts include Alchemist feat. Mr. Eon and Evidence "E=MC2", Mad Skillz "Lick The Balls", and the EC All Stars "All In Together" joint. Plus you got the 2 Smut Peddlers' (Cage & Eon) cuts "One By One" and "The Hole Repertoire" on here. If your a fan of High & Mighty like myself, then this definitly belongs in your collection.
Reviewed by: DJF
The Representativz "Angels Of Death"
Boot Camp Click's new duo The Repz are back with there first album "Angels Of Death". This joint is hella tight, this is just another reason why BCC is one of the illest crews from NYC. Supreme and Lidu Rock got some tight lyrics, and Supreme does majority of the production too. This is what I like! BCC fully represents on here on tracks like "Represent Baby" feat. Rock, Cocoa Brovas, Top Dog, and D. Real of The B.T.J.'s. Some of other tight cuts are "You've Been Waitin" feat. Niggy Knock, "The Rich" feat. Tek, and the final track "Dedicated". Go cop this joint and show support of BCC and DuckDown Records!
Reviewed by: DJF
Pharoahe Monch "Internal Affairs"
Pharoahe Monch of Organized Konfusion is back on the solo tip with "Internal Affairs". This is the joint that features NYC's favorite cut "Simon Says (Get The Fuck Up)"! But thats not the only tight cut, there are 14 more. You got the Alchemist produced "No Mercy" feat. MOP, "The Next Shit" feat. Busta Rhymes, and the Remix to "Simon Says" feat. Lady Luck, Redman, Method Man, Shabaam Sahdeeq, and Busta Rhymes. There are some other collaborations to check out for, like "God Send" feat. Prince Po (of Organized Konfusion) and "The Truth" feat. Common and Talib Kweli. My favorite cut is "The Light", this joint is bangin! Production is handled by Pharoahe, Lee Stone, DJ Scratch, Alchemist, and Diamond D. This might be one of the best of 1999, so get the fuck up and cop it!
Reviewed by: DJF
Mos Def "Black On Both Sides"
We been waitin for a Mos Def solo joint since his appearance on the De La album, and now here it is. Mos made shit happen last year with Black Star and it continues on with "Black On Both Sides". Mos even sings on a few songs like "Umi Says", "Rock N Roll", and "Climb" feat. Vinia Mojica. And on the lyrical tip Mos brings it on "Hip Hop", "Love" and "Mr. Nigga" feat. Q-Tip. Guest appearances are also made by Busta Rhymes and Talib Kweli. Production is handled by Diamond, 88-Keys, Ayatollah, The Beatnuts, Ge-Ology, D-Prosper, David Kennedy, Etch-A-Sketch, Mr. Khaliyl, Ali Shaheed Muhammed, DJ Premier, and Mos Def himself. This joint is solid and should be in the final top 5 this year. Check it out!
Reviewed by: DJF
Youngbloodz "Against Da Grain"
Youngbloodz of ATL are definitly doin there thing for the Attic Crew/Dungeon Family. This is just some hot dirty south shit! You got the hit "U-Way" up on here and the next single "85" feat. Big Boi. Production is handled by PA, Attic Crew, Black Market, and Organized Noise. Other tight cuts include "Shakem' Off", "Booty Club Playa", and the "U-Way" (Remix) feat. Lil Wayne. If you like what the ATL is bringin you, then this is definitly a joint to add to your collection!
Reviewed by: DJF
Warren G "I Want It All"
The man behind G Funk production is back with a whole new sound! This is definilty the best album by Warren G. He finally got his ex-Death Row crew back on to represent. Just check out joints like "Gangsta Love" feat. Kurupt, Nate Dogg, & RBX and "Game Don't Wait" feat. Nate Dogg and Snoop Dogg. Warren heads out east to get with Eve and Drag-On for "We Got That" and "I Want It All" (Remix) feat. Memphis Bleek and Drag-On. Warren also comes with some tight solo cuts too like "My Momma" and the hot "Dope Beat". This joint is tight and if you like the west coast then pick this up!
