The Notorious B.I.G. "Ready To Die" (30th Anniv. Mix by DJ Filthy Rich)

Shout-out to the homie, DJ Filthy Rich out of Toronto, who continues to bless us with these fine tribute mixes. The latest installment pays tribute to the late Notorious B.I.G. and his classic debut album, Ready To Die, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Some albums just mark the time and I can remember so vividly sitting with this album in McClancy High School out in Queens, NY. Updated from his 25th anniversary mix, this is Volume 1 of the 30th with original samples and classic cuts from 1994. Rest In Peace, Notorious B.I.G. and DJ Mister Cee.  Unfortunately, due to copyright restrictions a small piece of the mix has been muted, but rock with it anyway y'all. Dig in...

Blu "Soul Amazing" (Part 13, Mix)

The official Soul Amazing mixtape series from Blu continues with its 13th installment. Mixed by Pryvet Peepsho, the mix features guest verses from Blu on tracks with Ray West, James Aris, Corta, Tomcat, Conny Franko, 60 East, Cashus King, Nappyhigh, Charles Hamilton, Real Bad Man, Sekwence, Strange Dust, Big Tone, Kapsoul, Elzhi & Oh No, and so many more, totaling 45 tracks. One of the most prolific lyricists, Blu continues to turn out EPs, LPs and countless feature verses. It's no surprise he's one of my favorite lyricists since his '07 release of Below The Heavens with Exile. Dig into the archives for the back catalog and check out Soul Amazing Pt 13 streaming below...

Lloyd Banks "Halloween Havoc 5" (Album Stream)

Lloyd Banks is back with a brand-new installment of his classic Halloween Havoc series. Halloween Havoc 5 was released via Money By Any Means Inc and features 16 hard-hitting joints. The production is consistent throughout despite being handled my multiple producers such as Ron Browz, Cartune Beatz, Arkatekt Beats, Mr. Authentic, Haas Almahdi, George Getson, Formula2beatz and more. On Instagram, Banks shared, "You already know what I do around this time of year!! And nothing's gonna change... HHV loading!!" Yes, indeed. I haven't covered all the installments on this site, but best believe I was tapped into each and every one of them over the years. I still run the joint "History" (and "History 2" for that matter) on repeat. Whether introspective lyrics or the PLK Banks, he's one of the premier artists whose lyrics and pen I truly respect. Happy Halloween! Listen below...

Troubleneck Brothers "Love/Hate" (Album Release)

Love/Hate combines several demo tracks from the Troubleneck Brothers' early-to-mid 90's tapes including instant classics such as "Back 2 The Hip Hop". Hailing from New York's Harlem and Uptown, the crew consisting of Soundwave, Moetown, Prophet, Blunt, Stepchild, Shaft and Nat 1 created some heavy buzz on the underground scene with their classic East Coast sound. Man, "Troubleneck Wreck" was one of my favorite pieces of vinyl back in the 90s. This release includes a demo version of that track and many others. Their early joints were released on StepSun Music Entertainment, whose parent label was Tommy Boy Records. Bill Stephney had a real ear for music. It's nice to see these rare demo joints unearthed from the Troubleneck Brothers, listen to it via 90s Tapes below...

Rest In Peace, DJ Clark Kent (Sept. 28, 1966 - Oct. 24, 2024)

DJ Clark Kent — born Rodolfo Franklin — has died at 58 years old following a three-year battle with colon cancer. Clark Kent’s family confirmed his death in a statement posted to the super-producer’s Instagram page on Friday afternoon (Oct. 25). “It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent,” the statement reads. “Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio.” The post continued to touch on Clark Kent’s private battle with cancer. “Clark quietly and valiantly fought a three year battle with Colon Cancer, while continuing to share his gifts with the world,” they added. “The family is grateful for everyone’s love, support and prayers during this time and ask for privacy as they process this immense loss.” - Billboard. A nostalgia site like this one couldn't exist without the cultural impact and legacy of artists like Clark Kent. Deepest condolences to his family and all his loved ones. Rest In Peace to God’s Favorite DJ. 

