Reviews (4)

Great Underground Album...Point Blank
(insert the title here.)
Underground, LA MC- Busdriver really has put together a great album.

His lyrics come at you with a furry - speeding up and slowing down like a battle rapper or spoken word artist.

The beats are really good. A lot of jazz samples - flutes, saxes, oboes (yes, oboes), etc. It sounds like a masterpiece of instruments and beats.
Also, DJ- D-Styles does a great job of scratching it up on this one.

Busdriver is a very entertaining lyricist, but don't expect an education from his lyrics. He is entertaining, not educational. (Not an insult, just the truth.)

Also, his collaboration with 2Mex on the track "Truth of Spontaneous Human Combustion" was spectacular. I wish that he was one more than 1 verse on the album.
(But if you like 2Mex and Busdriver, than check out 2Mex's album - SWEAT LODGE INFINITE. Busdriver is all over it.)

Finally, the cool artwork is done by the famous graffiti artist - Mear One, who has also done artwork for DJ Hive, Freestyle Fellowship, Abstract Rude, Limp Bizkit (:( ), etc.

Classic!
One of the greatest albums ever by in my opinion the greatest rapper of all time. If you like "Imaginary Places" check out a LIVE version on Busdriver & 2mex's new live album -- Yes, Busdriver can rap that fast live... At the end of the song, 2mex is like "I wish I could rap as fast as Busdriver..."

The wheels on this bus go round and round
After first hearing "Imaginary Places" in the Tony Hawk Underground video game, I was blown out of my fragile little mind. I spent so much time trying to transcribe the lyrics right, but it was like ten minutes of words packed into a ninety-second section. My frustration equaled my amazement and I bought the CD.

Temporary Places is by far one of the best hip-hop albums to be released in the last three years, simply because it brings forth every element of hip-hop together so beautifully. First, take the nonconformist one-of-a-kind beats with unexpected but truly dazzling sample and instumental cameos (Check out "Somethingness" and "The Truth of Spontaneous Human Combustion"). Second, the uncompromising and impressive scratching of D-Styles on beats like "Imaginary Places", "Along Came A Rider" and "Mindcrossings" cannot be missed. And third and best of all is the great Busdriver himself with his sprinting flows and unmatched part-singing, part-rapping that takes every track by storm. His ability to rhyme words like "oligarchy" with "Paul McCartney" and freestyle at a fast food drive-thru window in "Stylin' Under Pressure"("I'd like a medium Sprite as I'm exceeding new heights...") separates him from the one-trick emcees radio constantly wields at us. I put him on the same echelon with the Gift of Gab from Blackalicious, Chali 2na from Jurassic 5, and Nas as far as intelligent, unique, mic-ripping emcees go.

I'm not saying this album is perfect as a whole (The second half is not as strong in my opinion as the first), but for wacky, tongue-twistingly fast lyrics with beats to back it up, this gem is one of only a few albums widening the wingspan of good hip-hop. Everything opposite to this you can throw under the bus.

Masterpiece
Busdriver is rapidly becoming one of the greatest mc's of all time. I rank him up there with the members of Freestyle Fellowship. All of Busdriver's albums -- "This Machine Kills Fascists," "Memoirs of the Elephant Man," "Temporary Forever," and "The Weather" -- are classics. This album in particular is probably the best introduction to Busdriver for those that haven't heard him before.

Check the opening track where he keeps pace with a hiphop version of the popular cellphone ring "Badinerie" by Johann Sebastian Bach. He doesn't just rap, he creates melodies. As he said, "I have a trained ear, I'm a jazz man."

Busdriver was influenced by jazz/scat singer Jon Hendricks (of Hendricks, Lambert and Ross -- whose song "Everybody's Boppin'" he rapped over in "Everybody's Stylin'") and swing guitarist Django Reinhardt -- basically, his ear appreciates fast, difficult music with lightning-quick changes in tempo and tone.

This album is sick. If you have any appreciation for music whatsoever you will love this stuff. And if you like fast, jazz-inspired rap delivery of the Project Blowed/Freestyle Fellowship variety, you will really really love this. What other mc could freestyle while ordering at a drive through? "Give me a personburger cause eating a hamburger's worse than murder..."

This album is produced mainly by Paris Zax with some tracks by Daddy Kev and OD (Omid). It's got several interludes, skits, & an a cappella, with cameos by Radioinactive, Rhetoric, 2mex, and Xololanxinxo. Aceyalone pairs up with Busdriver for the first time on the OD produced "Jazz Fingers" (the instrumental of which can be found on OD's "Afterwords II").

I listened to this album and nothing else for a month straight after I got it. 'Nuff said. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Another classic Hip/Hop album on the rise!!!!!
If you haven't heard this album yet, you need to go out and get it. The lyrics are brand nubians tightest and most concious lyrics yet. The album ranks up there with "Tribe Called Quest" and "Lauryn Hill". If you have these albums then you have to get this one. I never had a brand nubian album, but now after listening to it I'm glad that I have it. Check this album out! Best songs are shining star, don't let it go to your head,love vs. hate, foundation, let's dance,and back up of the wall.

HIp/Hop with a Message!!!
This album is off-da-hook. It has a formula that gets your mind thinking as well as your body shaking. This is the first Brand nubian album i have bought and it was worth it. The beats are phat and the lyrics are tight. If you have the new tribe called quest and Lauryn hill albums, this one is for you!

The last Brand Nubian album?
Brand Nubian - Foundation (Arista, 1998)

Having gone from Elektra to Arista, Lord Jamar, DJ Alamo, Sadat X and (welcome back) Grand Puba Maxwell, released their comeback album in 1998. DJ Premier's "The Return", Buckwild's "Straight Outta Now Rule" and "Brand Nubian (1998 version)" all have great beats and hot rhymes. In terms of dopeness, Puba is first, Datty-X is second, and Jamar third. They do slip up when they try to go mainstream on us: "Don't Let It Go to Your Head" is hot but "Too Late" is not. Also, Alamo is largely absent on this album while other producers handle the album. Maybe that's why he's not in the group anymore? -EJR

Brand Nubian Cats...Here to Kick One for You
The east coast emcee quartet Brand Nubian has quietly been manufacturing soulful, funky, and unique records for years. Their 1998 "Foundation" is the last album they released together although Sadat X and Grand Puba appear on the masterpeiece "Handsome Boy Modeling School," and the Pudgee the Phat Bastard single "Think Big" and Datty released "The State of New York vs Derek Murphy." "Foundation" is a record with strong grooves, quality production, traditional but conscious lyrics, and four very talented emcees. It's really more like a 3.5 star record, as the record grips the listener with a smooth intro, a great opening track, a bevy of guest artists including Common Sense, and a solid all-around quality to the album. Pretty much anything BN drops is hot, so this record is highly recommended.

Nubian shows that he is one of the FOUNDATIONS of hip-hop...
Brand Nubian delivers everything AND the kitchen sink in this zestful display of hip-hop. The tracks are fresh as they are packed with dope beats, accompanied by stylish lyricism from the Nube - the best thing about this album is that every cut has some kind of important message in it. Brand Nubian shows that he can still put it down for hip-hop and avoid all of the "jiggy-jiggy," "bling-bling" non-sense. Good hip-hop from the soul for the soul. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Kottonmouth Kings are the one-issue voters of hip-hop, eloquently answering the question of just how many ways a single crew can rap the praises of marijuana. Their second album, High Society, is as redolent of smoke as the stoners' van in the movie Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Over jumping electro-funk-rock tracks, the Kings celebrate the possibility of legalization ("Peace Not Greed"), home gardening ("Good as Gold"), the munchies ("Here We Go Again"), and even hazily mislaying a smoke ("The Joint"). Uh, what were we talking about?--Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (61)

Hip-Hop at its best
Some people may think of the Kottonmouth Kings as just a bunch of stoners who can't rap a verse, or write a rhyme. Well they have proved those haters wrong with thier newest release "High Society". With the back-and-forth rapping styles of the energetic D-Loc, to the laid back, smooth flowing Jonny Ritcher the Kings have one of the most unique styles. With producer and band member Daddy X, the Kings have a well developed, complete album. From the anarchist "Peace Not Greed" to "The Joint", the Kings provide in your face lyrics with good beats, thanks to DJ Bobby B and Lou Dog. How many other rap groups put together a 20 song 75+ minute cd? Not many, the Kings are for real. Are you Down With The Krown?

Very Good, But It Feels As If There Is Something Missing...
Don't get me wrong, ever since Stoners Reeking Havoc came out, I have been kottonmouth kings crazy, and to me, everything they have ever done has been great. I listened to this release on monday, when i picked it up from my local music shop. (hot hits for all my detroit homies) I heard about the whole Saint issue, and still believing that it had to be a rumor, i got an email from Doug from suburban noize saying it was true. I don't know about you guys, but i think Saint represented what the kottonmouth kings were all about, stoned punks who could rap better than many of today's mainstream MCs. Without Saint in the group, i feel as the group has lost something...even though Johnny Richter (lady killer! ) is tight as hell, he just can't replace Saint. So, I would recommend this album to people who liked the Kottonmouth Kings before, but don't mind a little change. But, if Saint was your reason for liking the Kottonmouth Kings, it might be time to find a new group. The whole cd is good though, so give the kottonmouth kings some support, and pick this up...they deserve it.

Psychedelic Punk-Hop
Damn - theres a handfull of albums that I've come across in my life that completely astounded me and confused me well. When I first heard this cd, I couldn't really understand how sick it was. Sound and energy I had never heard before. Its that kind of feeling that wishes you had made it, or could have been a part of it. This album is very well produced, some may say too electronical, but I like progressive studio tricks. The energy is great and doesn't sound bland or soulless, like some overproduced electronic tracks. I do get tired of the same subject matter (weed), but i get passed it, paying more attention to style and delivery and blend. All the tracks don't receive a 10, but at least 12 do. I get excited when there are at least 3 or 4 great tracks on an album, but this one has 12. I could see hip-hop and electronic melodic ambient music merging real well in the mainstream. Hats off to this cd.

Strong effort from the Kings
High Society showcases the Kottonmouth Kings during what i call their psychdelic period(this album and Rollin` Stone). It`s a very good album with plenty of bumping tracks like Day Dreamin` Fazes, Joint, Lottery, and King`s Blend(my favorite song on the album) that shows the Kings` great mix of hip hop, reggae and punk. The only negative about High Society is that the last 5 songs are no where as good as the other tracks.