Reviewed by: DJF
Defenders Of The Underworld Compilation
This is a compilation put together by Swollen Members for Battle Axe Records. This album is 16 tracks deep filled with new cuts. Swollen Members got 3 cuts on here. Two of them are brand new and the other cut "Bottle Rocket" feat. Evidence, Everlast and Divine Styler is from there album "Balance". Sondoobie is back with "Buck Fifty 2 Ya Face". Dilated Peoples bring you the remix to "Work The Angles". And Defari got some shit with "Cookin Up Your Brain". Other artists on here with there own joints are Non Phixion, Buc Fifty, Psycho Realm, Pep Love, Del and others. Don't sleep!
Reviewed by: DJF
Group Home "A Tear For The Ghetto"
Group Home is back with there 2nd album. Its been 4 years since there first release but they bring back the heat on here. There were rumors bout Group Home no longer down with Gang Starr, but Guru excutived produced the album and Primo produced "The Legacy" that featured Guru. So that beef rumor is dead. This album is 20 tracks deep, and its fill with some hardcore street shit. The rest of the production is handled by Lil Dap, 8 Off, and Alchemist. The underground hit singles "Make It In Life" and "Stupid Mothafuckas" is up on here. And some of last year joints are on here too, like "Dial-A-Thug" and "12 O'Clock. This album is tight and should not be left on the shelf. Pick it up!
Reviewed by: DJF
Balance Compilation
Balance is a compilation brought to by ReadyRock Records. Its 9 tracks deep and features MC's from Philly. The underground joint "The Meanin" by Kamachi featuring AG (DITC) is on here. This compilation also features "Unusual Styles" by Maylay Sparks & Kamachi and "Nile Nutrition" by Kamachi & Last Emperor. Other artists on here include P.H.A., Ryan Banks, and Jay-Ski. And production is handled by Cas and Omne. This label has a lot of talent and should be making moves for Y2K. Keep your ears and eyes open for Ready Rock Records and Philly Hip Hop in general.
Reviewed by: DJF
Method Man & Redman "Blackout!"
Def Squad and Wu-Tang combine there strongest powers and come out with Method Man and Redman's "Blackout!". This album might be one of the illest joints of the year. With 14 new cuts, a few skits, and 3 already released joints...there's really nothing to complain about. Production is handled by Erick Sermon, RZA, Rockwilder, Mathematic, Gov-Matic, DJ Scratch, and Redman. Guests include Jamal aka Mally G, LL Cool J, Ja Rule, Ghostface, and Street. Standout cuts are "Blackout", "Run 4 Cover", and "Dat's That Shit". There isn't any weak shit on this joint. If your a fan of the Squad and Wu then pick it up!
Reviewed by: DJF
Suaktrates "The Underground Tapes"
Toronto MC Saukrates releases his first US released album "The Underground Tapes". Saukrates brings some tight shit on this joint. He also produces 11 of the 13 tracks. The album includes "Keep It Movin" feat. Xzibit, "Play Dis" (99 Remix) feat. Common and "Check For Me Rollin" feat. Masta Ace and O.C. Other guests include Pharohe Monch, Choclair, and Heltah Skeltah. Every track is nice...its definitly worth the money. Be on the look out for Vol. 2 of "The Underground Tapes". For more info check out www.serious-ent.com
Reviewed by: DJF
Lost Boyz "LB 4 Life"
The Lost Boyz return after the lost of there man Freaky Tah. I believe they were just workin on the album at the time so that would be the reason why Tah is only on 4 or 5 joints. Tah played a big role in there music and it does sound different with out him. So to fill that up, they got some of there crew to pop in on some of the joints. Mr. Cheeks got some dope shit no doubt, but this is a Lost Boyz joint not his solo shit...which will be coming soon. Some dope shit include "Ghetto Jiggy" and "Take A Hike (One)". Majority of the album is solid, some radio shit but its aight. If your a fan of LB then this will be your shit, to the cats who really didn't check for them...you might like them. Its tight but got some jiggyness to it!
Reviewed by: DJF
The Funky Precedent
The Funky Precedent is a compilation to support music education at Fremont High School and Manchester Elementary School in Los Angeles and Mission High School in San Francisco. This comp is jamed pack with westcoast underground MC's. You got new cuts by Dilated Peoples "Triple Optics (Live Funky Precedent Mix), Abstract Rude & Tribe Unique's "Musically Inclined", Ugly Duckling's "Journey To Anywhere", and "Aceyalone's "Project Bliznaiznowed". Then you got some new shit by Cut Chemist and Miles, and a new joint by Rhettmatic. But my two favorite cuts would have to be Divine Styler's "Make It Plain" (Remix) and Styles Of Beyond's "Ambiguous Figures". This album is 16 cuts deep and is for a good cuase so there is no reason to sleep on this joint. Check out www.nomayo.org for more info and sounds.