Kurious "Majician" (Album Stream)

By his early 20s, Kurious was already an in-demand voice on the mic. His 1994 major label debut album, A Constipated Monkey, is a classic of its style, marked by heavy beats and nimble rhymes that are razor-sharp yet frequently hilarious. Despite being hailed as one of hip-hop’s most compelling lyricists, he didn’t release another solo LP for the rest of that decade, but he continued to be sought after. As he prepares for the release of his new album, Majician -- the nickname his peers blessed him with a generation ago—Kurious is well on his way to establishing the legacy he’s long deserved. The LP, which was executive produced by MF DOOM before his passing, is a mesmerizing blend of technical wizardry and personal introspection. Produced in its entirety by Mono En Stereo, Majician is filled with songs like “Eye of Horus,” which dance on the line between confession and confrontation. “Separation Anxiety” is a personal bloodletting in the form of lyrical exercise; “Par For the Course” makes drum breaks from the early Reagan era sound totally revitalized. With the amount of hard work Kurious put into the writing and recording of this material, he’s removed all ambiguity from the question of whether he can stand as one of the premier MCs of his time. Listen to Majician from Kurious below and hit the tags for more posts...

Shad & 14KT "Reel Speakers" (EP Stream)

The good homies: Toronto rapper Shad and Michigan based producer 14KT have surprised everyone by dropping a brand-new EP showcasing their recent collaboration. Reel Speakers, a four-track EP stemming from freestyles Shad did on socials, is a compact, high-energy listening with beat, grit, soul, and hope. The pair met at DJ Jazzy Jeff’s iconic Playlist Retreat years prior and connected over freestyles Shad was doing on Instagram to celebrate Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary. 14KT started crafting a beat for one of the freestyles online, and the project eventually took shape and birthed Reel Speakers. BIG fan of both artists, this is an excellent collaboration, dig into the stream below...

Blu & Exile "Love (the) Ominous World" (Album Stream)

With the release of Love (the) Ominous World, Blu & Exile have returned with an album that brilliantly builds on their soulful, reflective foundation with stunning musicality and sharp songwriting. Their shared history as one of hip-hop’s best duos continues to grow, especially as they venture into new territory while embracing and refining what made them special. Man... Blu & Exile continue to inspire and keep me excited for music. Remember when a new album was an instant-purchase and you waited eagerly for it to drop? A Tribe Called Quest, Pete Rock & CL Smooth, Lords of the Underground ... I couldn't wait. Blu & Exile give me that same feeling and they did NOT disappoint with their latest offering, Love (the) Ominous World. Definitely give the album a full listen below, as well as catching them on tour in your city. Gotta cop the physical releases too!

MC Lyte "1 of 1" (Album Stream)

1 of 1 is the brand new album from Brooklyn icon, MC Lyte. The album boasts 17 tracks featuring artists such as Queen Latifah, Ghostface Killah, Stevie Wonder, Common, Big Daddy Kane, Raheem DeVaughn, Q-Tip and more. The stellar production is handled by Easy Moe Bee, Nottz, DJ Skratch, The King of Chill, the homie Koncept and other talented producers. It's been almost a decade since her last full-length release, Legend, but MC Lyte is back with a really solid, inspiring effort in 1 of 1. Lyte released the album she truly wanted to make and you can hear it on every track. I've had the pleasure of connecting with MC Lyte over the years and her support for my artist Eternia was felt and appreciated on multiple occasions - from shows in Brooklyn to brief interviews and words of advice. A true legend in this space, so it's great to have new music to continue the legacy. Listen...

LL Cool J "The Force" (Album Stream)

Queens Hip-Hop legend LL Cool J returns with The FORCE, his first new album in more than a decade. Produced in its entirety by A Tribe Called Quest’s Q-Tip, The FORCE (an acronym for Frequencies Of Real Creative Energy) represents years of intense work. The result is an album that sounds thoroughly modern – full of razor-sharp writing and nimble, elastic vocals – but rooted in a rich tradition. Our legends are locking in and reminding us that they shouldn't be written off and that can still create. Is it a question of relevancy or love for the craft? I believe it's a genuine love for the music, because Rakim, LL, MC Lyte, and others have all released quality music as of late. We are seeing our legends and peers pass away at early ages, there is no time better than the present to give these artists their flowers and hear the music that they want to create. Dig in...

