DJ Sav One & DJ Dyllemma "FreeOfStyle" (Mixtape, 2012)

We put this mix together (in 2012) reminiscing on the days of golden era CASSETTE mixtapes. It should bring you back to that analog vibe with the sound, substance and live mixing. The theme is an ongoing debate over the two meanings of “Freestyle”: off the top of the head verses and/or unreleased writtens (discussed by Big Daddy Kane in the Intro as ‘FreeOfStyle’). The mix is 40 minutes long (all golden era content) and is 1 side of a forthcoming cassette release with original content on the flip-side. The sources are old cassettes, white label vinyl and an occasional CD. Peace to the all the DJs who laid the foundation and pushed the culture forward - this tape is as much an ode to those pioneering DJs as is to the MCs who held it down on the mic. - DJ Sav One (Update: Got a takedown notice, so a new post to update the embed link below). One-track version is HERE.

Reef The Lost Cauze "The Majestic" (Album Stream)

"The Majestic" is the brand new solo album from veteran Philly MC, Reef The Lost Cauze. One of the hardest working MCs, there's always new verses and features to hear with Reef, even some collab projects. But, it's a different beast when he locks in on a solo project. Add to it a Happy Born Day to Reef, there's a lot to celebrate here. The album is available across all platforms, but those of you who want a physical copy, you should click HERE to get it before it ultimately sells out. More than boasts of 'I'm a better MC than you' (he is), Reef speaks with the tone of a seasoned lyricist, sharing his experiences on record and perhaps suggesting where things have gone wrong in the world and the culture, like on "Naked," where Reef asks us to think of the bigger picture:

"...But what about the spirit, the soul that we carry  

In the end that's all we have when these old bones are buried 

When you meet God and he asks about your life 

He ain't gon' give a f#ck about your followers and your likes 

... get it right."

Lenny D "The Best of Sadat X" (Mixtape, 2008)

A founding member of the legendary Brand Nubian, Sadat X continues to lead the race while many of his peers have long-since passed the torch. Few artists in any genre have achieved the longevity, notoriety, and critical acclaim that Sadat X has earned over the course of his three-decade-long career. And yet, he's still an underrated artist in the grand scope of things. This "Best Of" mixtape by Lenny D showcases Sadat X in his rightful place alongside some of the greatest spitters of our culture. The mix - originally released in 2008 - features group tracks with Brand Nubian, solo tracks and collaborations with Akinyele, Grand Puba, House of Pain, Diamond D, Lord Finesse, Money Boss Players, Kurious, Jungle Brothers, Common, RA The Rugged Man, Ed O.G., and more! HBD!

Bub Rock "Rock Season" (Album Stream)

Rock Season is the latest offering from Long Island MC, Bub Rock. The 14 tracks show growth in his rhyme style and patterns, and the production is stellar throughout as well. The LP features Codenine, Broz, Rome Streetz, as well as production by Fith, JLVSN, Artivist, The Historian, Ecto 84, Seth Silensir, The Standouts, Giallo Point, AP, Wavy Da Ghawd and Don Carrera. People I rock with have been sending me Bub Rock's music, and Rock Season is now in rotation, give it a listen below...

Eddie Ill & D.L. "A Trip Below" (Mixtape, 1998)

Eddie Ill & D.L. hit hard with their double-cassette mix tape release "A Trip Below" in 1998. Reppin' the underground; the subterraneous-independent scene with all its purity, this tape transports you back to a special time for me in NYC. The mix features freestyles and tracks from artists such as J-Live, Kwest Da Madd Ladd, N.O.T.S. Click & Big L, Skam & Eminem, Reflection Eternal, Mike Zoot, Shabaam Sahdeeq, Mass Influence, Mr. Voodoo, Saukrates, Choclair, Scienz Of Life, Natural Elements, Mad Skillz, Poison Pen, Breez Evahflowin', Arsonists, Scientifik, Rawcotiks, Jemini Da Gifted One, Indelible MCs, Adagio, Juggaknots and EVEN more! It oesn't get much better than this... listen below.

Cormega "Mega" (Album Stream)

Cormega (Mega) brings you a secret project entirely produced by STREETRUNNER with Co-Production by Tariq Azzouz. Cormega describes this as art, culture and vibes. The Mega project has only one feature by Havoc of Mobb Deep on the song “Live Your Best Life”. All Instrumentals are also featured on this release, and the lyrics to all the songs are printed on the back of the vinyl record jacket and in CD and cassette artwork. This is Cormega’s first solo release since his 2014 Large Professor produced “Mega Philosophy." He's always got a lot of perspective and truth to share in his music, which has earned him a loyal fanbase over the years. Stream "MEGA" below...