Reviewed by: DJF
Terror Squad "The Album
The Bronx finally comeback with some new shit, and Terror Squad definitly gets the job done. TS is a crew consisting of Fat Joe, Big Pun, Cuban Link, Triple Seis, Prospect, and Armageaddon. Production is tight on just bout every joint. You got Alchemist producing two cuts "99 Live" and "Bring It On", JuJu on the hit single "Whatcha Gon Do?". Most of the joints got a different producer, there really isn't one cat the does the majority of the album. There really isn't too many guests either, all you got is Buju Baton, Tony Sunshine, and The Bleach Brothers. The stand out cut would have to be "As The World Turns" starring Cuban Link, Prospect, and Triple Seis...the joint is hella tight! Don't sleep on this joint!
Reviewed by: DJF
Duck Down Presents
My favorite Brooklyn crew Boot Camp Click returns with another bangin joint. This time its a compilation featuring the all stars of the crew and the rookies too. Black Moon (Buckshot) represents with "Jump", "Eye Of The Scorpio", "Worldwind" (Remix), and "You Can't Fuck With Us". Cocoa Brovas got there joint "Holocaust" on it and Heltah Skeltah bring the "Ultimate Rush" with Saukrates. OGC's Starang and Henny rip it with Doc Holiday on "Real Nigga Shit" and the next group to blow The Representativz represent with "Mediation". The rest of the crew BTJ's, Illa Noyz, and MFC all bless the compilation too. There really isn't any wackness to this album, if your a fan of the BCC then you'll love this like all there other shit. Go cop this joint and show support for the BCC!
Reviewed by: DJF
Tash "Rap Life"
Dope MC, Tash from Tha Liks is back on his own doin his solo album. The promo I have is only 10 cuts but hopefully the final version will have more cuts. Production is handled by E-Swift, Rocwilder, and others. You got some ill joints like "Rap Life" feat. Raekwon, "Smokefeat" feat. Outkast, B-Real, and Phil Da Agony, and "Tru Homies" feat. Xzibit and Phil Da Agony. Then you got some player type joints like "Pimpin AInt Easy" and "Night Fall". The album is on point, a lil unexpected material from Tash but he gots to do what he gotta do. Its a dope album, don't sleep when it comes out, the only problem with this joint is no J-Ro but its all good. Check it out!
Reviewed by: DJF
Ol' Dirty Bastard "Nigga Please"
Out of nowhere O.D.B. came with his all new album "Nigga Please". We all knew he was working on an album but didn't know it was just gonna drop like it did. There are only 13 (1 bonus cut) tracks on it, all of them are songs, no interludes. No Wu Tang, no Mariah Carey, and no Madonna on the album as what has been reported. Production is handled by Rza (2 cuts), The Neptunes, Irv Gotti, Budda Monk, Tru Master, and Flavahood. Guest spots from Chirs Rock, Kelis, 12 O'Clock, and Lil Mo. Ol Dirty does a little singing on this album, two cuts actaully. The first single "Got Your Money" is aight, but the stand out cut would have to be "Rollin Wit You". Check it out!
Reviewed: DJF
Hip Hop Sample Beats Vol. 1
Hip Hop Sample Beats Vol. 1 is by Strong Island Hip Hop producer Larry Carpenter. He has 28 original Hip Hop tracks waiting for you to remix. He covers every single style there is to be made. Larry's best beats are definitly the hardcore style beats. Stand out cuts are "Nasty Mix", "The Dopest", and "The Lick". Every cut is dope and should be heard, you can order the cd for $15 at carpente@fnd.net Don't sleep!
Reviewed by: DJF
Insomniac Radio Compilation
This is a compilation that you can get free when you buy the newest issue of Insomniac Magazine, no extra charge. It contain's a Slick Rick interview and 15 tracks from some real ill underground MC's. Dope cuts include "Move Step" by Emanon, "Thematics" by Grassroots, and "Its A Crime" by Dyme. Other artists on the album are DJ Inc, Shadowyze, Thawfor, BQE, and Rezawrecktaz plus many more. Don't sleep on Insomniac, go peep out Izreal's site www.insomniacmagazine.com for all the info!