Diamond D "The Diam Piece III: Initium" (Album Stream)

Diamond D is back with the 3rd installment of his Diam Piece series, The Diam Piece 3: Initium. According to Fat Beats Records, Vol. 3 will be broken down into 3 separate parts with Initium being the 1st of 3. With Diamond D on the production, Initium  boasts features from KRS-One, RJ Payne, Skyzoo, Torae, Bishop Lamont, Sauce Money, Lord Tariq, Fat Man Scoop, Royal Flush, Agallah, David Bars, Inspectah Deck, Shyheim, 38 Spesh, E-A-Ski and Bonecrusher. These projects have been consistently dope, so I expect no less from this latest offering. To me, Diamond D's Stunts, Blunts & Hip-Hop might still be the greatest solo release out the Diggin In The Crates catalog. It's in the top 5 anyway. Am I wrong? One of you is gonna e-mail and debate me on that, but I've got time. Dig in...

Awon & Phoniks "Golden Era 2" (Album Stream)

Awon & Phoniks make a triumphant return with "Golden Era 2," the long-awaited follow-up to their acclaimed debut, "Return to the Golden Era." The growth of the duo is evident in this new release, featuring Phoniks' thoughtful jazz-infused boom bap production and Awon's introspective lyrics. Together, the co-founders of Don't Sleep Records not only reflect on the past but also offer a vision for the future of underground hip hop. This album captures the nostalgic vibe of a classic era, reminiscent of the excitement when your favorite group drops a new record, with the stamp of quality you've come to expect from Don't Sleep. Featuring contributions from Anti-Lilly, Tiff the Gift, Dephlow, Hex One, V Knuckles, Demetrius Rhymes, PEL, and John Robinson, "Golden Era 2" is available on CD, cassette and limited-edition vinyl. These guys do it RIGHT, every time. Listen below...

Rakim "G.O.D.’S NETWORK (REB7RTH)" (Album Stream)

Hip-hop legend Rakim is breaking new ground with his upcoming studio album, G.O.D.’S NETWORK (REB7RTH), by flexing his skills both on the mic and behind the boards. Widely lauded as the best lyricist of all time, The God MC himself is blessing the culture with the next step in his historic career. G.O.D.’S NETWORK (REB7RTH) is proof that Rakim is truly one of the most special artists we’ve known not just in hip-hop, but all of music. You can tell he feels that level of praise when speaking about the genesis of the album. “Having the ability to showcase my talents behind the boards coupled with the elite lyricism the world already knows and gives me infinite praise for alongside some of the best talents to ever do it is truly a blessing and for that I am humbled,” he said. For fans of hip-hop, and especially of Rakim’s storied discography, there is so much to love on this record. You can hear his hunger as an emcee and producer on every track, as well as his desire to collaborate with so many respected artists. Despite having decades in the game and many classics to his name, it feels like Rakim is just getting started. - via Rakim Presents. Listen below...

Common & Pete Rock "The Auditorium, Vol.1" (Album Stream)

Pete Rock and Common finally got together to craft an album in 2024... a possible dream collaboration! The Auditorium, Vol. 1 is everything you thought it would be: dope lyrics and crisp production. About the album, Common shared, "Pete Rock is one of The Greatest Creators Hip Hop and Music has ever seen. It has been a dream of mine to work with him on an album. And once we got together and I was around him and all his records and his MPC I felt the spirit of what I always loved in hip hop, in soul music, and why I wanted to be a part of the artform. His beats, his production, his scratches, took me to a place where I could just MC freely. It felt like I was home." Back in 1996, Common got with Pete Rock who produced his classic diss track to Ice Cube, "The Bitch In Yoo." Common was also featured on Pete's Soul Survivor album in '98. Stream the LP below...