Storm Troopz Corps "Basick Trainin" (Vinyl, 1998)

This one has been circulating since my first blog in the mid-2000s, but guess how much new information I have about this release? None! It's not talked about much, nor posted too heavy online, which is unfortunate. That said, Storm Troopz Corps independently released "Basick Trainin'" on 12" and cassette single in 1998. It's not a flawless record, but the Full Metal Jacket intro and the hard beat always caught my attention. The tape and vinyl include dirty, clean and instrumental versions of "Basick Trainin" and the vocal version of "This Is War" on the B-Side. I couldn't dig up the 12", but I'm filing it under "Vinyl" because it fits with similar 90s gems in that section of the site.

Vstylez "Thornton Melon" (Album Stream)

Thornton Melon is the sophomore album from Detroit emcee, VStylez. The good homie enlists some immense talent for his long-awaited follow to At Oddz 'Til I'm Even, with features from Skyzoo, M.O.P., Finale, Kool G Rap, O.C., Masta Ace, Crooked I, and production from my brother, MoSS, Pete Rock, Nottz, Big Gov, Apollo Brown and more. With their help, VStylez puts on another display of sharp lyricism and bangin' production. Listen to the 12-track project, Thornton Melon, below...

Ras Beats "The High 5" (EP Stream)

The High 5 EP represents the five boroughs of New York City, the five fingers in a fist, five songs, five different emcees, and five beats from one producer. The EP is boom bap at it’s funkiest, featuring five different wordsmiths (John Jigg$, Vic Spencer, Sully Nomad, Supreme Cerebral, and Ralphiie Reese) who are some of the best at what they do. This serves as the follow up to Ras Beats’ 2016 album Control Your Own that received critical acclaim, worldwide airplay and co-signs by some of hip hop’s best djs (DJ Premier, DJ Eclipse, Beatminerz, House Shoes & more). - WRGs.

DJ Beanz "Reigning Real: Money Miz Mix" (Mixtape)

Peace to the good homie Money Miz .... "You may or may not be familiar with Hip Hop aficionado, Money Miz. Well, if you’re not, we suggest you follow him! His impeccable taste in that Golden Era and new, grimey underground Hip Hop, inspired DJ Beanz to put together a mix for Miz. Mainly picking tracks from each of his favorite albums, one mix couldn’t cover 1/4 of the fire!" Stream the mix below, featuring joints from Mobb Deep, Termanology, Crimeapple, Cormega, Big Pun, Apathy, Jeru The Damaja, Conway & Elzhi, Hus Kingpin, Benny The Butcher, Raekwon, Jedi Mind Tricks, GZA, Evidence and more. While available, you can also download it HERE. Hit the follow. Merry Christmas!

Children Of Zeus "The Winter Tape" (Album Stream)

Some more dopeness from UK's favorite duo of Konny Kon & Tyler Daley, better known as Children Of Zeus. "The Winter Tape" is a free 14-track project, featuring production from Detroit's Black Milk, DJ Green Lantern, Beat Butcha & more, plus a nice feature from Milano Constantine. A thoughtful present to the fans to kick off our Christmas Eve, bundle up and lock in with The Winter Tape, available to stream in full and/or download below. Happy Holidays, y'all... stay safe and blessed! 

House Of Pain "Video Press Kit" (1992)

This is the video press kit from House of Pain for their debut album in 1992 on Tommy Boy Records. House of Pain consists of Everlast, Danny Boy and DJ Lethal. At the time, Fine Malt Lyrics was one of the most popular albums and spawned one of the biggest rap hits ever with "Jump Around." Danny Boy describes their music as "drunken, street-fighting rhymes." Everlast explains that the name House of Pain was a reference to jail, but that his personal view of what House of Pain means is, "It's my head; it's my House of Pain - it's where everything goes on with me." He adds, "Life is pain and anyone who tells you different is selling something." Later, they discuss their individual roles in the group, then shift to how Everlast and Danny Boy met at Taft High School in Los Angeles, California. In '92, their hope was that fans would judge them based on the content of the music only. To me, Fine Malt Lyrics and Same As It Ever Was were both classic albums with a ton of great records on each of them. The video also features a brief appearance from B-Real of Cypress Hill.