Reviewed by: DJF
O.G.C. "The M-Pire Shrikez Back"
Boot Camp soldiers O.G.C. are back with there dope new album "The M-Pire Shrikez Back". With 17 tight tracks on here, you should not sleep. Production is hella tight, thanks to Black Market, Baby Paul, Havoc and many more. This is by far one of the best Boot Camp releases to date. Starang is still the ill MC of the group, and Top Dog and Louieville definitly improved there mic skill. Boot Camp represents on "Girlz Ninety Now" and "Boot Camp MFC Eastern Conference". And the dopest cut on here would have to be "Suspect Nigga" feat. Buckshot and Havoc of Mobb Deep. Go copp this joint!
Reviewed by: DJF
The Beatnuts "A Musical Massacre"
Juju and Les are back with there 4th album, now on Loud Records. This self produced album is definitly ruff, rugged, and raw. Some heads might hate on this joint cause The Nuts are trying to get to the next level but the joint is definitly hardcore with no jiggyness. Mad guests are here including Triple Seis, Willie Stubs, Swinger, Cuban Link, Common, Dead Prez, Cheryl Riley, Tony Touch, Greg Nice, Nodoodus, Biz Markie, Carl Thomas, and Majic Juan of Proyecto Uno. With 19 joints on here, there is something for everyone. But its all on the hardcore tip. Check out "I Love It" and "You're A Clown", those are the joints. Don't sleep!
Reviewed by: DJF
Styles Of Beyond "2000 Fold"
Styles of Beyond’s 2000 Fold was originally released in 1998 on Bilawn Records, but Takbir Bashir’s and Ryu Maginn’s opus is timeless enough that their new bosses at Ideal Records, the Dust Brothers, decided to re-release it nationally. This is one of the dopest albums to be released in the last three years, in this author’s opinion. It demonstrates a deft combination of forward-thinking, rapid-fire lyrics and galactic, up-tempo beats that take the listener on sonic journey through SOB’s esoteric realms. Vin Skully handles the majority of SOB’s production, and DJ Cheapshot works the tables. Guests include Divine Styler (two production credits and one lyrical foray), the unknown but madly talented Emcee 007, Tak’s brother Bilal Bashir (title track production), Space Boy Boogie X, Revolution, Exile of Emanon, and DJ Rhettmatic of the Beat Junkies. This LP is slightly different from the original in that it is missing DJ Revolution’s cut "Many Styles" and an interlude and has a new intro. SOB proves its versatility midway through the album. In succession, Styles hits listeners with the heart-pounding, espionage-themed Spies Like Us, the laid-back groove of Winnetka Exit, then the techno-tinged Muuvon, and the ubiquitous club jam Easy Back It Up. It’s that flexibility and creativity that solidifies Tak and Ryu’s claim that "We ain’t the average group cause our style’s beyond."
Reviewed By: Z
The High & Mighty "Home Field Advantage"
This Philly now NYC duo has been making noise for bout 2 or 3 years on the underground scene. And now there finally releasing their long awaited album "Home Field Advantage" on Eastern Conference/Rawkus Records. The album is packed with 19 joints with Mighty Mi handling 15 tracks, while Reef and Alchemist get busy on two joints each. Guests MC's is packed out the door on this album, from major label artists such as Eminem, Defari, Kool Keith to underground finest Pharoah Monch, Evidence, Cage, What? What? and more. Some stand out cuts are "Top Prospects", "B-Boy Document 99", and "Open Mic Night" (Remix). Don't sleep on this underground hit!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
Made Men "Classic Limited Edition"
The infamous crew known as The Almighty RSO out of Boston now returns with a whole new name and a whole new style. Restless Records Made Men are now on a something for everyone type style, and they score with it. Hangmen 3 returns for production and got some hot joints on it. Made Men hit you soft with "Is It You?" feat. Master P and then they hit you hard with "Tommy's Theme". Thats is just how the whole chemisty is on this album. My favorite cut would have to be "Must Be Love" feat. Tangg of Wise Guys. With 25 cuts on this joint, you'll find something on it that you'll dig so check it out.