How would life be if da world smoked weed?
High Society is da shiznit...Richtor is da shiznit ... Read more

Amazon.com

Pairing DJ Krush, known throughout the beat underground for his subdued, trippy soundscapes, with Japanese avant trumpeter Toshinori Kondo may seem an odd pairing. This record, however, is instantly knowable and intuitively easy to grasp. Krush's beats, while certainly up-front, don't come at the price of the composition, nor do they blast Kondo's trumpet out of the tune. DJ Krush is not only able to drive the direction and tempo, but he's also quite adept at creating mood--often mixing up somber, downtempo collages that glide with an underwater grace. His uptempo work is direct, solidly propelled by someone who knows how to handle bass and breaks. Thankfully, the canvasses Krush mixes up are large enough to include Kondo's color work. The trumpeter (who's worked with the likes of Herbie Hancock and John Zorn) takes full advantage of the opportunity. Kondo is a breathy, richly toned player, and his meshings add to the dreamy, psychedelic feel of the recording. He's effective whether he's drifting beside Krush's swirling dub coiled in a haze of effects or punctuating beats with pure blasts of horn fire. A hip-bop classic. --S. Duda ... Read more

Reviews (28)

New Directions in Groove
I've always been a fan of jazz and hip-hop music. My introduction to John Coltrane and Kurtis Blow happened when I was 11 years old. I thought then, as I know now, the two genres blend perfectly. The 1999 release Ki-Oku by DJ Krush and Toshinori Kondu ranks high on my list of jazz fusion albums, right next to Miles Davis' Tutu. It also is a 'must have' for any hip-hop collection as well, because it marks a special place in the evolution of 'rap-fusion', if you will. The overall composition is not a boring attempt to bridge the gap between rap and jazz, like many poorly executed acid jazz albums from the mid to late 1990's. It stands in a unique place from the like of Guru's Jazzamatazz series, or Branford Marsalis' Buckshot Lefonque series (most notably, the self-titled debut of this series). This is a new direction in groove, and they blaze a trail very few could follow, let alone produce a result so enriching. The men play together as you would expect brothers to, and the album moves from track to track without a single flaw. DJ Krush has long proven himself a master of down-tempo grooves, and Kondu's horn rides over the beats like a warm, steady breeze. His playing is like Miles, especially reminiscent of his fusion concepts. Overall, if you want an album that you can play for a wide variety of people in nearly any setting, or a good album to sit back and chill out to, this is a great buy for the cause.

Dark, moody, brooding - perfect for the big city.
This album is a step away from DJ Krush's usual sampling. The tracks are a mix of synthesiser and drum machine beats and the acoustic/electronic trumpet playing talents of Kondo - the style is fresh and original. The overall mood of the album is mellow, subdued, relaxed.

Wow
I was blown away from the first spin of this album. I don't know if I'm just unfamiliar with the downtempo electronic or acid jazz genres, but this album is unlike anything I have ever heard before. It was one of those albums that slightly tweaks your idea of what good music should do. This is one of my favorite albums to light up to. Otherwise I just fall asleep with it in the background. I want more music to sound like this.

Two musical visonaries on one cd.
The idea of combining trip hop and jazz now is rapidly becoming centuries old and i feel people are ready fot the next big revolution which i feel is just around the corner. Despite that fact there are a few records that are so purfect they just fight right into the whole scene without any of the conventional forces having any kind of efffect on it. This is one such record. Monumental acheivement is all i can say to describe this classic....way up there with "Endtroducing.." and "Deltron" instrumentals. When i first herd of this cd....hip hop beats with jazz trumpet......instantly elevator music and cheezy porn scores came to mind and i decided to skip it...Big mistake. This cd is hands down Krush's best work to date (ofcourse he had Kondo to help him out) Toshinori kondo is master trumpet player and his style is along the lines of Miles Davis (only his style....Kondo is a true master but he is no Miles Davis...nobody is actually). DJ Krush maintains a strict hip hop ethic throughout the CD and that, i feel, is what draws the line and pushes them over to the good side. Every track on this cd is excillent and flawless. Musicianship is of the highest caliber and production values are absolutely unparalleled. The music switches in and out of funky almost dancable groovs (toh-sui) to haunting instrumental ballads (mu-chu) to dub jems(sun is shining) do downright dark and chilling sets (ki-gen). Each note the Kondo hits oozes jazz, each beat the Krush generates is litrally drenched in hip hop and together they are a musical match made in heven. Krush and Kondo compliment each other extreamly well and neither of them subdue the others effect on any track. I totally agree with S.Duda..the reviewr for Amazon.com about the fact that this is a hip hop classic. DJ Krush and Toshinori Kondo have immensely intensified the flame originally kindled by legends like "The Roots" (who Krush is a big fan of) and "Guru" and added a completely new instrumential dimention to it.

FANTASTIC
this album is bure bliss. so many people really lose the spirit of jazz when they mix beats with horns....but dj krush is right on the money. buy this! ... Read more

Album Description

4th album on Ninja Tune from one of its oldest actsfeaturing guest vocals from Iriscience (Dilated Peoples),MF Doom, Blade and more. 2002. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

the best herbaliser album i think
this is the best herbaliser album i think...

This Album...got me completely hooked on The 'Herbal One'..
Herbaliser's fourth album, is a tremendous effort that blends the "Stoned" grooves of early Kruder & Dorfmeister, with his own Ninja-tune styled underground Trip-hop.....Phi Life Cypher on "Distinguished Jamaican English, and MF Doom on "It Ain't Nuttin"...as good as any of his Ninja-tune stablemates, yet star of the show is "Wildflower" on the exceptional "Good Girl Gone Bad".....Who explodes on the mic instantly, and Rap's & freestyles with such a unrelenting "Ragga / Hip-hop" sonic assault that (given on this evidence) it's arguably superior to the already tremendous "Ms Dynamite"......"Wildflower's" drops lyrical lines like "There are so many different sides to a person's Com-plex!!.....When you try & Box me in, I get Vexx!!!.....Don't bother put me in no, "Pigeon Hole".....Especially when It seems like I'm on such a Roll", in a confident yet unabashed style of many a pirate radio M.C., but to not give at least a mention of the Trip-Hop/Jazz Vocalist fusion of the title track "Something Wicked This Way Comes" would be foolish, and it opens the album beautifully and illustrates 'The Herabliser's' ear for a incredibly catchy hook, that simply cannot be ignored. The Herbaliser through his excellent Trip-hop psychedelia, and forsight into experimentation continues "Ninja-tune's" unblemished record of astonishing output.

Great!
Herbaliser is possibly the best group in the incredibly deep talent reservoir of the Ninja Tune label and this CD proves it. So far it is their best one, with great raps and jazzy, spy soundtrack-like music. Probably a best way to get to know this band. Get it. Anything from Ninja Tune is worth buying.

Something boring this way comes
I really liked "Very Mercenary", so I was disappointed when I put this disc in, only to find that the technical wizardry so prevalent on VM is lacking here. In fact, it's non-existant. Every single song ends with you suddenly remembering that you're listening to music. It just falls into the background, where I guess it belongs. Don't get me wrong. It isn't bad music. It's just nothing special. Rip it from a friend, but don't waste your hard earned money on it like I did. I miss my money.

Good, but didn't capture me like "blow your headphones"
The album toggles between rap and instrumental music. I'm pretty picky when it comes to rap. I've always liked the rappers under the Ninja tunes label more so than others out there. The rap songs on this album are mediocre, but I'm probably not the best person to judge.

The instrumentals are fun "Shaft" 70'sish style of funk, with # 5 being the hit that everyone will like. The instrumentals all have the NIce scratchin that you have come to enjoy from the Herbaliser. Over all I think its well worth the buy, however I'm going to have to say that "Blow your Headphones" is still the masterpiece. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Unique!
Firstoff, to clear some confusion amongst some Insane Clown Posse fans known as ..., we can look forward to more Insane Clown Posse. Bizzar is thus unique in many ways. Firstly, its design is far removed from those of any Joker's Cards such as The Amazing Jeckel Brothers or The Great Milenko, and so forth. Furthermore, ICP themselves stated in a recent interview that they went into their Dark Carnival studio with the mindset of having never heard another piece of music ever before, as though they were the only band on the planet, and it shows. Moreso than their Joker's Cards, with their now-customary circus sounds and language, Bizzar mixes and manipulates all kinds of noises and special effects, and blends them with ICP lyrics which actually seem somewhat deeper than their usual works. In my humble opinion, Bizzar is actually better than its sister album, Bizaar, with tracks like the jamming Let's Go all The Way, Questions, which is reminiscent of How Many Times?, Mr Happy, which is hauntingly funny, and Radio Stars, in which ICP attempt to "sell-out" their artistic merits in a quest for airtime, a funny parody. Crystal Ball, however, is my favorite, in the tradition of other chilling last-tracks on ICP albums. I urge all my fellow ... to buy this cd, because even though it's not a Joker's Card, it is ICP at their most unique, not to mention hysterical. But, if you've gotta buy only one CD, buy Bizzar. You will not be disappointed.

Boy, it feels so good. Everytime I murder, I get happy!
2000's "Bizzar" is a lyrical trashfest that temporarily drifts away from the scary side of the Dark Carnival. Hilariously vulgar and unrestrained, this album is basically a Saturday morning cartoon packed with car crashes, psychotic killers, and razor-sharp stabs at MTV. The CD also features cameo appearances by Twiztid, Blaze, and Esham.
On the album's opening title track, Juggalos are invited to jam on the dance floor. Out to break every funny bone in the U.S., Violent J raps about working at Kinkos and keeping a corpse in his car. He even uses the bathroom in the song's latter half! "Cherry Pie" is a raunchy slice of nymphomaniac porn served a la mode! "Radio Stars" is an audio barrel of laughs! In this scenario, J and Shaggy make many disastrous attempts to make a music video for MTV, zooming from DMX-style rap to Weezer-like alternative to even boy band pop! "Bizzar's" single, "Let's Go All the Way," provides the hope of a better world. It's a dream parade in which everyone is invited, and no one is rejected or harrassed. "Let a Killa" is an unapologetic hip-hop bashing of today's models and celebrities. In "Juggalo Paradise," a tormented J is touched by the Dark Carnival and given the strength to toss icebergs, snatch jewels with Chinese ninjas, and straighten the Tower of Pisa. Finally, the surprisingly gentle "Crystal Ball" predicts a grim future for a Detroit drug dealer.
Unfortunately, "Bizzar's" other tracks make the CD fall short overall. They basically were not as meticulously thought out as the demented duo's Joker Card classics. "Questions" is nothing more than a series of absurd and gruesome phrases. Both "Mr. Happy" and "My Axe" star J as a medicated, 30-year-old murderer who thinks with the mind of a 6-year-old boy. "If" is a silly song that may as well answer questions out of a book at Barnes & Noble.
If you are a new buyer seeking ICP's material, you may want to consider purchasing the Bizzar-Bizarr double release later. You are better off listening to all six Joker Cards, from 1991's "Carnival of Carnage" to 2002's "The Wraith."