Ta-ku "25 Nights For Nujabes" (Instrumental Album)

"25 Nights For Nujabes," a beat a night for 25 nights in dedication to Jun Seba, better known as Nujabes. His music was so full of emotion and beauty. Ta-ku teams up with Jakarta Records to share his now-classic, "25 Nights For Nujabes" project for the first time as an official digital and vinyl release along with two completely new bonus tracks which feature Toronto-based producer Matt McWaters. Ta-ku says, "I have decided to finally release one of my favourite projects that I made back in 2013; "25 Nights For Nujabes." This has a very special place in my heart and is available now on your favorite digital platforms." Rest In Peace, Jun Seba. You can stream the project below.

Big Ghost Ltd "Starkstrumentals" (Instrumental Album)

Big Ghost LTD presents the Instrumentals to this year's release with Ghostface Killah "The Lost Tapes." Not too much to say about this one, just some really dope and soulful instrumentals that were right and exact for Ghostface Killah to bless. Make sure you give this a thorough listen and consider supporting the cassettes, vinyl and/or the deluxe packages that are available to "The Lost Tapes." If you're not already following Big Ghost Ltd. on social media, rectify that ASAP, click HERE.

Mic Geronimo "Shit's Real" (Video)

In a lineage of eMCees we've championed over the years, Mic Geronimo had a very dope run in the 90s. "Shit's Real," "Masta IC," and breaking features for artists like DMX, Jay-Z, Ja Rule and more solidified a position for him between his peers. Some tough decisions - perhaps based on his own loyalties or career plans - made him fall back from music, but he appears to have stood on his own principles, and his footprints are still felt on the golden era playlists of any true DJ and fan of hip-hop. When Steve Stoute went on the ledge and threw shade in his direction for how his career turned out, Mic Geronimo was quick to set the record straight about how he owns his own business and continues to live a blessed life, on his own terms. Mic's name popped up again in the Dame Dash vs Funk Flex beef, where Flex attempted to declare that if it wasn't for Def Jam, Jay-Z's career woulda went the way of Mic Geronimo. Where's all this shade coming from? Flex, you're reaching. Let me just say in case I haven't said it before, someone else's definition of success is subjective -- don't project your views and definitions on another person, you come off sounding crazy! Sure, Irv has definitely done incredible things in and for hip-hop, but that's not to say that the falling out between him and Mic Geronimo was anything less than a difference of opinions or perspectives. Some people don't mix and fame isn't a drug every artist can handle. Let that man live on his own terms. We wish him the best over here. Now, back to the music... follow him HERE.

Knitting Factory: The Final Show (December 19, 2008)

Dec. 19, 2008: lowkey, this is a day in NY hip-hop history, people don’t talk about it much though. Remembering it on it's 10th Anniversary: It was snowing outside, my view was from the 2nd floor at 406 6th Avenue, better known as Fat Beats. It was our annual Christmas Party. Always a fun time with drinks and food, DJ sets and of course, more artists came through to show love if they got an invite. This night was extra special bc I was keeping an eye on the clock, knowing that it was the very last hip-hop show at Knitting Factory about 2 miles away. Peep the bill: Rakim, Black Thought, Souls of Mischief & you know every NY MC would touch that stage one final time. I was at every show - week day or weekend, I was in the building - so I wanted to roll through but it was getting late, snowing and I had some drinks in me, lol. I started to get texts about the show, who was killin it, who was backstage, etc etc. At some point, the texts went left bc of an incident I can’t really talk about, but suffice to say ...the final show was not without it’s drama outside the venue, unrelated to the music. I was tight about it too. Of course, I waited to see if Photo Rob would post photos of the show I never made - a big regret of mine - but I was amongst good friends and with Fat Beats closing years later, I’d probably regret it had I not been there too. Fortunately the good brother, Homeboy Sandman, was in the building to perform and shared some of the footage for us...

Philmore Greene "Chicago: A Third World City" (Album Stream)

Chi-Town's Philmore Greene drops his new project, "Chicago: A Third World City," featuring Yardbrough, Rashid Hadee, Neak, FLYKelly, and more. With the exception of one song produced by Neak, the project is produced by Rashid Hadee, who you should definitely check out, as well. A socially conscious and aware effort, you can hear it in the music and see it in the artwork done by Zeph Farmby. Chicago needs artists to continue to be the voice for the voiceless. You might have caught his #PhilmoreMondays releases online, but this is my official sleeper choice for the month, dig into it below and follow Philmore Greene to stay current on his music. "Love is the only answer."

Brock Berrigan "Cadillac Mountain" (Instrumental Album)

Brock Berrigan is a beat maker, music enthusiast, multi instrumentalist, sample hunter, and alleged town drunk, lol. To describe the latest instrumental release, Brock explains, "Been working on this project for a few months now. Spent some time experimenting with some new sounds, tried to make this album a little different. Went back out to Utah to put the final touches on the album and finished it in a motel in the middle of the desert. Limited vinyl will be available, listen to it below...