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
Noreaga "Melvin Flynt - Da Hustler"
Hip Hop's newest star Nore returns with his a year and a month later album "Melvin Flynt - Da Hustler". Nore still keeps it on the gangsta tip and does a dope job with it. He definatly shows love for his crew on here too, just bout every song has a member on it. This time though, the spotlight isn't taking away by all the major label players in Hip Hop. So I give Nore respect for that, the only known cats he got on there is Missy, Juvenile, and Lil Wayne. Production is on poing but does get boring after awhile. And the only thing missin from this album is Capone's return. Stand out cut is definatly "Blood Money, Pt. 3". Check it out!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
Arsonists "As The World Burns"
For the heads out there lookin' for a dope hiphop album i suggest you pick up this album. Between radio and underground their definetly underground even though they state in the album that their neither but hiphop. Anyway, the group consists of five members who create a notch for one of the best hiphop LPs of the year. But probably wouldn't be in my top five. Joints to look for would be Venom,In your town,& Shit ain't sweet. While they throw a track in their entitled "Lunchroom Take-Out" which is a freestlye battle taking place in a school cafeteria which is pretty amusing. In any case rating 1-10 I give this album a 7 1/2 or 8. It's not a 10 but definetly deserves notice because it is an important album with all the shit which is being heard so much right now. So this is a good buy for all hiphoppers world wide! That's my word! Peace-1
Reviewed by: Ill-Starred
The Psycho Realm "A War Story"
Aiight,for all you sickside soldiers out there you are gonna love this piece! This is Psycho Realm's sophmore release and a dope follow up to their first self-entitled debute. First,time i listened to "A War Story" i wasn't feelin' it quite as much as their first album. Second time through however i was lovin it. It has a completely different sound from there freshman album. It has more live instruments in it reminding me of The Roots. The whole album is really quick paced and a more latin flavor to it.
For those of you who love B-Real he appears once on this album istead of almost every track like the last album. And Jacken and Duke showcase "Street Platoon's" head emcee Crow on two cuts. Street Platoon has been brought under the wing of Psycho Realm and from what i hear is signed to Psycho Realm's indy label "Sick Symphonies." TRT does a lot of the joints on the wheels. While Sick Jacken holds down production. Unfortunetly, "A War Story" is only available on their website www.PsychoRealm.com . You can get it only on cd and also available is Sick Jacken's autograph for a couple more dollas but will go to his brother Duke's hospital bills. Pick this gem up!!!!!!!! You'll love it! Peace-1!
Reviewed by~ Ill-Starred
Mobb Deep "Murda Muzik"
The all new "Murda Muzik" is 10 times better then the promo. They added 6 new songs, mostly new cuts with guests. Havoc handles most of the production but there are some other producers up on here like Alchemist, Mo-Suave, and Epitome Shamello Buddah. And the guest list is hella long. You got Big Noyd, Chinky, Cormega, Lil' Cease, 8-Ball, Raekwon, Infamous Mobb, Kool G Rap, Nas, and Lil' Kim. With songs like "Quiet Storm", "The Realest" feat. Kool G Rap, and "Its Mine" feat. Nas you can't go wrong with coppin this joint!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Anticon Presents: "Music For The Advancement Of Hip Hop"
This project is brought to you by Sole and crew. You might of heard bout Sole with his El-P (of Company Flow) diss record. Anticon is the whole crew including Sole, Dose, Buck 65, Slug, Alias, EyeDea, Mr. Skurge, 6.2, and more. The music is definitly on a new sound and it might take awhile to get use to it..but in Hip Hop different is good. Its not on the same pop shit like a lot of other artists are constantly doing. On "Rainmen" Deep Puddle Dynamics defintly represent for Anticon and on "Nothing But Sunshine", Slug talks bout his trife past. Each song has its own message, no filler type joints. Don't sleep on this soon to be underground favorite.