Bizzar
This is a great cd (but what do u excpt from icp?). Bizaar goes great with this but this is a must have!!! It has a great beat that is addictive. if u listen to it once ull want to buy it no doubt its not a waste of money.

Good stuff
I'll run this down song by song as well

1. Intro - It's just a cool intro, nothin special tho

2. Bizzar - Funky ... and kinda weird, but very enjoyable. Not the best song on the album or anything, but a good song to start with

3. Cherry Pie (I Need A Freek) - This is a remake of Too Short (and also remade by Esham). It's got a really cool beat. Nothin too special but not a track I would skip.

4. Questions - A laid back song asking questions, mostly funny things. Esham on the chorus.

5. Mr. Happy - This song is great. The concept, the music, chorus, everything, it's very well done. It kinda reminds me of Dead Body Man in a small way

6. Radio Stars - As you've read, it's a song where they try different styles of music, pretty much doing parodies of each. There's a dirty south section, a Barenaked Ladies type of rock section, and an R&B section of the song. They're actually still fun to listen to even tho they are making fun of this stuff. They then decide to just stick what they do best which is....

7. My Axe - This song. This is like old school ICP, with J talkin about how his Axe is his buddy and everything. Some people love this song and some don't really like it, but I think it's really cool and has a good song structure.

8. If - I'll go ahead and admit this song is pretty [bad]. The beat and most of it isn't even rapping or singing or anything, just kinda talking. But some aspects of it still keep me interested and the chorus for some reason is cool.

9. Let's Go All The Way -THis is a remake of Sly Fox, which originally is a [bad] dance song, but ICP's version is great. They take the song, make it more like a rock song, and change the lyrics to fit more of the whole "Dark Carnival" meaning, and the song is about going to Shangri-La. You'll catch yourself singing this later and you can't deny how good this is.

10. Let a Killa - Hillarious song, funny commentary by J as well as the rapping by J and Shaggy. Shaggy's verse is one of his best. I like the beat and everything about this, I dunno why the other reviewer didn't care for this much

11. Juggalo Paradise - This is pretty cool as well. Unique sounds and stuff in the verse and then a rock chorus with shout outs and stuff.

12. Crystal Ball - How could you not like this song? It features Jamie and Monoxide of Twiztid...not Esham and Myzery as another reviewer said. It's very laid back and has a lot of meaning, then it breaks down into a very peaceful moment with a woman singing and everything. Anybody could like this song

And then there's some bonus stuff you gotta fast forward too. One bonus thing is a short song that is an accoustic guitar with Violent J singin a song about buying bizzar, ... Basically this CD isn't set up like a Joker's card at all, but it's still very enjoyable and is great to see ICP experimenting

Bizzar
Here it is, the 2nd of 2 albums from ICP released on Halloween of 2000. "Bizzar", i feel, is better than it's sister album "Bizaar". Both are very different from any earlier ICP releases, in these two, Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope get more of a comical style than any, considering almost every song is full of hilarious moments and comic outakes that make this album not only bizzar, but very funny as well. I gave it a 5-star trak-by-trak review:

1. Intro - 2nd part of the Bizaar/Bizzar intros. Talks more about a strange cloud forming over the U.S and people with painted faces running in happiness, very 'Bizzar'.

2. Bizzar (5/5) - This song is killer. Some awesome production work and some awesome and hilarious raps. Has a killer chorus and a fresh new sound.

3. Cherry Pie (I Need A Freek) (5/5) - Yet another hilarious song. Fresh beats and rhymes from J & Shaggs.

4. Questions (5/5) - Not as upbeat of production as previous 2, but still a hilarious and good song, i love the line from Shaggy, "Why/everytime i swallow a flathead nail/my neck feels stale..", that's fresh as hell!

5. Mr. Happy (5/5) - Awesome song, nice and hilarious. "ooh/it feels so good when i m****r i get happy!".

6. Radio Stars (5/5) - Hilarious! Shaggy & J try to sell out and become radio stars, making pitiful attempts at mainstream airplay.

7. My Axe (4/5) - Alright, the first song i didn't think was as fresh as the others.

8. If (5/5) - This is the most hilarious song i ever heard from ICP. Great references to being things, espically the ones about John Denver and Barry White.

9. Let's Go All The Way (5/5) - Great song, not that comical, but probably my favorite from the album.

10. Let a Killa (3/5) - don't really like it that much.

11. Juggalo Paradise (2/5) - really don't like it at all.

12. Crystal Ball (5/5) - Probably the freshest thing i ever heard. Has Esham & Myzery, making it a killer track.

Check out the other "Bizaar", it's also fresh.

Peace out Juggalos ... Read more

Reviews (12)

THIS RECORD IS BANGIN LIKE GD AND VICELORDS
ALOT OF PEOPLE HATE ON 40 WATER BUT U CANT DENY THAT HE LACES ALL HIS RAPS WITH UNCUT GAME I ADVISE ALL PLAYAS TO GO GRAB HIS CD ESPECIALLY IF U GOT SOME BUMPS IN YO TRUNK CHECH OUT THE SONG LT. ROAST A BOTCH ITS OFF THE HOOK PLUS THE BEATS ARE TIGHT AS A VIRGIN

His second best album, it's still a milestone.
Earl E-40 Stevens has busted his belt buckle this time with a fat album. 40's constant method of breaking down a subject into an extremely entertaining, catchy and off da heezy song is uncomparable. For this album, you must be somehwat of a user-friendly listener. A lot of folks out there don't got a clue as to what 40's saying in his lyrics. Not due to clarity, but to his self-made jargon. But that's just 40, he made an album for his fans, and still squeezed in a few songs for the nonfans. The album titled opener is a fan song, but nonfans will still like it because of the rizight beat. Trump Change is a winner, with the same characteristics as the first song. Lieutenant Roast A Botch is on hit, a follow up to his second album's Captain Save A Ho. For all them hoo-bangers out there, Dump, Bust, Blast, Mayhem, It's On, On Sight and few other tracks are sho shots. For the females, you got From the Ground Up with K-Ci and JoJo. It ain't a female theme? So what? K-Ci and JoJo are on that mug, that's all I care, most any lady out there will quote. For the first time, 40 invited an east coast hip hopper on his album, and he chose a good one: Busta Rhymes. The song Do It To Me with Rhymes is worth a spin. Other notables include $999,999 + $1 = A Mealticket, All Tha Time (with Sick Wid It Records Chief Operating Officer and 40's cousin Brandt B-Legit Jones), Ballin' Outta Control (From The Mail Man EP tape), and Hope I Don't Go Back. Despite the hatas and non-believers critique of 40, he still delivers to his fans a sick album that makes up for the bootsee-ness of his prior album Hall of Game. With unending lyrics, creative slang, a message to get yo change, combined with 40's versatile gameskills, and a slew of guest spots makes this album fetchable ASAP. If you ain't got, get it. If you ain't got it and don't wanna get it, get it. Then get hit by the Element of Surprise.

WORTH THE HIGH PRICE!!!
There are very little disappointments on this double disc, which is quite a feat! This album has a very high replay rate, meaning you'll wanna listen to it again and again. I love this album. I think it would be very funny to hear Kool Keith and E 40 make an album together.

want me to tie your shoes/ i can lace you up.EMODDI@MSN.COM
E 40 HAS ALWAYS TOOK ME BACK TO THE DAYS.EVERY REC IS BETTER THAN THE LAST .AND ANYONE THAT CANT COMP, IS SLOW IM A FEMALE AND I RELATE TO EVERTHIG E40 RAPS ABOUT .AND IF YOU CANT ITS EAITHER BECAUSE YOUR NOT FROM THE STREETS /OR NOT A HUSTLER/BALLER YOU MUST NOT NO ANY ONE WHO IS .IVE HAD A HUSBAND PASS AND E40 ALWAYS TAKES ME BACK AND KEEPS ME MOVING FOWARD SO E40 KEEP UM ROLLIN BOO. YOU KNOW HOW WE DO IT CALLI BOSS BALLIN.

Don't sleep on the valley-jo
For those of you that can't understand what E-40's saying go find the lyrics on the net. Now for those of you who are curious about this album check out songs like "jump my bone" my favourite song of '98. And "... roast-a-botch" was a "don't fight the feelin'" remake but it's still off the hook. In a mjor way IS better but this has 2-cd's with few dissapointments (master p) P.S. i like master p ... Read more

Album Details

The BEP'S Are Back with the First Offering from their Album 'monkey Business'. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Black Eyed Peas stole from R.D. Burman
Most people will tell you how great this album is and how the BEP are so "original" with their genre bending sound. But when you hear this album, you will get the feeling that you've heard it all before (and you probably have). Yes its true that music recycles itself, but I think it is unfair for artists to make money and not give credit to the original.

The sample used in "Don't Phunk with my Heart" is from 1978 Bollywood movie "Don" and the song they sampled from is "Yeh Mera Dil Payar Ka Diwana". Listen to the original, its way better. ... Read more

Reviews (35)

"Compelling" (4.5 Stars)
Just like their debut, "The Once and the Future", Jazzyfatnastees' sophomore album, "The Tortoise and the Hare" is only limited to ten tracks. And just like their debut, it's "short but sweet". The flawless production itself literally smacks you in the face with its fresh-sounding diversity. The vocal harmonizing by Tracey and Mercedes is still instantly intriguing. The album is very consistent, despite the variety of sound types and different subjects. The Latin flavored "All Up In My Face" is a song about backstabbers, basing the story of the song by making biblical references to "Judas". "El Medio Del Misterio" (which translates to "The Middle of the Mystery") has a certain "mystique" in the beat and is about confusion. "Four Lives" is a song that exploits secrets of each family member in a "modern-day picture-perfect" family ("...The love, the hate, the irony/They're living, but they can't be..."). The opening song "Something In The Way" has an old school R&B vibe to it while "Compelled" is in inbred that fuses rock with disco, with the result being a surprisingly catchy song. Though I like pretty much all the songs on the album, my favorite is the "Once and The Future"-esque "Adolescent Blues". It's funny how sometimes the most simplistic track becomes the most liked one; the beat is straightforward and easy to flow to and I can personally relate with the lyrics, which is mainly about how adolescents mentally struggle with problems including drugs, finding their identity, and finding love:

Here I am stuck in this place
I don't know how I got here
Woke up one day
And there I was stuck... waiting
Tryna make a move on what I should do...
I should do?
I've fallen and I can't get back up...

