Back catalogue: Hip Hop/R&B

Review: Legendary producer Ant, who you will most likely know for his work with Atmosphere, showcases his talent once more here with Collection of Sounds: Vol. 4. This release highlights his years of dedication to his craft and is a great mix of fresh ideas with his signature style. While previous volumes explored hip-hop, funk and reggae, Vol. 4 introduces rock-inspired elements such as wailing guitars, though it still maintains a firm foundation in hip-hop. Tracks like 'Hearing In Dark Colors' and 'Created With a Heavy Brush' display his mastery of diverse styles while 'Day After 2010' offers an unexpected vibe that helps confirm Ant's status in the scene.

Review: This renowned hip-hop producer (and also half of Atmosphere) is a founding member of Rhymesayers Entertainment. His decades-spanning career includes work with MF DOOM, Brother Ali, Murs and more after he was raised in a military family with a deep love for records. Ant's eclectic influences shine in Collection of Sounds, a four-volume instrumental series that his instalment three here and has been carefully curated from his vast archive. It mixes up intimate, haunting tracks with expansive, venue-filling beats. Some compositions invite vocalists yet remain deeply personal and overall, rather than reinventing things, Ant reconfigures his past while staying true to his artistic roots.

Review: Ant's Collection of Sounds Vol. 1 offers a profound exploration of his vast musical expertise. As a cornerstone of Atmosphere and Rhymesayers Entertainment, Ant's latest project delves into his deep archive of unreleased material, presenting a sonic journey that's both intimate and expansive. The album masterfully balances moods, from the eerie closeness of 'Bar One' to the wide-open, atmospheric '4-Track Beyond Beat 1996.' Ant's ability to craft beats that invite exploration is evident throughout, with tracks practically begging for lyrical accompaniment. Yet, he resists the urge to overcomplicate, keeping the focus on the purity of the instrumentals. Collection of Sounds isn't just a showcase of technical skill; it's a reflection of Ant's artistic evolution, blending past influences with fresh ideas. The vinyl's packaging adds a tactile dimension to the experience, featuring a custom green record housed in a beautifully designed jacket with artwork by ZooDeville and Saber. This first volume has Ant's enduring creativity on full display with top notch hip-hop production.

Review: Strictly Leakage by Atmosphere is a free internet download that serves as a gift to fans, showcasing the Minnesota duo's strengths in self-aware party-rocking and battle-rap aggression. The album, released as a complement to a series of EPs, features Slug's charismatic and confident delivery over Ant's sample-heavy production reminiscent of late 1980s and early 90s beats. Despite its party-centered themes, Strictly Leakage maintains a reflective and philosophical tone, with tracks like 'The Things That Hate Us' offering tongue-in-cheek commentary on indulgences and societal issues. Slug's storytelling prowess shines on tracks like 'Little Math You,' where he challenges perceptions of identity and authenticity in rap. Overall, Strictly Leakage is a testament to Atmosphere's versatility and creativity, making it a worthwhile reissue on vinyl for fans to get a hold of.

Review: The long-awaited sequel to Black Star's classic debut, No Fear of Time, showcases bursts of inspired lyricism and highlights the duo's evolution as artists. Yasiin Bey (fka Mos Def) and Talib Kweli continue to reflect on the passage of time, weaving their signature references to Black culture with contemporary relevance. In a world grappling with social issues, their return feels timely, as they channel righteous indignation into cathartic moments, especially on tracks like 'So be it' and 'Yonders'. While some of the chemistry from their youth has shifted, there are still standout moments where their interplay shines. With Madlib's eclectic production guiding them, the duo explores varied sonic landscapes, from the energetic shuffle of 'So Be It' to the jazzy vibe of 'Supreme Alchemy'. As Black Star continues to build on their legacy, No Fear of Time resonates with a thoughtful maturity, inviting listeners to reflect on their journeys through hip-hop and beyond. While its difficult to reach the heights of their debut, it certainly may surpass it to many.

Review: No Fear of Time, the long-awaited sophomore album from the legendary hip-hop duo Black Star, is finally available in physical formats, including a stunning gatefold LP. After a digital-only debut in 2022, this release celebrates the dynamic collaboration between yasiin bey and Talib Kweli, who first captured hearts with their iconic 1998 album. Produced by Madlib, No Fear of Time showcases the duo's evolved artistry, recorded in diverse locations worldwide, including hotel rooms and backstage at Dave Chappelle's shows. The album's unique style flows seamlessly, with tracks like 'So be it' and 'Sweetheart. Sweethard. Sweetodd', igniting old-school vibes while addressing contemporary issues with sharp wit. With their powerful reunion, Black Star reaffirms their influential status in hip-hop, reminding listeners of the genre's rich cultural depth.

Review: Producer, rapper and musician Kurious shares his new album Majician, cementing the legacy he's built in music since at least 1994. Harking back to the style and feel laid down on his debut A Constipated Monkey, Kurious continues to weave a lifelong tapestry of lyrical history and insight, whilst always remaining true to his most signature flow, ducking through and under each pocket in the beat. The tracks are as menacing as they are magnanimous: 'Separation Anxiety' is a personal excoriation by way of lyrical free association, while 'Par For the Course' renders drum breaks from the early Reagan era totally revitalised. The level of work Kurious poured into into Majician thus bolsters his reputation as one of the premier MCs of his time.

Review: After a long hiatus from solo projects, Kurious returns with Majician, an album that cements his legacy as a top-tier lyricist. Known for his 1994 debut A Constipated Monkey. Kurious delivers a fresh yet familiar sound on this new release. Produced by Mono En Stereo and executive produced by the late DOOM, Majician is a masterful blend of intricate wordplay and reflective storytelling. Tracks like 'Eye of Horus' showcase Kurious' ability to effortlessly navigate complex beats with insightful rhymes, while 'Separation Anxiety' delves deep into personal themes through sharp lyricism. 'Par For the Course' revitalises classic drum breaks, bringing a nostalgic yet innovative touch to the project. Majician is more than just a comeback; it's a powerful reaffirmation of Kurious' skill and dedication to the craft. The album's meticulous production and introspective content highlight Kurious as an MC who has not only endured but evolved.

Review: First released in 2004, Mf Doom's 'Mm..Food' is a critically acclaimed hip-hop classic that stands out for its imaginative production and clever lyricism. The album weaves food-themed metaphors into sharp social commentary, creating a unique narrative full of humor and depth. Tracks like 'Beef Rapp' explore the glorification of conflict, while 'Hoe Cakes' and 'One Beer' touch on themes of indulgence and escapism. Celebrating the 20th anniversary, this reissue is available on 2xLP galaxy vinyl, with all-new artwork by Sam Rodriguez, making it a must-have for collectors and fans of Doom's singular creative vision.

Review: MF Doom's 2004 release marked a high point in the hip-hop don's discography, brimming with his signature blend of inventive production and intricate wordplay. Across the album, he uses food-related metaphors to delve into themes of vice, violence, and the complexities of ego. 'Beef Rapp' opens the record with a sharp critique of conflict within hip-hop, while tracks like 'Hoe Cakes' and 'One Beer' explore indulgence, escapism, and excess with Doom's trademark wit. The track 'Rapp Snitch Knishes' is a direct jab at the contradictions of self-incrimination, highlighting the absurdities of some rappers' behavior. With its blend of humour, sharp social commentary and a deft lyrical style, this album remains a standout in the genre, demonstrating Doom's ability to layer serious themes with a playful touch.