Loud Records Holday Dinner (December 16, 1998)

On December 16, 1998, Loud Records / SRC (Steve Rifkind Company) held a special holiday dinner. In unique fashion, the holiday dinner menu was artist-themed. Examples, you ask? Ok, how about we start with the appetizers: Sadat X Calamari: batter fried calamari with basil mayonnaise and chili pepper cocktail sauce. Wu-Tang Tuna: sesame nori crusted tuna with grilled shitake mushrooms, watercress bean sprouts, snap pea salad, served with wasabi ponzu dipping sauce. Alkaholiks Pizza: margarita, tomato and basil sauce topped with mozzarella. Lastly, Xzibit Salad: baby greens with goat cheese, walnuts, mushrooms and mustard vinaigrette. Moving on the entrees, you could choose from the Raekwon Burger: hamburger with mesclun greens, tomato, onion and french fries; choice of American, Swiss, or cheddar cheese. Penne a la Mobb: penne putanesca (chopped over roasted tomatoes, anchovies, black olives and capers). Cella Dwella Chicken: roasted chicken with mashed potatoes and french beats. Yvette Michelle Veggies: vegetable plate - assorted grilled vegetables, cous-cous and sauteed spinach. I'd be full at this point, but they also had a Delinquent Habits dessert and more to keep you entertained throughout the Holiday dinner. If it were me, I'd grab the Alkaholiks Pizza and either the Raekwon Burger with American Cheese, plain, or the Cella Dwella Chicken. Much success to Steve Rifkind bringing Loud Records back. A throwback to his 5th...

It also reminds me of this - similar - but different and worth reading...

Jazzsoon "Heavy Archives" (Beat Tape)

Jazzsoon returns with another, soon to be rare and sought after release entitled, "Heavy Archives". This time taking a break from the conceptual beat tapes like "Taxi" or the most recent "Cosby Tape," Jazzsoon went back into his archives and compiled 3 to 4 albums worth of music that hasn't seen the light of day for some years... until now. Available on cassette and special numbered debut 7" vinyl (limited to 300 copies), this will be the first installment in the "Heavy Archives" series brought to you by Strictly Cassette. Be sure not to miss out on this gem. The release notes don't say nearly enough about how truly dope some of these beats are - definitely give it a thorough listen below...

Busta Rhymes "Extinction Level Event" (Press Kit, 1998)

"Busta Rhymes is more than aware that there are plenty of vipers out there who want his game. For example, a recent article put forth the notion that his tremendous underground appeal might wane under the weight of his ever-expanding hold on mainstream audiences. But Busta never flinches. For the man who had the courage to condemn rap's whole 'keepin' it real' mantra as "Propaganda," this new challenge is but a blip on his radar screen. Rap's most incandescent visionary has always been more interested in shedding light than heat. Which is why, throughout the '90's, Busta Rhymes has managed to fuse his everyday experiences as a black man, as a son, and as a father, with much more eternal concerns. Leading him - as he says - "To contemplate the shit between the lines." Selling millions of albums by remaining true to himself." Cont'd below...

"So it's with his boldest strokes yet that he's approached his third solo album, Extinction Level Event (The Final World Front.) The 19 song disc is an apocalyptic tour de force, with Busta - who now commands the listener's attention with a rock star's ferocity - unleashing thought provoking verses one minute, and spitting out euphoric hailstones of hectic, teeth clenching rhymes the next. E.L.E. is Busta's crowning epoch. A maelstrom of enlightened, turbulent wordplay about the impending millennium. But where other rappers have only recently immersed themselves in the year 2K, Busta has long wielded a futuristic sword about him. The day of reckoning has served as subtext of his two smash platinum plus solo albums, 1996's The Coming, and 1997's When Disaster Strikes. But it was during Busta's tenure with the legendary Leaders of the New School, launched in 1990, that he first explored such explosive subject matter. Many point to the Leaders second LP, 1993's T.I.M.E. as the beginning of Busta's fascination with the extinction theme." - Press Kit, 1998. Happy 20th!