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Violator The Album
Here is the compilation from the label/managment group called Violator. Chris Lighty has been in the game for a long time and he saved a lot of careers so this is now his time to get his shine on. There are 18 tracks that are full complete songs so you definitly get your money's worth. Some of the artists include Q-Tip, Flipmode, LL, Cru, Mobb Deep, Nore, Big Noyd, Beatnuts and many more. There new artist Mysonne who is bout to be going up north for awhile got 4 tracks, he is or was definitly there next big new artist to blow up for them. The biggest surprise on this album is LL's "Say What" this joint is hella tight! Give this album a listen yall!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Rahzel "MTM 2000"
The beat box king finally drops his long awaited album "MTM 2000"! Rahzel touches everything on this album and proves himself that he is a tru artist. On some tracks he just provides the music via mouth for Slick Rick, Q-Tip, Me' Shell Ndegeocello, and Erykah Badu. Rahzel also comes at you with some Wu shit too, hella dope. His rhyming cuts are tight too, just check out "All I Know" (Produced by Pete Rock) and "Suga Sista" feat. Black Thought of The Roots. This album is something new and should be heard for the new generation of Hip Hop and brings memories for the heads that been involved with Hip Hop since the beginning. This album has it all! Very dope album, go cop it!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Kool Keith "Black Elvis/Lost In Space"
The illest Ultramagnetic MC is back with his 2nd album for 1999! Yeah thats right Kool Keith is back, major label style via Ruffhouse Records. This time the beats are done by Kool Keith and Kool Keith only. The album is cut in half with 2 EP's. The first half is "Lost In Space" and the second half is "Black Elvis". "Lost In Space" is back to his out of space type style while "Black Elvis" is back to his sex style ish. Both are very dope! With 17 tracks on here, Kool Keith doesn't miss out on anything. He has some guest appearances by Sadat X, Black Silver, Kid Capri and Noggin Nodders. Cats might hate on him cause of what he says bout other artists and industry heads but its the truth. With the right promotion this album can go GOLD but it might be slept on...so wake up and pick this album up yall!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Humanreck "Deadly And Dangerous"
Newark, New Jeru MC Humanreck has been seen in promotion ads for bout 2 years and nothin was heard. Well, this past Tuesday...his album finally came out. He is definitly on the street shit that stays on point thru out the album. Majority of the production is by the Def Squad production team, Erick Sermon, Redman, Rockwilder, Rod Kirtpatrick, and Tyrone Fyffe. This isn't a bad thing...the production is hella tight! There are also some guests MC's on here too...Keith Murray, Kel Vicious (L.O.D.), XBreed, V.O.C., Battalion, and Propane. Some stand out cuts are "Bad News", "Straight Like That", and "High Divas". Definitly check out this album!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Thirston Howl III "Skillionaire"
This is the MC that everyone in Hip Hop is talkin bout! Heads are defintily lovin him or hatin him...but from what I heard he is gonna blow up! This album is more like a compilation of songs that were freestyles, mixtape cuts, and some new cuts. A lot of the songs are actual instumentals from known records...nothin wrong with that cuz this shit is dope! He got his whole Lo Life crew up on here and plus he got his hit record "Brooklyn Hard Rock". The album is 27 tracks deep and should be picked up before its too late! Don't sleep!!!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Quannum MC's "Spectrum"
Quannum MC's are Blackalicious, Latyrx, and DJ Shadow...now you should know who is Quannum since they created this new crew name last year. This album is 15 joints deep and the production is bangin. The reason why, because production is handled by Chief Xcel, DJ Shadow, Lyrics Born, El-P, Soul-Saints, and Dan The Automator. Lyricaly, the album is even better...with MC's from the crew plus Divine Styler, El-P, Jurassic 5, and Souls Of Mischief makin appearances. Stand out cuts are "Divine Intervention", "Concentration", and "Bombonyall". Cop this joint...thats my word!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Swollen Members "Balance"
Aiight,peeps be on the look out for a group by the name of "Swollen Members." This is some straight wholesome hiphop with a somewhat underground type feel. The emcees of the group include prevail and Madchild. With production done by..get ready for this: The Alchemist (of Soul Assassins),Evidence (of Dilated Peoples), Kemo (of Delinquent Habits), Zodak (of Swollen Members i think), Del (of Hiero), and last but not least Joey Chavez and Paul Nice both uprising underground heads! This album has twenty cuts with no interludes. Unfortunetly when S&M releases this album in the US they are going to take away some cuts i've been told. Oh shit,i forgot to mention guest vocal appearences. Peep this out: Everlast, Evidence, SON DOOBIE, Thirdrail Vic, Saafir, Big Nous, Tony De Skitzo, Iris Science (also from Dilated), Divine Styler, Acey Alone, and Del. Additional help issued to Kutmasta Kurt, Mixmaster Mike, Kutfater, the edge crusher, and Dj Science. Stand out cuts are Bottle Rocket, Committed, Brace Yourself, Front Street, and Horrified Nights! Do not fuckin sleep on this album or i'll throw a bucket of ice on you! haha that's my word! Word, as life this album is a gem. Look ta pick it up at www.cdnow.com! Peace ya'll!