One of the few minor problems I had with the album is that they tended to be repetitive with the hook (like towards the end of "All Up In My Face"). Another is the title track "The Tortoise and the Hare". I understand they were going for an "atmospheric" thing, but I personally think they wasted a good beat with the song consisting of only two lines. But in general, the album is both musically and lyrically exceptional. Calling Jazzyfatnastees underrated artists would be an unfortunate understatement since they have yet to have disappoint, evident with this album.

IF YOU ONLY BUY ONE NEW CD THIS YEAR...LET THIS BE IT!
The Jazzies are one of, if not my absolute favorite, musicians around. I bought their first CD "The Once and Future" and was blown away. The new CD "The Tortoise and the Hare" is equally fantastic. I saw them in concert (one of the best live performances I've ever seen) and have their CDs on constant rotation at home, work and in my car! These ladies are gifted singers, talented writers and excellent performers! The standout songs on "The Tortoise and the Hare" are "Something In the Way" with it's soulfull 70's groove and romantic lyrics, "El Medio" (sang in Spanish I believe) though I only speak and understand English and don't understand a word of this song, it sends chills up and down my spine when I hear it...I can think of only one word to describe this song - SEXY! "All Up In My Face" - the one song that actually gets some radio play, and the always Jazzy, definately phat and consistently nasty "Give A Dog A Bone." Mercedes and Tracy truly put their heart and soul into this album - keep up the good work girls! Your number one fan!

Now!
If you have heard of these ladies, just wondering what they're all about...Come on in! The sophomore LP is everything their name represents, jazzy, fat and so nastee!

The opening track, "Something in the Way" is a smooth ballad about holding on to love for a reason you just can't put your finger on, but you can't let go. "All up in my face" represents the hating phoniness many of us see all the time in our everyday lives. "Adolescent Blues" is just that- blues for a person striving to be free to be herself. "Compelled" starts with a rock beat then switches to a quick dance tempo, keeping you wired from start to finish. The dark "Show your face" is haunting yet intriguing in the sense that the singer may be a little too confident for her own good. One of the best dancehall, hip hop fusions for energetic folks is "Give a Dog a Bone" We've all been there. This song must be played repeatedly. For those more mellow sessions, "El Medio", "Four Lives", "Tumbling" and the title track are perfect.

This album has something for everyone, especially listeners who love soul, jazz and soft ballads. Listen to it from start to finish- it is a rare treat.

BUY IT NOW
I absolutely love this CD. I heard them live in Philly and they were awesome. I just happened to be in philly and decided to go to the 5 spot. I love the energy of the music. It has soul, hip hop, and a bit of rock. They have a unique sound. I was a little late hearing about them but I'm glad that I have been introduced to this interesting and refreshing music. Only one track is so-so- MEdio.

Eh, the first album was better
The first album was captivating. This album was good but ole gals got repetitive. I wasn't suprised. And that's not always a good thing. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Beat Writer Meets Beat-Mixers
In 1992, producer Hal Willner returned to William S. Burroughs' home in Lawrence, Kansas, to record the follow-up to the excellent "Dead City Radio." This time, the author's words are paired up with beats and loops provided by Michael Franti and Rono Tse of the alternative rap group Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy. Burroughs' characteristic voice has been set to everything from orchestral pieces to screaming guitar feedback, and Franti's jazz-influenced music adds a new flavor to the list. Bay Area hero Charlie Hunter also contributes some guitar work to the album. The selections include readings from seven of his books ("Naked Lunch," "Interzone," "Nova Express," "The Western Lands," "The Cat Inside," "The Last Words of Dutch Schultz" and "Exterminator!") as well as some ad-libbed interludes. The epic "Junky's Christmas" was also made into a 20-minute animated short film, and is an alternate version of the story told on "The Priest They Called Him" EP. This album was released during somewhat of a Burroughs revival. He appeared on Ministry's "Just One Fix," collaborated with Tom Waits on "The Black Rider," and a reworked version of "Words Of Advice" was included on Material's "Hallucination Engine." Burroughs is in fine form here, and Franti and company do a wonderful job of backing him up. Sadly, this project was the last we'd hear of the talented Disposable Heroes before they disbanded, with Michael Franti moving on to form Spearhead. Recommended to both followers of WSB and fans of Michael Franti's work.

Disposable Heroes are exacly that... let Burroughs SPEAK!!
The Disposable Heroes have ruined these readings. This CD would have been great if not for the ridiculously cheesy white boy elevator "jazz" muzak and the "so urban it hurts" cliched drum machine samples and Jamaican guy pretensiously farting a few of W.S.B.'s words in his "oh so cool" poetry-slam nonsense. Don't bother with this if you are a lifelong Burroughs reader. You will be very disappointed. This is nothing more than a schoolboy's effort to introduce Burroughs to an audience of contemporary urban hipsters with short attention spans. Get "Call Me Burroughs" or "Dead City Radio" instead, trust me.

a dirty flawed crusty GEM
William S. Burroughs is a confessed junkie, and one of the wild boys. His beat poet-prose just was born to go over some great sampling. It is hard to take burroughs to seriously so this is just cryptic verbal fun.

Burrows has a great reading voice and you just got to love the stuff that comes out of this man. The mild hip hop that is sampled for the readings is a pure delight Many selections are from his novels including Spare ass annie from the naked lunch. I hate to read this sort of stuff but it is great to hear in the background. It will raise some eye brows at parties.

I love advise for young people, Junkies Chistmas and Spare ass anni as well as Mildred peirce reporting.

I you are easily offended by explicited sexual language or attacks on the goverment religon and common desesnce please avoid this at all costs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

listen to my last words anywhere
serendipity. very cool mixture of Hiphopricy's jazz/funk/hiphop grooves and Burrough's always ahead-of-his-time future rants, stream-o-conciousness, and political concerns. whoever thought of this idea was an absolute genius. the production is top notch, and often collides with what Burroughs is talking about in a hilarious or bizarre manner. interesting guest stars too. Ras I Zulu. shooty yeah. out before Dr.Octagon's futuristic blend of wacked-ot lyrics and spaced beats would evolve hiphop two years later. a crucial ingredient. burroughs, disposable hereoes of hiphopricy. burroughs, kurt cobain. these collaborations are priceless.

Hilarious
Sometimes when I am just reading Burroughs, I manage to forget how damn funny the guy is. I get put off by his vividly grotesque descriptions of lobotomies and flying fecal matter and neglect to notice the scathing humor behind it all.
This album really highlights Burroughs the satirist. Hearing Burroughs speaking with his loooong drrryyy draaawwwwwllll really reminds you how he's trying to push your buttons. Burroughs is one of my all time favorite authors to hear read his own stuff, and this CD is no exception in that department.
Plus, as an added bonus, the reading is set to some great music, nice acid jazz and, in the case of the 10+ minute "Junkie's Christmas," traditional x-mas carols, creating one of the most increcdible juxtapoitions in a story of all time and an hilarious piece. All in all, this collection is one of my favorites of Burroughs' readings. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Since the release of his debut, Maxinquaye, Tricky fans have wondered when he would or could match the nightmarish splendor of that trip-hop masterpiece. Blowback may not entirely appease the Tricky faithful, but it is the Bristol innovator's most satisfying album in a while. With Maxinquaye's surreal sonics lurking around its edges, Blowback is wonderfully schizophrenic, cavorting through robotically muted ragga, surging funk rock, nauseous, sample-mangled ballads, and bizarre versions of songs like the 1930s standard "Your Name" and Nirvana's "Something in the Way." In fact, with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, AlanisMorrisette, Cyndi Lauper, and Live's Ed Kowalcyzk along for the ride, Blowback is Tricky's Tommy, delivered through the mouths and muscles of the stars.

Blowback blows up with the arena-rock anthem "Evolution Revolution Love," featuring Kowalcyzk's familiar croon, while Tricky sings backup in a maniacal murmur. The ragga songs, which are dank and claustrophobic, are upended by the queasy flash metal of "Bury the Evidence." Finally, the trudging programming and Japanese vocals on "A Song for Yukiko" make an enigmatic gurgle that sums up Tricky's beautiful, bewildering creation. --Ken Micallef ... Read more

Reviews (57)

blown away
Ok ok ok - so I was trying to figure out the theme being covered in "#1 Da Woman" for the longest time 'til I finally read the title out loud (duh). - It sounds to me like Tricky had more fun with the recording of this cd than any of his past records - I couldn't believe how well the collaborations with artists as diverse as Alanis Morissette, Red Hot Chili Peppers & Ed Kowalczyk from Live went - I was pretty skeptical goin' in since they're all artists I respect but don't really listen to. I was even more impressed by newcomers(?) Hawkman & Ambersunshower. I've only played it once so I can't really name my fave track yet - but Evolution Revolution Love (featuring Ed Kowalczyk getting a very different sound than what I've heard with his own band & Tricky over his shoulder just goin' all mental) & Something In The Way (nails Nirvana's mood if not their sound) stand out right now... Oh ya, & 1-da Woman... & You Don't Wanna (nice use of that Eurythmics sample, Tricky) ...and Girls (w/ 'Chili Peppers Anthony & John). I think it's unfair that every review of any Tricky record has to compare it to a certain brilliant debut album he recorded nearly a decade ago, so I'll avoid that and just say that if this was the only album ever released by Tricky, it would still be one of my favorites. Nice cover, too... Makes me wanna... um... What was I just talking about?

Tricky's Successful Follow Up To Juxtapose
Tricky always hits you hard with the initial track on all his albums. Excess, is just as much of a power ballad as Overcome, Vent and For Real have been. It is actually Tricky's favorite track on the album. The pulsating drum beats from the start make your heart beat so fast you can't help but wanna dance or move to it. Its a great intro to his live shows. The next song, Evolution Revolution Love, is the anthem that most fans seem to love most. Its a song that most definately should get airplay cuz its the closest thing to pop Tricky has ever done even though some of it sounds like reggae mixed with Tricky's devil-like vocals. Great use of horn and acoustic guitar in this piece. The third track, Over Me, introduces a Jamaican reggae rapper named Hawkman and the seductive voice of Ambersunshower. On track four, Girls, Anthony Kiedis from The Red Hot Chili Peppers did vocals alongside Tricky as John Fruschante played lead guitar. I have no idea what this song is about. Please email me if you know the meaning to this song. Track five, You Don't Wanna, is a fun song to dance to. Its also a great intro to his live shows. This is Ambersunshower at her best. The beat to this song sounds very much like the beat to the Eurythmics' "sweet dreams are made of this." After this comes #1 Da Woman, sampled from the Wonder Woman TV show theme. I had no idea John Frasciante sang before but his vocals are stunning. I'm surprised he's not singing or doing lead vocals for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Listen to this song, the lyrics are funny and well written. Then there is 'Name', a slow song with a cool rhythm to it sung by Ambersunshower. After that is Diss Never(Dig up we history), when rapper Hawkman literally takes over the mic with his rhymes. Track nine, Bury The Evidence, is my favorite track on the album. I love the intensity in Tricky's voice as well as Hawkman's in this pompous opus. You have not experienced the power of Tricky until you hear him perform this song live. Its the most intense song you'll ever hear played in concert. Its what i consider to be the climax point of the disc. Sounds more like metal to me but its got pretty much everything in it. Next is 'Something In The Way', a decent cover off Nirvana's Nevermind album. Then comes Five Days , with Cyndi Lauper. Her voice is still great and she is making her comeback to the pop scene. Tricky absolutely adores her and loves her music. Give It To Em, is Tricky and Hawkman making chemistry again. Good use of sound effects in this. And finally A Song For Yukiko ends the album with a woman singing/echoing in Japanese and Tricky slowly rapping, saying something before the cd stops playing. That's the beauty of this, is that it is listenable all the way through. Rare for any artist, Tricky pulls it off.

disappointment
I bought this cd because it is Tricky. I love all his solo albums because they are so unique and challenging. For me I don't like his collaborations and this is no exception. My favourite track is "A song for Yukiko" which is the only Tricky song on the album.