Swizz Beatz x Nas "Echo" (Video)

Nas is in my top 3 MCs of all-time, but I was only willing to give "NASIR" two full listens before deciding that it just wasn't gonna grow on me. I've shared my thoughts on how it turned out, most of my criticisms falling on the post-production work by Kanye West. It's because of tracks like this Swizz Beatz and Nas collaboration, "Echo," that Nas can drop a poor project and still be championed as one of the greatest MCs of all-time. This is classic Nas: "We was Times Square pioneers, 40 deuce, 40-below boots / 40 ounce brew, the true Bishop from Juice / Runnin' wild, loose, me and my 40 troops were stupid / Style, it was snorkel coats, Polo gooses, ruthless..." Can you see it when you hear it too? I don't post many loose videos, I'm an album-minded fan and I like album-minded artists, but while I have very little interest in hearing a DJ Khaled album or a full Swizz Beatz album, when they feature Nas, I'm tuned in for THAT. No shade... I don't need to be at - or tune in to see - Nas and Kanye West's private listening in Queensbridge or accept an invite from Mass Appeal / Epic Records to see a private viewing of the "Echo" video, I just wanna hear it and enjoy it like a fan. Give me a 45 of this, and you'll have my $$$, but it'll take more to get me to cop the full-LP. Enjoy below...

Crimeapple "Sweet Dreams" (EP Stream)

The artwork for the new project, Sweet Dreams, from New Jersey's Crimeapple boasts, "welcome to your new nightmare." From Metraletta, arguably one of the best hip hop debut releases in years, to the Perfect trilogy, Crimeapple has been on fire since his entrance a couple years ago. Along with producer Buck Dudley, they have been supplying filth consistently. Sweet Dreams is nothing short of that and includes the original tracks and the instrumentals. Available on vinyl, too. (Updated).

The Notorious B.I.G. "Rapsheet" (Press Kit, August 1994)

Date: August, 1994 ... The Notorious B.I.G. Rapsheet was sent out to press as a unique piece of promo that shares some humorous "info" to hype the name switch from Biggie Smalls (1993) to The Notorious B.I.G. (1994) and his debut album, "Ready To Die," dropping a month later on September 13, 1994 via Bad Boy Entertainment. His criminal history included arrests for "Criminal possession and Illegal use of deadly rhymes," "Beat trafficking," "Criminal possession and use of a narcotic lyrics," and "17 counts of aggravated mic assault." The status on all counts? Acquitted!! (If you don't know ... now you know!) From B.I.G.'s alliances, nickname, counsel, DOB, race, sex, height and of course, B.I.G.'s hometown of "Representing B.K. to the fullest!," you can read more below. Originally released in 1994, you can order a full res copy, available in the online store with postcards and more while available...

Aztek The Barfly "Line King" (Album Stream)

Detroit's Aztek the Barfly and Foul Mouth collaborate on Aztek's third solo album, Line King. The album features Jake Knew, Kid Vishis, J-Classic, Bang Belushi, Aaron Taylor, King Gordy, Hatch, and Fatt Father. The Detroit hip-hop scene has a ton of talent, especially some of the rawest spitters in the underground. The nostalgic soul samples from Foul Mouth provide the backdrop for Aztek and a host of other Detroit MCs to do their thing. There's dope chemistry on this project, listen below...

Jonwayne "Yuletide Bangerz" (Instrumental Album)

A nice beat tape from LA rapper and producer, Jonwayne. The tape will help get you in the Christmas spirit this Holiday season. "Yuletide Bangers" features 17 instrumentals, all chopped full of original holiday samples, vocals and a bit of comedy spliced throughout the project. One of the more enjoyable beat tapes I've heard in a while. If you haven't peeped Jonwayne's back catalog, spend some time and work through it. He's a talented emcee and producer with a lot to offer. Dig in...

Black Thought "Streams of Thought, Vol.2" EP (Album Stream)

Back in June, Black Thought released his debut solo project, a 9th Wonder-produced EP called "Streams of Thoughts Vol.1." We now have the second of three EPs in this series, "Streams of Thoughts Vol.2." This go around, Black Thought has enlisted the work of legendary producer Salaam Remi, most known for his work with Nas, The Fugees, Amy Winehouse, and Zhigge, among others. My favorite song is the opening track, "Fentanyl," which tackles the topic of opioid addiction: the dangers of, who profits from it, and the politics behind it. He does so over minimalist production, showcasing his flawless delivery and offering deep insights like these impactful lyrics below, saying...

"Another destroyed life was meant to be more righteous
in the face of this full-on opioid crisis

While the wolves pull the wool on and prey on vices

Still the dogs with the hood on is way more frightenin'

For death, you're not ready

Trust me, I'm deadly as the Fentanyl that killed Prince and Tom Petty..."