Reviewed by: Ill-Starred
Scaramanga "Seven Eyes Seven Horns"
Straight from the East side of things comes Scaramanga! If i had to give best new solo artist it would probably go to Scaramanga. His rhymes are definetly on point. His style is a combination of Raekwon and Nas in my opinion. The production could be a little bit better but his rhymes definetly make up for it! Stand out joints are Special Efx feat. Godfather Don, Death Letter Remix feat. Scholarwise, and Mind I C Mine. He is straight underground HipHop and i emphasize the words HipHop! Pick this piece up at SandBoxautomatic! Word up..Peace!
Reviewed By: Ill-Starred
Public Enemy "There's A Poison Goin On"
P.E.'s been making dope records for mad long and they don't stop! Everything they release is good quality Hip Hop that doesn't get boring. With Chuck D's dope voice and Flava's hype is the perfect combination. As most of yall know, P.E. released this album online a few months ago and they moved over 200,000 units, thats dope! Now there hittin the stores so this gives them the chance to go Gold and more. The first single "Do You Wanna Go Our Way???" is the standout cut. Other dope cuts are "Crayola", "Last Mass Of The Caballeros" and "Swindlers Lust". With 14 dope cuts, there should be no reason why you don't have this! And Flav drops some dope rhymes too!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
Gang Starr "Full Clip: A Decade Of Gang Starr"
Guru and Primo bring you 33 dope cuts on this Greatest Hits/B-Sides/New cuts album. The new cuts "Full Clip", "Discipline", and "All 4 tha Cash" makes you fiend for a new album by Gang Starr. Hopefully they'll hit us soon will a new LP since there on top of there game. If you don't have there past releases then this is the album for you...unfortunatly I have them, but its all good. Its dope to have the B-Sides and the other cuts as an album. The whole Gang Starr Foundation represents on this album as well. Don't sleep yall!
Reviewed By: D.J.F.
The Grouch "Fuck The Dumb"
One of the illest underground MC's from the west drops his 4th album "Fuck The Dumb". Who is this MC? His name is The Grouch and he represents the Living Legends. He's been around for a minute if your down with underground Hip Hop but if you haven't heard bout him yet, well here is your introduction. Grouch produces all his shit too, and all of the beats are hella dope. Some stand out cuts are: "Bangers", "Your'e Not The 1", and "Once Upon A Rhyme". Guest appearances by Eligh, Bizzaro, and PSC of Mystik Journeymen. Don't sleep on this Oakland banger!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
Wil Tell Compilation
Will Tell seems to be B.K's best kept secret. Not to my knowledge have I heard this cat on any of the artists on this comp's other recording projects. Although Tell's fresh to my ears he's got that timeless grimy shit that in most cases only NY producers supply. I wouldn't care if this was Kenny G's compilation though! Just peep the line up. Thirston Howl III, Word A Mouth, Pumkinhead and some new comers. Although it doesn't start off as a slow start, things get more interesting on track 4 "language barriers" where Thirston Howl and Word A Mouth flip their rhymes in a new style called flylingual. This banger ain't it! Word A Mouth's "stupid" will keep outsiders to that NY grimyness wide awake. Will Tell's production on joints like "stupid" are similar to the Arsonists "pyromaniax" with cartoonish sounding samples. Beat diggers might begin to hate since he even loops some popular classical music (you'll know when you hear it). Since this is Will Tell's comp, the dope rhymes aren't the main focus. He does a great job at promoting himself as an ill producer and in the rhyme department, does a great job at promoting these sort of known m.c's. Since ya'll are already aware of the grimyness that goes on, what's grimyness without that demo, basement shit? Just not grimy DUH. Consider yourself informed now! You'll get sleepy during some of the comp since the beat style really doesn't switch up but bangers always creep up when your eyelids are about to close. To judge it by face value, even the cover matches my description of the music. It looks like a disc you'd see next to Makavelli 10. The high points on Will Tell (not exactly like there's low points) are "language barriers", "stupid", "Russian roulette", "pana de que", and "insane asylum". Both of the members of Word A Mouth (B.K. Academy) really show & prove and i'm truly impressed by their story telling skills wether on "insane asylum" or on the struggling tip on the comp's opening joint "times have changed". Finally Zoo York is back!!! COP DAT FOO!