Tricky's Best
Personally, I think Tricky is insane for leaving Massive Attack, which is in my opinion the zenith of trip-hop. Tricky, however, has his moments. Probably his best known song, "Overcome" (see his album Maxinquaye) first caught my attention, but his vocals were a little too overtly sexual for my tastes.
On this album, however, Tricky is more restrained. It doesn't sound like he has some sort of ulterior motives on this one; songs like "Evolution Revolution Love" (the standout track), "Excess", "Bury the Evidence", and "Five Days" are really moving. Be forewarned, though: the soundscape is definitely dark.
Trip-hop may never get its due notice in the U.S., despite the fact that it is perhaps the most artistic genre available. Whether the other reviewers care to accept it, this album is a masterpiece, Tricky's magnum opus.

Not his best, not his worst; perhaps his most approachable
What prompts me to write this review is how so many of the previous reviewers select one or two tracks as their favorites and say the rest proves Tricky's decline -- yet the reviews are all over the map on which couple of tracks are best. There appears to be a general trend in the direction of BlowBack being best in the early going and worse as it wears on, but lots of dissent even there, with some partisans of the Nirvana cover towards the end of the album, or the Cyndi Lauper collaboration even further on. Every part of BlowBack is somebody's favorite part and someone else's utter tripe. Tricky's still keeping us on our toes after all these years.

It's clear from the guest artists on this album (Lauper and members of Live and Red Hot Chili Peppers, for instance) that this is Tricky's attempt to get back on the charts after dimming enthusiasm for his follow-ups to his trip-hop classic Maxinquaye. I am not one of those who think that it's automatically bad to seek popularity and approachability. One of the great things about the Beatles, for instance, was the way Paul's commercial instincts counterbalanced John's introspective artiness. Too much desire to be loved and you end up with sap like Silly Love Songs, it's true -- but too much artiness gets you Revolution Number 9. I was one of those who loved Maxinquaye, but could not follow Tricky farther into his artistic vision than that. I did not enjoy his later albums; they struck me as increasingly harsh, tuneless, and incomprehensible, though I knew they were true to Tricky's vision and sounded just the way he wanted them to sound. I think Tricky's attempt to meet his audience halfway actually improved his work here -- it certainly improved my enjoyment of it.

I liked this album more than anything Tricky has done since the great Maxinquaye (which, of course, is a hundred times the album BlowBack is). I particularly enjoyed his use of Hawkman as a guest on several tracks, and hope to hear more from him in the future. As to whether I can recommend it, I can say this much: BlowBack appears, from the reviews I've seen, to have something for everyone to enjoy -- and something for most of the reviewers to despise as well. This makes me think it's more challenging than people realize. Check it out if the sound samples on this site sound interesting, and perhaps finding out who you agree with about which tracks are classic and which are bad will tell you something about yourself. ... Read more

Amazon.com

On their third full-length project, the crazy Colombian-Dominican rappers from Queens, NY, have set out to murder wack emcees and bury all nonbelievers. The Beatnuts lash out with their self-produced, party-starting beats and signature braggadocio (and usually X-rated) rhymes to commit a Musical Massacre. The flute-filled "Watch Out Now" and "Turn It Out" (featuring Greg Nice) follow the same vein as their 1997 club hit "Off The Books." However, the album's most interesting moment showcases a matured version of the Beatnuts. "Look Around" with Dead Prez finds the duo in a reflective and analytical state, proving that serious or silly, Pscho Les and Ju Ju will always be musical assassins. --Celine Wong ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Buy it dammit!!!!!!
You are a damn fool if you don't buy this album! It's got it all, beats and lyrics. Listen to the beat on "Beatnuts forever" it's amazing!! You MUST buy this!!

Lackluster lyrics+Mediocre beats=Mediocre Album
Lets face it. The Beatnuts do not specialize in lyrics. They are called the BEATnuts for a reason. In my Opinion, the Beatnuts should become producer and stick to producing, because when they get on the mic, well, let's just say it's not an enjoyable listen. The beats aren't too great either, and to get an above average review the beats would have to be fantastic on this one. The best tracks are those featuring other artists, with the exception of the single "Watch Out Now" which would make a better instramental, but a fantastic track nonetheless.

beatpoors poor about again i warned you already
well im sorry but after those 2 poor albums you would think they might produce somthing average well no guess what ladies and gentlemenjust another poor album by the beatpoors i think they go down in history as one of the worst hiphop bands next to,big brothers and b2k. you should be ashamed of even releasing this album you make me sick beatnuts and you cretins out there that bye this album make me even sicker you should all put your heads in a burning oven. listen to fugees,biggie,snoop,mase and nate dogg if you want good music

very unique hip hop
very good cd. there r some great guest appearances on here which really help out tha album. although it would still be amazing if it were them by themselves...i really enjoy thsi cd...has some HOT HOT HOT songs that u will keep playin over and over again. they have funny songs and also songs that make sense...but trust me youll keep this in tha cd changer 4 a long time...it never gets old...buy this!

Better than TAKE IT OR SQUEEZE IT but not STONE CRAZY
Nice album, better than the average hiphop these days, if you a die hard beatnuts fan, then you will love this album. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Essential Purchase
Brand Nubian were one of the essential NY hip hop groups of the early 90s. Make no mistake - they were opportunists. When it suited them to have a conscience on the first album, they rapped "I wanted to be violent but I'm a lover of black mothers/and black mothers need sons/not children that've been killed by guns." Of course, by the time the next album came out it was all about the gangsta. Hence: "Pass Me The Gat/I gotta fight back/I ain't rollin' over on my MF-in' back". (yawn).

In any case, make no mistake, all that aside, this group WAS great. Puba, Sadat X, and Lord Jamar each had very distinctive styles and were great rappers (Puba the best, obviously) and the beats were usually great.

It's easy to nitpick over song selection though: You only needed the LP version of "Slow Down" and could have left off the horrible "Feels So Good" and mediocore "Allah Akbar". If you like this album and want to check out more, check out "Concerto In X Minor", "The Godz Must Be Crazy" and "Pass The Gat" from the Brand Nubes and "Ya Know How It Goes", "Who Makes The Loot?", "I Like It", and "Soul Controller" from Puba's albums.

If You Like Tribe Called Quest and Melodic, Slammin' hip-hop
Tribe's one of my all-time favorites because I love the wordplay and the sheer musicality of it (as opposed to harsh MCs over hook-free tracks or super-sellout bling-blingers rappin' over a Neptunes track).

This album just absolutely kicks. The lyrics are there, the beats are there, the hooks are there... what more could you ask for? I'd put it up there with the aforementioned Tribe and other classic acts like De la Soul.

a potential underground classic. if you don't have'm all
Tribe Called Quest?...nope! E.P.M.D.... no! Sonny & Cher.... hell no!...Brand Nubian was the group that broke my heart when they broke up to go solo. One just didn't work for me without the other. Grand Pupa put out a few nice tracks but never a solid CD and the same for the other half of Brand Nubian. This CD takes all of their great gems and pack them into one phat, blazing CD. This crew brought "knowledge of self" to the hip-hop game along with Grand Puba's claim of putting "Tommy Hilfiger" in the hip-hop main stream.....anyway....This CD also includes some of the hard to find remixes that were not included on the original releases. My gems are: "Drop The Bomb", "Wake Up (Reprise In The Sunshine)", "Slow Down (Pete Rock's Newromix)", "360 Degrees (What Goes Around)", "Don't Let It Go To Your Head", "Punks Jump Up To Get Beat Down (Remix featuring Diamond D)", "Love Me Or Leave Me Alone" and a few others. Not all my favorites are here but still a gem to have. This CD is a must for any fan of Brand Nubian.

oNe ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's difficult to tell whether Pras's debut, Ghetto Supastar (riding on the infectious 1998 summer jam of the same name), is intended as an 18-track infomercial for the newest rap collective, the Refugee Camp (star campers include Canibus, Most Wanted, and head counselor Wyclef Jean) or an elaborate parody of self-proclaimed rap prodigies. The album opens with a "Hallelujah" chorus, closes with "Amazing Grace," and stuffs the middle with weak Dolly Parton interpolations, weaker rhymes ("Two guns blazing / Purple hazing" on "For the Love of This"), and not one, but four separate tracks chock full of shamelessly scripted shout-outs from a horde of bizarre star supporters. (Donald Trump? Mike Tyson? Sting? You haven't heard this many hard-up celebrities since New York City cabs started talking.) There are a lot of reasons this album fails, but the most flagrant is this: for all the effort expended here to raise himself up as the next great Hip-Hop Hope, between the Refugee Camp agenda and the sea of guest vocalists, Pras's presence is nearly invisible. --Todd Levin ... Read more

Reviews (43)

Good Music, Too Many Interludes
"Ghetto Supastar" the single was and still is a popular single. The catchy beat and chorus by a then unknown Mya was irresistable, and the addition of Ol' Dirty delivering his famous weird rap flow was a good plus. I think that the songs on the album Ghetto Supastar, matched that single. They say because Pras was the least known member of The Fugees that he is less talented, but in reality Pras has a better flow and smarter lyrics than his more famous cousin/rival Wyclef Jean.

The only thing that the album bombs on are the interludes. The unnecessary gospel intro's and outro's, in addition to the pointless answering machine messages from celebs, stop the album from being a classic like "The Score" or "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill".