DJ Premier vs. Masta Ace (Mixed by DJ Tiger)

Big-up to DJ Tiger of Full Blast Radio, who put this ill blend tape together. Full Blast Radio is an online radio station from NY operating in Georgia. You can stream the mix below and click HERE for more information on DJ Tiger and his show, Full Blast Radio. Much respect to Marco Polo and Masta Ace, who released a classic album together "A Breukelen Story," and of course, you always wanna follow the legend, DJ Premier, in all that he does right HERE. Enjoy DJ Tiger's mash-up mix below... 

Blame One "The 34th Scroll" (Album Stream)

The 34th Scroll is the latest release from West Coast MC, Blame One. The new project is entirely produced by Veks of Last Jazz Club, and mastered by the almighty Thes One of People Under The Stairs. The 34th Scroll features guest appearances from Blu, One Be Lo, Choosey, Kair One, Exile and Flashius. If you cop the vinyl, you'll get the original tracks, as well as the instrumental versions.

Rapper Big Pooh "RPM" (Album Stream)

The MC known for his role in the Little Brother trio dropped full albums with Nottz (Home Sweet Home) and Apollo Brown (Words Paint Pictures) in 2015 on Mello Music Group, and in 2016 he self-released the Everything 4 Sale EP. Similarly, Dr. Dre/Aftermath Entertainment affiliate Focus… had busy years in 2015 and 2016, but was relatively quiet in 2017. So, the RPM (Rapper Pooh Music) collaboration album should satisfy listeners who have been eagerly anticipating this fix. For those not familiar with Focus…, he is the senior producer in Dr. Dre’s Aftermath stable. His production (Slum Village, The Game, Dr. Dre, Xzibit) is marked by clean samples and big drums. That is exactly what he serves up from the jump on RPM. - AFH. RPM is aptly named. The project holds an organic feel both content-wise and rhythmically. Focus… laces several tracks with subdued basslines and raw drums to back Pooh’s assertive delivery and cypher-esque quips like, “Wannabe Zach Morris’s when they all Screech” on “Burn.” Pooh’s rhymes, however, carry much more weight than a witty one-liner. He is equal-parts introspective and externally aware, and listening to him navigate through life and the world is no less engaging than it was during his Little Brother days. - DX. Listen below...

DJ Eclipse "Pre-Season" Mixtape (1996)

Throwback to 1996 with DJ Eclipse's classic "Pre-Season" mixTAPE. A nice mix of tracks from Jay-Z, Jeru The Damaja, Royal Flush, Lord Finesse, Lil' Kim, Godfather Don, Sadat X, Ed O.G., Pete Rock & CL Smooth, Nas, De La Soul, KRS-One, The Beatnuts, Keith Murray, De La Soul, Organized Konfusion, The Roots, Al Tariq, Artifacts, M.O.P., Capone-N-Noreaga, Mobb Deep & more. Dig into the mix below.

The Alchemist "Bread" (EP Stream)

Alchemist has been busy behind the boards! His latest effort, Bread, is a four-song EP that enlists Earl Sweatshirt, Westside Gunn, Conway, and Roc Marciano. The EP is split into two sides, one with the original tracks and the other with their tight instrumentals. Bread is the companion EP to Lunch Meat, which dropped back in April. For those looking for stringent hip-hop, artful lyricism, and superb instrumentals, Bread will satisfy your hunger. - via HNHH. Dig into his latest EP below...

9th Wonder Presents "Jamla Is The Squad II" (Album Stream)

Jamla Is the Squad II is the second compilation by 9th Wonder’s Jamla Records, a sequel to 2014’s Jamla Is the Squad. The 22-track project boasts features from J. Cole, J.I.D, Pharoahe Monch, Rapsody, Busta Rhymes, Black Thought, Big K.R.I.T., Elzhi, Conway The Machine, Actual Proof, SiR, David Banner, and more. The production is handled by 9th Wonder, Khrysis, Nottz, Kev Brown, Eric G, and more. 9th Wonder has been leading the way for years, you can count on good music below...

Dag Savage "Furnace" (EP Stream)

"This EP is a kind of juxtaposition between what we want to hear and what we need to hear,” Exile tells HipHopDX. “The song ‘Furnace’ featuring Fashawn and The Last Artful, Dodgr is just a fun weed song to help give us a smoke break from the state of the world. However, the B-side is quite the opposite. 'If You’re Down’ featuring Blu and Cashus King is very much a discussion about the ills of this world but also a call for unity of all races and religious beliefs to stand up for humanity and social justice. Be on the lookout for this and more on the Dag Savage sophomore album due out in late 2019." I'm here for whatever Exile puts out, so I'm sharing even though I haven't peeped it YET!