Reviewed by: SELF
Mobb Deep "Murda Muzik"
As I listen to this new Mobb Deep joint, all I can think of is...we'll there be more and better tracks on the final release, ha! Majority of the beats are dope, and they do come with some tight rhymes. Its on some street shit but Mobb holds it down, not like some of these fake ass thugs with mics. They got a few guest appearances on this album, some of them are Cormega, Eightball, and Kool G Rap. I believe there's gonna be some new tracks added, the album won't be out till August now. It definitly feels like its missing something, so hopefully that shit will be met with the final release. Some dope cuts are: "Illustrious", "QuietStorm", and "The Realest" (feat. Kool G Rap). Check it out when it drops yall!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
EPMD "Out Of Business"
Yeah thats right Brentwood, Long Island's illest is back in effect with a new banger. Everyone and Side's Moma is saying that there done but thats all dead. EPMD is back and they ain't going nowhere, thats my word! They may be done with Business titles but they will keep making records for a long time yall!
The album is 15 tracks deep. Every cut is produced by Erick Sermon and he didn't miss out on any of them. From the bangin dedicated Intro for DJ Scratch to the last track "Jane 6" they stay on point. Some standout cuts would have to be "Rap Is Outta Control" (feat. Busta Rhymes), both versions of "The Symphony", and "You Got Shot". Guest appearances include: DMX, MOP, Busta Rhymes, 8Off, 215, Method Man, Redman, and Lady Luck. The only problem I have with the album is no Keith Murray, he recorded vocals for the album but it didn't make it. Its all good though!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
Mystik Journeymen "The Black Sands Ov Eternia"
These are the cats that been puttin in work in the underground scene for years. They definitly got their business handled with their crew Living Legends. Production is by them and they don't miss. The album has 23 tracks with 12 full cuts. Some of my personnal favorites would have to be "Reflections", "Piano Lesson", "Mecury Rising" and "Rage". This Oakland, Cali duo (PSC and BFAP) might have one of the best underground albums for '99! Guest artists include: Aceyalone, Grouch, Emperor Of The Sun, and Living Legends. Don't sleep yall!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
The Whoridas "High Times"
King Saan and Mr. Taylor bring back the West Oakland/Bay Area funk with their 2nd album "High Times". They definitly represent there smoking joints on this album with cuts like "Still Smokin'", "Get Lifted", and "Jane". But they also come with some dope crew songs as well with "Harem" (feat. Hobo Junction) and "Family Deep" (feat. Hobo Junction President Saafir and others). Some suprises pop up to with "Blockbustaz" (feat. Sondoobie) and "Godfathers" (feat. Xzibit), are all hella dope! With 15 dope joints this album should not be disappointing. Production is handled by Lev Berlak, Wilson Hawkins, DJ Rectangle, Bob Durham, and J-Cutt. Pick it up!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
GZA "Beneath The Surface"
The lyrical sword swinger of Wu-Tang is back, yall know him as the GZA/Genius! With 12 tight full cuts there is no reason not to pick it up. GZA got mad guest appearances from the whole WU Family and production by the Wu-Elements crew. GZA definitly holds his own up against some of the illest MC's from the WU fam. And of course his solo cuts like "Breaker, Breaker" and "Publicity" are some of the best joints in Hip Hop today. The stand out cut to me would have to be "Crash Your Crew" (feat. ODB). Dope shit yall! Look for another GZA album in December!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
Loot Pack "Soundpieces: Da Antidote!"
The underdawgs of the Likwit Crew Lootpack finally has their first full LP out on PBW Stone's Throw Records. The album is 24 tracks deep produced by Madlib. This album is definitly for the underground heads, these cats do not touch the wack played out jiggy shit. This is a B-Boy record fo sho! Joints like "Questions", "Crate Diggin", and "Hityawitdat" are some straight dope Hip Hop bangers! Some collaborations on the album are "Long Awaited" (feat. Dilated Peoples), "Likwit Fusion" (feat. Tha Liks and Defari), and the crew joint "Episodes" (feat. Kazi, God's Gift, Delaime, Oh No, and Medaphoar) are just hella tight! Don't sleep on them yall!
Reviewed by: D.J.F.
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