The advantages of this album however are the great music. Guests like Canibus, Free, Product G&B, O.D.B., Mya, Mack-10, and Mostwanted show up on many of the best songs. On "Can't Stop The Shining", Pras, Free, and Canibus all deliver tight verses over a guitar beat of Lenny Kravitz. "Blue Angels", one of the songs that rivals the title track, is made with a beautifully sung chorus by Product G&B, and tight rhymes by Pras. Unlike Wyclef's debut, Pras' actual album doesn't feature Clef or Lauryn Hill, but manages to include Wyclef on the Refugee Sampler that comes with the album. Another favorite of mine is "Yeah 'Eh Yeah 'Eh" featuring Mack-10 and Reptile(who's flow resembles a young Method Man), in which all three lyricists flow over a sort've western, saloon piano beat. The really dramatic songs are "Murder Dem" and "For The Love Of This", both succeed(the chorus of Murder Dem is the only letdown of that song).

In the end, you can either love or hate this album. Pras, as well as the other members of The Fugees, is one of my favorite lyricists and I hope he drops his sophmore soon.

Pras- Ghetto Supastar
Pras (Prakazrel Michel) debut album "Ghetto Supastar" (1998) was an introduction to the Fugees least known member. Executive produced by Pras, Wyclef Jean and Jerry "Wonder" Duplessis. Guest appearances come from Ol'Dirty Bastard, Mya, Product G & B, Free, Canibus, Lenny Kravitz (Guitarz), Mostwanted, Mack 10, and Reptile. This is really a twelve track release as intro(Hallelujah), 1st phone Interlude, 2nd Phone Interlude, 3rd Phone Interlude, Amazing Grace, Final Interlude all fall under category of add on material. Including "Hallelujah" & "Amazing Grace" is somewhat of a unique idea, both are decent- credit going to performers. The four phone interludes are disappointing to me, I dont buy albums to hear celebritys talking on the phone. An interlude is defined as: a musical composition inserted between the parts of a longer composition, a drama, or a religious service. So it makes no sense that the albums last track is called "Final Interlude". That is really about only thing that disappoints me about this album, as everything else is good: Pras's lyrics are on point for most part, beats are sick, and production is solid. Album's title track and lead single is excellent. Track contains interpolations from "Islands in the Stream" (Kenny Rogers/Dolly Parton) as well as sampling James Browns "Get up,Get into it, Get Down". Mya's vocals are great, Pras verses nicely, and Wu-Tang's ODB delivers his trademark crazy flow making this a standout collabration track to remember, one with alot of replay value. After an interlude, "What'Cha Wanna Do" feat. Product G & B and Free follows, love the way this track flows -find it fast moving positive and entertaining, a good track to cruise to. "Blue Angels" feat. Product G & B is albums 2nd single, another good track: Pras's verses are good, but its really the underated duo Product G & B's impressive vocals that make this a track to remember for me. "Can't Stop the Shining (Rip Rock Pt. 2)" feat. Canibus and Free is nice, Lenny Kravitz guitars are sick. "Get your Groove On" feat. Product G & B and Mostwanted is another nice track. This is followed up by some tracks which have Pras by himself, first is the Salaam Remi produced "Frowsey (Pt. 2)" weird sounding track which I am not much into, the short "Dirty Cash" and "For the Love of This" a track that has Pras coming out hardcore, backed by a dark sick beat, another standout song. Grimey "Wha' What Wha' What" feat. Mostwanted follows and is somewhat average as is "Lowriders", though I like the female vocals from unknown A. Holly on the later. Mack 10 & Reptile brings some westcoast flavour on the exceptional "Yeah Eh, Yeah Eh" a memorable track with a dope piano beat. "Murder Dem" is the last full track, as the the next three are interludes as already mentioned. Pras comes across deadly on this one, and the rough powerful beat works well. This album has grown on me alot since I got it, contrary to what some people have said this is not an album with one good song, instead its an album with alot of diversity, with Rap/Rock/Pop/R & B influences. There is a high amount of guest appearances found throughout this album, which sometimes benefit the album alongside tight beats and production. Pras does not go deep like Lauryn, and is not as soulful as Wyclef- he does however remain an entertaining lyrcist and a clever producer who knows how to intergrate his music, collabrate well and diversify to create an enjoyable album. At same time he is hindered by too many guest appearances and interludes, overall this is a decent release. 3.5

f*ck all who diss, Pras is da sh*t(I'm really 14)
Ghetto Supastar isn't as musically charged as Clef's "Carnival"
nor does it bring the gangsta flow he had on Fugees joints, but this cd still holds its own.

The answering machine messages were a lil 2 flaunty for me to
stand, but if you skip past those tyracks, this album is tight.

"Ghetto Supastar" is a hot joint that everyone should hear if they hadn't and "Blue Angels" would've been the likely second single.

The joint with Mack-10 & Reptile(more like a replica of Method Man) is tight because all three rappers deliver tight verses.

The only song I don't like is "Frowsy"(gets 2 annoying after hearing the hook over and over again.

While Pras' deep voice leaves you turning up the volume and listening closely to his rhymes, the album has great beats and great rhymes and it should've made him as popular as Clef or Lauryn.

you can't deny it...
Pras is obviously 1 of the best rappers around. His style is original and his lyrics are incredible. The Fugees were tight and probably cannot be matched by any of their solo attempts, but Pras delivers the goods. Every song is tight! Get it quick.

This [guy] got tight ish!
The third Fugee to release a solo album. I think that among all the Fugees, his the only one who kept the original Fugee style, which is cool. Oh no, don't think the song's are totally similar, Pras also has his "Ghetto Supastar" style! Anywayz, his style is terrific! The album starts by Pras showing how grateful he is to God with the open "Hallelujah" chorus done by a choir. This then leads into the rhymes, the beats and the rhythm of the streets. His debut single "Ghetto Supastar" starts off with a talking intro by that Ol' and a smooth-ballad chorus done by Mya. Pras' verses are tight as what! Ol' Dirty Bastard also throws in some amazing rhymes, an absolute "ghetto" track! Of course, Pras is not gonna give you an album without, gangsta rap style which proves on "Can't Stop The Shining" with Free and Canibus, not to mention Lenny Kravitz playing some hard rock guitar as a background to hard headed spat out rhymes. Throughout the album Pras mainly features the ReFugee Camp Allstars new comers like the amazing R&B duo, The Product G&B. He features them on most of his songs. His rap-ballads are tight, the one that stands out nicely is "What'Cha Wanna Do" and a nice and smooth "Get Your Groove On" If you didn't notice, Pras only used four samples, when as Wyclef and Lauryn used quite a bit for their albums. He used two songs written by The Bee Gees members. If you a type-a person who wants a party bumpin' then listen to tracks like "Wha' What Wha' What" some tight R&B, Hip-Hop and Rap party tune. I think Pras has done an excellent job for himself on this one, congratulations on such a good project is what peeps should tell 'em! Pras is da man, da Fugee and most importantly da GHETTO SUPASTAR! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

NON-PHIXION: THE FUTURE IS NOW INDEED.
This album clearly displays a solid lyric base - full of political inuendos, and every beat is banging. I've read some previous reviews, and the album has been trashed by several reviewers, however - those people must really not care about lyrical diversity and bangin' beats - i care for both, and this is definitely one of the deepest, tightest albums of the moment. There is a lot of broodiness and darkness on this album, and these rappers are on their own, there is no point comparing them to another rap group, coz' every one is unique from the other. That's why they're who they are. The production is amazing, song after song after song. Peep this disc, it's a true killer, and the future is definitely now for these peeps.

Review The Future is Now
Non-Phixion are the illest emcee undergroup hip group in the game. Thier delivery and lyrics context are very good especially thier genre blend of politial,futuristics, and social boundary make the ablum amazing. All the track's beat and hooks are consistent make listener bob thier head to this outstanding music. All the tracks are good especially the cult leader, it us, futurama, and black helicopter.

Add it to the collection
"its the N.O.N. P.H.I.X.I.O.N."
This cd is a great addition to the hip hop collection.
Excellent beats, extremely decent word-play with a dash of humor. If your a true hip-hop head, you wont be let down.
Not to mention you can spend hours starring at the art on the cd cover. ... Read more

Album Description

Critically acclaimed turntablists follow up theirphenomenally selling Built From Scratch with another doseof cut n paste beat-juggling insanity. Artists featuredinclude Grandmaster Flash, Herbie Hancock, Public Enemy,Gang Starr, Rob Swift and more. Sequence. 2003. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Finally.....ladies and gentleman.....Mixmaster Gee
I enjoyed this album a great deal. The art of scratching is almost nonexistent in today's hip-hop. I have been looking for tracks by Mixmaster Gee for some time now and was delighted to see that this album included "Like This"! Hopefully we will see another large hit by Mixmaster Gee, "Manipulator", available very soon. The rest of the album is very good as well. All turntable afficionados should definitely enroll in this piece of hip hop history.

One Hour of Hip Hop Scratchology..
Clocking in at a little less than 60 Minutes, 'Scratchology' will definately take you through the study of Scratching importance in Hip Hop history. The next time you're thinking of taking a drive or a walk, pop this CD in your player and let it ride, because it will definately take you down memory lane with flavor added by The X-Ecutioners!

Scratchology - A mini history of Hip-Hop...
Scratchology - A mini history of Hip-Hop. You could argue why some tracks were left off - No BDP, G.L.O.B.E., Eric B & Rakim, Mantronix, EPMD etc. Yet we still have a great tribute to some of the pioneers of Hip-Hop. In all its a large dose of turntable beat juggling insanity that takes inspiration from the history of hip hop, mixing together elements of the classics and the underground. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Def Jam box tells a story of a sound, a movement, and a lifestyle. Filled with a veritable who's who of hip-hop (3rd Bass, LL Cool J, Public Enemy, Slick Rick, EPMD, Beastie Boys) and some sizzling R&B cuts, this four-CD set is both a greatest-hits package (of the Def Jam/Columbia era) and a shout out to the label that understood the culture--and, more important, knew how to make others get it, too. Perhaps the greatest praise one can give Def Jam is that the label still matters, years after this set was released (see late-1990s efforts by Method Man and Jay-Z, for example). If all your old 12-inches are worn to the groove, then this is a must; but be you old school or new, this collection should be in any hip-hop fan's collection. --Amy Linden ... Read more

Reviews (6)

THE GREATEST COLLECTION OF RAP EVER!
This is the best collection of rap ever assembled! And I agree with one reviewer, this is history in this one collection. From the mid-80's thru 1995, this is some of the greatest hip-hop tunes in the history of the genre! From legends like Public Enemy & LL Cool J to upstarts like The Beastie Boys & Nice And Smooth to one hit wonders like Nikki D. & Domino, this collection is the bomb!