1982 (Statik Selektah & Termanology) "Still 1982" (Album Stream)

It’s been 6 years after the last collab from Statik Selektah & Termanology as 1982. Since the last album, 2012, both have dropped critically acclaimed albums such as What Goes Around and More Politics. They return with their signature sound on songs such as “Can’t Let It Go” and “Different Now”. They also continue the tradition of introducing new talent, as they previously have with the late Mac Miller, Action Bronson, and Freddie Gibbs. Meet UFO Fev, Fat Joe’s newest signee. CJ Fly of Pro Era and battle-champ NEMS also appear. STILL 1982 fills the gap in an era of auto tune & repetitive sounds that will last the test of time. Props to Statik and Term, dig into it below...

The Audible Doctor "Doctorin'" (Deluxe Version)

Originally released in 2012 - and executive produced by Large Professor - The Audible Doctor's instrumental project "Doctorin" has been re-released as a Deluxe Version, which now includes 5 brand new unreleased tracks. If you haven't heard the Pre-Med mix of instrumentals that The Audible Doctor put out ahead of this release, I recommend diggin' into that and his Brownies project, which is what caught the eye of the Large Professor in the first place. Soulful chops and hard drums - an enjoyable listen below, so dig in and stay connected on socials for new projects.

The House List Podcast "MF Doom Episode"

The 100th episode of Peter Agoston's House List podcast: "I wanted to do something extra special for the heads on this one - so who better than DOOM. Culled from a handful of conversations recorded onto cassette, MF DOOM and I discuss the then unreleased and to me, unheard, 'MM FOOD' album. This was originally recorded in May 2003 for an expansive cover-story I wrote on DOOM for Elemental Magazine. After listening to these again, there is no doubt in my mind how talented, intuitive and inventive DOOM is. It of course goes without saying, but I do feel like these chats I had with him shed much more light on how he willed some of the best hip-hop music of the last 20 years out of sheer desire to create, if even sometimes under a state of duress. A master collage-artist, poet, author, satirist, DJ, producer, performer. I truly hope this episode (like them all) will serve as a living document to his great accomplishments in music and art. I am appreciative of the time we had recording these and the few musical collaborations we did some 20 years ago now.Thank you to all the listeners as this is fully listener supported." Listen to the interview below...

Pete Rock "Lost Sessions" (Instrumental Album)

Pete Rock’s soul, jazz and funk-sampling beats soundtracked a healthy chunk of East Coast hip-hop during the mid-‘90s—and Lost Sessions rounds up 10 unreleased beats that were reportedly ear-marked for INI, his younger brother Grap Luva’s group. Key picks include the static and piano-powered “Aretha” and the dusky, deep jazz of “Vibes.” Elsewhere, “The Life I Live” nods to a sample source previously mined by A Tribe Called Quest and pairs fittingly with a tribute to that group’s fallen soldier on the nostalgic 'Rest Easy Phife.' Pete Rock is one of our culture's best! 

Grown Man Rap Show "Class of 1993 Reunion Mix"

Hosted by veteran DJ Toast and broadcasted live every Sunday night 10pm-12 midnight (ET) from 91.5 WRPI (Albany NY), Toast brings you 2 hours of the best in vintage & contemporary true school Hip Hop. This is a 2-part series, Episodes 190 & 191: Class of 1993 Reunion - DJ Toast dives in quick with tracks from Super Cat, Poor Righteous Teachers, Jeru The Damaja, Diamond D, Pete Rock & CL Smooth, Fat Joe, Digable Planets, The Beatnuts, Ice Cube, Kurious, Shyheim, Onyx, Trends of Culture, M.O.P., Big Daddy Kane, Wu-Tang Clan, Tha Alkaholiks, De La Soul, Cypress Hill, Dred Scott, Lords of the Underground and so so much more all the way through to the second episode (191) below. All classics, in my eyes!! You don't want to miss this episode, so listen to these Class Of... mixes below!

Asun Eastwood, Daniel Son & Futurewave "Physics of Faith"

Asun Eastwood, Daniel Son and Futurewave, are names that have been bringing quite a buzz to the masses. They’ve taken turns appearing on one another’s solo projects, bringing nothing but premium product. Knowing what they’re capable of, we asked for more, and they supplied. This is their time, it’s just the beginning of a continued wave of success for these talented individuals. Collectively, these 3 bring us Physics of Filth where they take us back down the dark streets of Toronto through detailed lyrical depictions and beats as cold as the hearts of the lost souls who roam the alleys at night. Enjoy this latest offering, and appreciate the blood, sweat and tears they put in to give us an album that’s nothing short of pure quality.  - via Hipnotik1. Dig into this dope LP below...