Action Bronson "Johann Sebastian Bachlava the Doctor" (Album Stream)

Queens rapper Action Bronson may not be classically trained, but on his 2024 album, Johann Sebastian Bachlava the Doctor, he takes inspiration from Bacj and treats each song like he's got an entire orchestra at his disposal. With production from Daringer and The Alchemist, Bronson creates a sonic palette maximal in spirit and substance. Psychedelic samples dance with booming drums, triumphant horns introduce Bronson's voice like he's a king entering his court. Everything is turned up to 11, and Bronson relishes the opportunity to flex with abandon.... This rap at its most luxurious.

Blu & Evidence "Los Angeles" (Album Stream)

Los Angeles is thew new album from Blu, entirely produced by Evidence of Dilated Peoples. The 13-track LP has guest features from MED, Domo Genesis, Navy Blue, Self Jupier, Cashus King, Kokane, CS Armstrong, Evidence and more. Kind of a surprise album - to me anyway - seeing how there was some interesting history between the two of them dating back to Blu's twitter rant several years back. Are we not supposed to mention that? Either way... glad that they peace'd that up and moved forward creatively to craft this fine project. Ev and Blu are two of my favorite artists - this is a nice marriage of their artistry. I don't suspect there will be much promotion or touring behind it, but I'm thankful they linked to bring us this fine offering. Check out the Los Angeles LP below...

Da Beatminerz "Stifled Creativity" (Album Stream)

Da Beatminerz defined the dark, gritty sound of underground Hip-Hop in the '90s. Formed in 1992 by brothers Walter “Mr. Walt” and Ewart “DJ Evil Dee” Dewgarde, the production duo pioneered Hip-Hop's brooding vibes, a tonal shift that came with the release of Black Moon's classic debut album Enta Da Stage. As producers of the seminal 1993 project in its entirety, Da Beatminerz set a precedent for hardcore Hip-Hop. Their sample-heavy, gutter tracks laced with heavy basslines, and hard kicks and snares helped reshape the music genre. Da Beatminerz continued to refine their distinct sound and identity with countless classic records for other artists and two albums of their own (2001’s Brace 4 Impak and 2004’s Fully Loaded w/ Statik) over the course of their illustrious 30-year career. Stifled Creativity is the duo’s first full-length album in 20 years. “We started working on this album in 2009... We had one focus and the focus was to stick to our core sound. We just wanted to bring back our traditional way of attempting a classic album. Everybody has their own type of hip hop that they love. Well, this is ours.” - Mr. Walt. Stream their new album below...

Maticulous "The Expanse" (Album Stream)

Brooklyn-based producer maticulous returns with his latest project, The Expanse, which is an exploration of time and space, both musically and personally. The record veers from the usual producer-album approach by shying away from the feature-heavy norm, focusing instead on one artist per song to develop a complete story on each track. “The inspiration for The Expanse flows from a long stretch of being stagnant, which renders the tracks with a variety of new sounds and ideas,” maticulous says. From the incomparable eLZhi’s tragic tale on “Two Kids” to the jarring, jaded truth of Rasheed Chappell’s “Bitter Pill” to The Audible Doctor’s “Butterfly Effect,” which closes the album with optimism and reflection, The Expanse once again proves that maticulous is among the elite in the world of modern hip hop producers. Props to fellow Fat Beats alumni! Listen to it below...

CRIMEAPPLE & Big Ghost Ltd "Bazuko" (Album Stream)

When CRIMEAPPLE and Big Ghost Ltd first linked up on their "Aguardiente" collaboration in 2016, the two came to shake the game up. The iconic Antioqueño bottle left a mark in underground hip-hop that still stands strong to this day, and to follow up they cooked up the deadliest material to do that once again with "Bazuko". Named after the deadliest and most addictive street drug in Colombia, basuco, the album embodies the raw, uncut and unfiltered essence of their artistic process, much like the gritty remnants of cocaine paste. CRIMEAPPLE's razor-sharp lyricism cuts through Big Ghost Ltd's masterful, hard-hitting beats, creating a visceral, addictive and immersive soundscape. With "Bazuko," the two aren't just following up on "Aguardiente"; they're raising the stakes, delivering a project that is as potent and unforgettable as its namesake. Listen to it below...