Buy this collection and I might recommend Tommy Boy's Greatest Beats and The Hip Hop Box to go with it. Between those three, you'd have nearly every big hip-hop tune from the 80's until at least the mid 90's! Worth the money!

DEF JAM!
this haz EVERY great def jam song on it by all of the def jam artists.if u dont like this record company then dont rate this cd or buy it.but for people who do......GET 3 COPIES OF IT! u r not a true def jam fan without it. u will not be dissapointed ~1~ love

CLASSIC MUST HAVE
A MUST HAVE FOR TRUE RAP FANS.ONE OF THE BEST GREATEST HITS YOU'LL FIND. ALSO CONTAINS SOME REMIXES AND FULL OF CLASSIC SONGS BY L.L. COOL J

Rap History
this Label is the Motown of Rap.a whose who of rap.Public Enemy,LL.Cool J,EPMD,Slick Rick etc..this is very esential to any collection it speaks of a time and era.

from old school to new school
this has the phatest cuts from brass monkey to regulate.def jam 10 contains some of the dopest songs of all time with artists like L.L. cool j,nice n smooth and slick rick.hearing this album will take yoou back to the origon of hip hop beginings I highley reccomend this to true hip hop fans and music lovers everywhere. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Who knew that "Rapper's Delight" would kick-start the most thorough alteration of pop culture since rock & roll itself? Marking 25 years of commercial hip-hop recording, this four-CD set gathers dozens of key tracks for connoisseurs of every age. In fascinating fashion, it brings together early strains of party rap, gangsta styles, and socially conscious lyrics from a time when they happily coexisted, while showing a convincing grasp of later developments as far afield as Timbaland & Magoo and 50 Cent. (A lack of permissions no doubt accounts for the absence of Eminem, Missy, the Beasties, and Slick Rick.) Every fan, of course, will have his or her own list of must-hear tracks, but this set will earn its place in many an SUV's disc changer. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (9)

EXCELLENT
I am so happy that this came out. This is REAL HIP HOP right here for you guys! This is EXACTLY the kind of rap that should still be around TODAY! Compare this incredible work to the trash you hear on todays radio and you'll see a total difference- back then, rap was about the truth. For all you suckas who are hardout into "bling-bling", girls, sex, cars and all that stupid trash, this is one CD you ALL need to hear because this CD simply explains to you what rap was REALLY about.

I am so glad this was put together because not only does this represent the REAL hip-hop, it also brings back good ol' memories. I mean, who could not forget the unforgettable eulogy for Trouble T-Roy (Pete Rock and CL Smooth- T.R.O.Y.)? Who could not remember the first time Run DMC smashed onto the screens with their endless 'Sucker MC's'? Boys and girls, not introducing but bringing back the REAL HIP HOP! REPRESENT!!!

CD1:
1. Sugarhill Gang- Rapper's Delight (5/5). The endless and classic song that became successful
2. Kurtis Blow- The Breaks (5/5). Who said this song couldn't get you moving?
3. Treacherous Three- Body Rock (4/5). Incredible, beats Chingy
4. Afrika Bambaataa (5/5). ZULU NATIOOOOOON!!!
5. Grandmaster Flash (5/5). Let's put it this way- BEST RAP SONG EVER!
6. Run DMC- Sucker MCs (5/5). Dedicated to all biters, especially you Ja Rule and 50 Cent
7. UTFO- Roxanne, Roxanne (5/5). One of my favorites, especially love the 'ary' and doctor rhymes in this
8. Roxanne Shante- Roxanne's Revenge (5/5). The Roxanne Wars were heated!
9. Salt N Pepa- Push It (5/5). Freaks who later turned out to be REAL hot
10. Too $hort- Freaky Tales (5/5). Before 50, before Snoop, there was rap's first pimp, Too $hort
11. Kool Moe Dee- Wild Wild West (5/5). Definately WILD!

CD2:
1. Eric B and Rakim- Follow the Leader (5/5). This will keep you awake
2. BDP- My Philosophy (5/5). KRS would definately love this album, R.I.P. DJ Scott La Rock
3. Ice-T- I'm Your Pusher (5/5). Excelent, would have preferred 'Colors' though
4. MC Hammer- Turn this Mutha Out (3/5). What's he doing here? Should have replaced him with 'Marley Marl- The Symphony'
5. Public Enemy- Fight the Power (5/5). This is my ULTIMATE anthem song
6. 2 Live Crew- Me So Horny (3/5). Alright, would have preferred Schoolly D's 'PSK (What Does it Mean)' though
7. Biz Markie- Just a Friend (5/5). Nicely done, even though 'Nobody Beats the Biz' is his best
8. De La Soul- Buddy (5/5). Anything by this group suits me fine
9. 3rd Bass- Gas Face (5/5). Another classic to hear
10. A Tribe Called Quest- I Left my Wallet in El Segundo (5/5). Like De La, anything by this classic group is excellent
11. Main Source- Looking at the Front Door (5/5). Large Pro comes out nicely
12. Chubb Rock- Treat 'Em Right (5/5). Large man with nothing to lose

CD3:
1. Naughty by Nature- OPP (5/5). Verses put out nicely by Treach
2. Jazzy Jeff and Fresh Prince- Summertime (5/5). Definately summer's anthem
3. DJ Quik- Tonite (5/5). Another joint from straight outta Compton
4. Black Sheep- Choice is Yours (5/5). Excellent in all ways
5. Arrested Development- Tennessee (4/5). Beautiful though I'd like to see Doug E. Fresh's 'La Di Da Di' here
6. Pete Rock and CL Smooth- T.R.O.Y. (5/5). Best rap tribute from the past to the present to the future. No doubt
7. Digable Planets- Rebirth of Slick (5/5). Cool song to chill out to
8. The Pharcyde- Passin Me By (5/5). Another classic from the pharcyde
9. Onyx- Slam (5/5). This will definately get you pumping
10. Queen Latifah- U.N.I.T.Y. (5/5). Rugged female MC but would have liked 'Ladies First'
11. Wu-Tang Clan- C.R.E.A.M. (5/5). An acronym that soon became golden worldwide
12. Warren G- Regulate (5/5). Smooth lyrics with a smooth beat
13. Craig Mack- Flava In Ya Ear (5/5). Before Biggie, there was Mack
14. Method Man- All I Need (5/5). Dark tales from the slums of chambers

CD4:
1. Redman and Method Man- How High (5/5). Excellent duo to smoke a blunt to
2. Junior M.A.F.I.A.- Get Money (5/5). By far their best hit, 'Player's Anthem' wasn't even good and this was the only good joint they had
3. Bone Thugs- Tha Crossroads (5/5). Eulogy for Eazy-E, one of the best rap tributes ever
4. Scarface- Smile (5/5). I love this song, nice feel to it
5. Busta- Put Your Hands Where my Eyes Could See (5/5). Nice mellow beat where Busta raps fast
6. Timbaland and Magoo- Luv 2 Luv U (2/5). What the hell is this doing here?
7. Gang Starr- You Know my Steez (5/5). PERFECTION!
8. DMX- Get at Me Dog (4/5). Nice, 'Who We Be' would have been better
9. Noreaga- Superthug (2/5). Not really feeling this
10. The Roots- You Got Me (5/5). Excellent, 'What They Do' would have been better though
11. Common- The Light (5/5). Perfect lyrics though 'I Use to Love H.E.R.' would be far much preferred
12. 2Pac- Until the End of Time (5/5). Nice but 'Dear Mama' or 'Changes' would have been much better
13. 50 Cent- 21 Questions (1/5). I don't know what he's doing here, he doesn't even deserve to be called a 'rapper' but just a wanksta who bites off 2Pac A LOT
14. Dr. Dre- The Next Episode (5/5). Excellent joint, Dre's the best producer yet

Yowza!
The Hip Hop Box
review by DJ Pusspuss
Yowza! Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Rap's first major hit is the Hip Hop Box. A collector's 4-CD set with 48-page booklet history exploration with mini-bios and photos - a must for any serious music collector! "The Hip Hop Box...brings together 51 of the genre's greatest turning points, highlights, landmarks and breakthroughs." My picks: Rapper's Delight (Short 12" Version) by The Sugarhill Gang, The Breaks ( Extended Version ) by Kurtis Blow, The Body Rock by Treacherous Three, Planet Rock by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force, Push It by Salt-N-Pepa, Wild Wild West by Kool Moe Dee, Follow The Leader by Eric B. & Rakim, My Philosophy by Boogie Down Productions, I'm Your Pusher by Ice-T, Fight The Power by Public Enemy, Me So Horny by 2 Live Crew, Just A Friend by Biz Markie, Buddy by De La Soul, Left My Wallet In El Segundo by A Tribe Called Quest, Looking A The Front Door by Main Source, Treat 'Em Right by Chubb Rock, O.P.P. by Naughty By Nature, The Choice Is Yours (Revisited) by Black Sheep, Tennesse by Arrested Development, Rebirth Of Slick (Cool Like Dat) by Digable Planets, Passin' Me By by The Pharcyde, Slam by Onyx, U.N.I.T.Y. by Queen Latifah, Regulate by Warren G & Nate Dogg, Flava In Ya Ear by Craig Mack, I'll Be There For You/You're All I Need by Method Mad Featuring Mary J. Blidge, How High by Redman/Method Man, Gettin' Money by Junior Mafia, Crossroads (Remix) by Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Smile by Scarface Featuring 2pac, Luv 2 Luv U (Remix) by Timbaland & Magoo, You Know My Steez by Gang Star, You Got Me (Live) by The Roots & Jill Scott, The Light by Common & Till The End Of Time by 2Pac.

Great Overview of Hip-Hop
the coolest thing about this Box set is that not only the timeline but also the different parts of the Country that are represented.the cool thing is the vibe you get from all the artists on here.Hip-Hop Music has it's own manner&style&isn't going anywhere&you see so many elements&ways it got it's message across to where it is today.enjoy.