The Audible Doctor "Soul Slaps, Vol.4" (Beat Tape)

Back again, The Audible Doctor brings us the fourth installment in his Soul Slaps instrumental series. The 12-track project is entirely produced by The Audible Doctor with a touch of vocals from Davenport Grimes. It might be hard to notice, but it appears he put considerable thought into the titles of these instrumentals ... kudos to him lol. This is a series I hope that he continues, and I'm looking forward to a solo album and more music from the Brown Bag All-Stars collective. Dig in...

Benny The Butcher "Tana Talk 3" (Album Stream)

"A continuation of Benny’s Tana Talk series. Tana is short for Montana Ave, the street Benny lived on in the Eastside of Buffalo, NY. This album serves as a platform for Benny to showcase his gritty, yet honest and heartfelt storytelling. The cover is a painting of an old baby photo of his deceased older bother, MachineGun Black (Rest In Peace)." - via Genius. Benny's Tana Talk 3 features Westside Gunn, Meyhem Lauren, Royce Da 5'9, and Conway The Machine. Another bar heavy project! Listen below...

Emapea "Jazzy Tape" (Instrumental Album)

Jazzy Tape is a 17-track instrumental project from Polish producer Emapea. In his own words, these are some "Raw, dirty, rugged and chilled jazzy beats." Indeed. I'm really enjoying this one and look forward to future collaborations, I can hear several artists on beats in this lane or similar. Trippy rhythms that flow from instrumental to instrumental; a really dope vibe throughout. Click play below and look out for more to follow, for sure - including a CD release with additional beats. Also, if you haven't already check it out, listen to Seeds, Roots & Fruits in the archives. Go ahead and dig in...

The House List Podcast "Godfather Don Episode"

Godfather Don is the latest guest on the House List Podcast - hosted by Peter Agoston. "In what marks his first real, long-form interview - Godfather Don is extremely cool, affable and open. And that was mostly talking about music (we hoped and plan to get a more esoteric, next time)! He has been a personal favorite of mine for a long time. A lifetime resident of Brooklyn, we discuss it all. Picking up a guitar as a small child, to making beat-tapes with a guitar pedal. Many where introduced to Don's seminal work on Ultramagnetic MC's 'Four Horsemen' (Wild Pitch 1993) album, others with his actual debut 'Hazardous' (Select 1991). He had a prolific run doing the indie/underground boom between labels Fondle Em and Hydra, which resonates widely to this day (seen in the many limited reissues of his work). Yet all the while, Don has seemingly been shrouded in mystery. Now, Don is a actively performing Tenor Sax player around BK. He's recorded a new Jazz project, I saw him play - he's amazing. It's a fantastic transition into a different musical horizon. I highly suggest watching or listening, when you have the ability." Listen to the full interview below.

Phoniks "Down To Earth Remixes" (Album Stream)

A remixed version of Phoniks' first full-length solo project. Originally 2 years in the works, Phoniks dug through over 250 hours worth of recorded material when piecing together his solo debut. The album was comprised of jazz-tinged lo-fi head nodders with crunchy 12-bit drums, spaced-out filters, and delays + a sprinkling of horn loops and soul vocals. The remixed version of "Down To Earth" utilizes records from Nas, Mood, Outkast, Big L, Biggie, Capone-N-Noreaga, Jadakiss, Wu-Tang Clan and more, to further help bring these instrumentals to life. Stream/Download it below...

Snoop Doggy Dogg "Doggystyle" 25th Anniversary

On November 23, 1993, Snoop Doggy Dogg delivered his classic debut album "Doggystyle." From "Deep Cover" to his co-starring (stand-out) role on Dr. Dre's "The Chronic," it was clear Snoop was an instant star! With all the hype, Snoop delivered with a grip of classic singles, dope interludes and a cohesive project. From the visuals to the storyline, it was curated flawlessly. The wave of Dre & Snoop hit the East Coast hard and lots of artists incorporated the sound into their releases. Take Biggie, for example, Puff had him do a promo tape aimed at fans on the West Coast ahead of "Ready to Die." It didn't stop there, of course, just check Dre's production credits for more obvious signs of their impact. I am not gonna touch on the East vs. West beef that was fueled by Puff & Suge + the media, so let's fast forward to DJ Filthy Rich, who dropped a 25th Anniversary mix to commemorate the release with album cuts, remixes, unreleased tracks & some raw blends. Dope shout-out to my homie, @ToonCrew, who blessed DJ Filthy Rich with the artwork for this fine mix.