Could have had some other songs
Here is the song by song review of this new monumental CD Hip Hop Box there are 51 songs in all on this 4 CD collection.
1.Sugarhill Gang-Rappers Delight This started it 10/10
2.Kurtis Blow-The Breaks This is one of the 4 10/10
3.Treacherous Three-Body Rock still have never heard
4.Africa Baambaataa-Planet Rock-One of the Big 4 10/10
5.Grandmaster Flash-The Message-The song in rap 10/10
6.Run DMC-Sucker MCs(Krush Groove) 10/10
7.UTFO-Roxanne Roxanne-Finally heard it 8/10
8.Roxane Shante-Roxannes Revenge
9.Salt N Peppa-Push It this is great 10/10
10.Too Short-Freaky Tales-Yes they are 10/10
11.Kool Moe Dee-Wild Wild West the original 10/10

12.Eric B & Rakim-Follow the Leader this is tight 10/10
13.Boogie Down Productions-My Philosophy The T'Cha 10/10
14.Ice T-Im your pusha
15.MC HAMMER-Turn this mutha out-needed U Cant ouch this
16.Public Enemy-Fight the Power yes it is awesome 10/10
17.2Live Crew-Me so hornny-This song is okay 8/10
18.Biz Markie-Just a Friend-one tight song 10/10
19.De La Soul-Buddy-This is one collabo 10/10
20.3rd Bass-Gas Mask-needed Pop goes the weasal
21.A Tribe-Left my Wallet in El Segundo needed Senario
22.Main Source-Looking out my front Door-needed Live at the BBQ
23.Chubb ROck-Treat em right

24.Naughty By Nature-O.P.P. this one is awesome 10/10
25.Will & Jazz-Summertime-Summertime is finnally here 10/10
26.DJ Quik-Tonite-needed Born and raised in COMPTON
27.Black Sheep-Choice is yours
28.Arrested Developement-Tennessee-There best song 10/10
29.Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth-T.R.O.Y.-They do Reminese 10/10
30.Digibal Planets-Rebirth of Slick(Cool like Dat)-word 10/10
31.The Pharcyde-Passin me by this song was great 10/10(Stutter)
32.ONYX-Slam this is there classic 10/10
33.Queen Latifah-U.N.I.T.Y.
34.Wu Tang Clan-C.R.E.A.M.-Cash still does rule 10/10
35.Warren G & Nate Dogg-Regulate the number 2 G Funk classic 10
36.Meth & Mary-Your all I need to get by-no words 10/10

37.Redman f Meth-How high(Remix)
38.Junior Mafia-Gettin Money no Juicy
39.Bone Thugs-There best song 10/10
40.Scarface f 2Pac-Smile no other 2Pac 9/10
41.Busta Rhymes-Put your hands where my eyes can see 10/10
42.Timbaland & Magoo-Luv 2 Luv U This was a good video 9/10
43.Gang Starr-You know my steez
44.DMX-Get at me dog this song is okay 7/10
45.Noreaga-Superthug-A good song 9/10
46.The Roots-You got me 10/10
47.Common-The Light brather see i used to love her but still 10
48.2Pac-Untill the end of time 10/10
49.50 Cent-21 Questions where is In da club 1/10
50.Dr.Dre-The next Episode-no aint nothing but a G Thang 10/10

Missed Craig Mack-Flava in ya ear 10/10

And ya don't stop...
Any 30-something person like me who heard "Rapper's Delight" almost 25 years ago (!) isn't surprised to find that one track started a hip-hop revolution. The Hip Hop Box is an excellent compendium of tunes that trace the evolution (devolution?) of crucial rap music, as it moved from underground social commentaries to slick commercialism.

Not every song is killa, and obviously everyone will be disappointed with the songs that got left out. But if the inclusion of hits as diverse as "The Message" and "Slam" and "Rebirth of Cool" and "Just a Friend" doesn't make you smile and nod ya head, well, maybe hip hop isn't for you. Some of the songs will get under your skin, some will annoy you (I have a low tolerance for Craig Mack), but all of them shimmer with the beats of the streets.

Taste is taste, and as Chris Rock once rightly pointed out, hip hop isn't for everyone. But anyone hearing the Hip Hop Box has to recognize the incredible diversity of the music and those who make it. And they'll have to acknowledge that while rock and roll is struggling to breathe these days, hip hop is here to stay. ... Read more

Album Description

On this release he teams up with Black Thought & ?uestlove, from The Roots. Additional artists include Zap Mama andN'Dea Davenport. 13 tracks including, 'Danger Of Love','Duck Chase', 'Vision Of Art', 'With Grace' and the bonustrack 'Final Home' (Remix By Mista Sinista). 2001 Red Inkrelease. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Nipon Icon
In a genre otherwise known as "Abstract" hip-hop, the music of "Zen" has more to do with
Fusion-Jazz and psychedelia, than with formulaic Rap. This allows veteran Japanese DJ Krush to explore new territories without creative restraints, proving that Hip-hop is still an ongoing
experiment, a global phenomenon with a 3 decade history. Where the needle scratches and the
beat stomps through the woofers, the vocals of Zap Mama, N'Dea Davenport (Brand New Heavies) and Sunja Lee soar, while rappers Boss the MC and Black Thought (the Roots) apply
rhythm, reason and rhyme. For all is trademark "Krush" sound, Zen manages to surprise and
elevate a whole genre to new grounds.

Pre-millenium Tension!!!
This is one Krush's best albums. Though it's pretty difficult to say that when everyone of his albums has been a pretty solid release. He strikes a nice balance between the collaborations and the solos. Not all collabs are vocal. The inclusion of Japanese drummer Tunde Anyanyemi on "Sonic Traveller" is a nice touch. Song1 is great classic Krush. Returning collaborator Black Thought(Meiso) does a great job as always and this time drummer Questlove gets a turn on his own track respectively. N'Dea Davenport guests. A great collabration with Marie Daulne of Zap Mama has her flexing her Pygmy power with vocal acrobatics on "Danger of Love". The eerie closer preludes 9/11 which eventually informed his following release. Though the album appears to be darkly textured, hope ultimately lies at the core. Conscious music for the turn of the century. Global Hip-Hop for One World!!!

Atmospheric Beats & Hypnotic Minimalism included¿.....
Having immensely enjoyed 1999's largely instrumental "Kakusei" album, Dj Krush must have been listening when I was wondering what his music would sound like with vocal collaborations, as this album (bar 1 or 2 tracks), features vocalists throughout. Krush shows why he's the master of the minimalist ambient Breakbeat, because whether it's 'Jazz' ("With Grace" / with N'Dea Davenport), Ambient Psychedelia ("Duck Chase" / With DJ Disk), Leftfield Hip-Hop ("Vision of Art" / With Company Flow"), or Downbeat Soul/R&B (Danger of Love / With Zap Mama)....it's all so expertly sequenced, arranged & produced, that its feels as if he's always traded in these genres of music, with Krush laying down dense atmospheric breaks that encompass...Moody, brooding, Nocturnal, Chilled grooves, and come together so sublimely, that he's effectively the 'Dj Shadow' of the Ambient Breaks scene.

A dream from Japan
Nippon trip-hop but not only. A real synphonia of music : sweet (Song 1, Sonic Traveler, With Grace) psychedelic (Endless Railway, Paradise Bird Theory) and the rest between the rap, funk, jazz. There is also a bonus track (the total songs are 13 and not 12) probably the less nice.
D.J. Krush made a big risk with a miscellaneus of sounds (infact people could be disoriented by the changes from a track to another) but the final result is perfect.
It's not a Cd to play single track, one you put on you have to finish it, it's like a classic synphonia!
Only with all songs togheter you can undrstand the total CD.
You can love it, dosen't mind with kind of music you are coming from...for sure you will love it..it's so sweet, so dark, so trip, so smart,..........so ZEN

OUTSTANDING
When his previous LP came out, his first under the label of Sony, I was worried about Krush's potential loss of his musical integrity. On the contrary, he made an album so minimal, even his long lasting funs were surprised. I didnt particularly got hooked to this LP but I respected Krush for doing what he really wanted despite the pressure by his new financiers. That was then. NOW?

I think that ZEN is the outcome of him breaking the mold in the previous one. Krush is more mature now and he has made an exceptional album that will satisfy everyone. Hardcore hip hop funs, trip hop nodders, average mom and pap, in-love girls, trendy company CEOs, old time hippies, etc. It is the epitomy of a commercial album but without any of the negative conotations this definition might bring to mind. It incorporates soul, ambient, techno and industrial elements, mixed with the usual Japanese ultra minimalism, all together but also on their own. In Zen you can find maybe the most sentimental instrumental track in many years, a marriage between scattered guitar strings and saxophone, while the 3rd track is soulful trip hop at its best. Listen to the track no 7 and realise that Japanese raping can be as smooth as velvet, on a heavenly piano melody. Relax and enjoy, albums like this one dont come out too often. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Milight is an album vaguely about the future, peppered with commentary on the subject from Krush's collaborators, of which there are many. Producers DJ Cam and Shawn J. Period; rappers Mos Def, Rino, Tragedy, Ken "Duro" Ifill, and Fista Bundy; and vocalists Deborah Anderson and Eri Ohno add their voices and noises to Krush's metronomic beats and free-jazz scratching. The combination works particularly well on his collaborations with Mos Def ("Shinjiro") and Eri Ohno ("Mind Games," a John Lennon cover), but the album is interesting and consistent throughout. On his third album, DJ Krush has finally found a middle ground between his dark and minimal beat structures and the pop sensibilities of commercial hip-hop, losing the virtues of neither. --Matthew Corwine ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great international Hip Hop
DJ Krush's Milight is a wonderful hip hop recording. While there is fantastic MC work done in both English and Japanese, the focus of this album is still those amazing beats. DJ Krush seems to possess a talent in Hip Hop that I don't think I hear out of many DJ's. Not only does he have one great beat, but an arsenal of many. He likes to mix a little jazz in there too. If you like him check out DJ CAM and DJ FOOD, two of my other favorite hip hop DJ's.

DJ Krush kiks
DJ Krush is a personal favorite DJ for me. Too bad you can't realplay one of the best songs on the album Shin-Sekai.(Broken link for me) Very mellow cd with the right beats for every tune.

as good as meiso!
a couple of years now I listen to ambient but when I heard milight for the first time I was sold! It`s such a good album I`d only knew meiso and the debut cd dj krush! if you like dj krush, shadow, vadim spinna I strongly reccomend you to listen to Aim - cold water music you! Greetz.. see you at the krush concert ;o) !

good
this is a good cd!!i was thinkin that it would have more instrumentals then songs with differents artist singing on it, it has 28 tracks on it, and i say that 20 out of the 28 are good, becuz there are alot of things that should not have been in there, but overall it is a very good cd!!!

brilliant
ive got all krushes stuff apart from strictly turnatablised (which of course is always mentioned as his best and cost forty bucks), but of the us releases this is the best, and really the best dj album i know. its very minimal, very spacey (birds tweeting in the background somewhere on some tracks). this is going to sound really pseudy, but i think krush reminds me of those old japanese things like spare brush painting and tea ceremonies and stuff, just placing a few elements perfectly to draw attention to the space around them. not all his stuff is like that (i mean a few beats with very little high or low end with a few bits of scratching back somewhere in the mix), but this and meiso are and they are both great. id give this one the edge: its instrumentals are just that bit more minimal, and also the raps have better hooks. this is the best lp of its sort full stop. just buy it. ... Read more