Supastition "All That Was Left Unsaid" (Album Stream)

This is the second part of a 2-part series which included last year’s ‘Every Last Word.’ This project, ‘All That Was Left Unsaid,’ dives deep into reflection and gratitude. In Supastition's own words,  "It's a nod to the struggles I've faced, the losses I’ve mourned, and the victories I've celebrated. After two decades in the game, I'm understanding (and accepting) my place in music and history. It's a humbling realization, but one I'm honored to embrace. And to all my fans who've stuck with me through thick and thin, your support means the world. This time around, I’ve enlisted the talents of some guest artists including Shad, Silvandgold, and E.Smitty. Production was handled by yours truly along with Praise (Speaker Bullies), The Mighty DR, and Max Zipursky." I'm proud of my brother for his authenticity and his consistency throughout the years. Supa has an incredible catalog that I highly encourage you to tap into (if you haven't already). Meanwhile, listen to the new album below...

Copywrite "T.H.E. Last Supper" (Album Stream)

Underground Hip Hop veteran and esteemed lyricist, Copywrite enlists indie golden age emcees and producers from his early Rawkus, Eastern Conference and Fondle 'Em Records days with his seventh studio album, "The Last Supper". The album boasts thirteen tracks bringing back that early 2000's Weathermen feel. DJ Mighty Mi and Cop link back up for a few songs that are guaranteed to tide heads over until their joint EP drops later this year. The Juggaknot's resident monster, Breeze Brewin also shows up alongside underground champion Bobbito Garcia over a banger by Swab who handles a good portion of the albums tracks and the outcome is pure 89-tek-9 nostalgia reminiscent of the WKCR hey days. The always honest and lyrical depth of Atmosphere's Slug compliments Copy's tales of lost ones and pain over the years on "Turn the Page". This is Copy's best work if you ask me. The songs are all super dense and packed with effortless detail that all require several listens to fully digest. Twenty years of being one of independent rap's elite shines on Pete Nelson's magnum opus, "T.H.E. Last Supper". Listen to Copywrite's T.H.E. Last Supper below...

Black Rob "Life Story 2" (Album Stream)

Life Story 2 is a posthumous album from former Bad Boy recording artist, Black Rob, who passed away on April 17, 2021 (he died of cardiac arrest at age 52). Executive produced and spearheaded by D. Dot, Life Story 2 includes features from Kid Capri, Sway, Faith Evans, Smoke DZA, G. Dep, Kali Ranks, Joell Ortiz, Grandmaster Caz and of course, D. Dot as The Mad Rapper. Production is handled by Hitmen producers Nashiem, Carlos Broady, Yogi (Cru) and D-Dot, as well as Buckwild and more. With several interludes, the album boasts an ambitious 31 flavorful tracks and may represent the entirety of his vaulted music. His debut album is still a gem with several classic records that I revisit to this day. I recommend checking out this new nostalgic gem at your earliest convenience...

Cypress Hill "Black Sunday" (30the Anniversary Mix by Filthy Rich)

DJ Filthy Rich celebrates 30 years of Cypress Hill's classic sophomore LP 'Black Sunday' with a mix of original samples, remixes, b-sides and original blends. I remember coppin' the 12 of "Insane In The Brain" with the b-side, "When The Shit Goes Down" and knowing the follow-up LP was gonna be a smash. The album cuts were just as hard and while the content wasn't always "my bag", I appreciate the artistry and especially the production by DJ Muggs. You can definitely understand why it crossed over and made such an impact in the rock and hip-hop communities. The 30th anniversary Expanded Edition of Black Sunday includes a remix from Statik Selektah, DJ Muggs and more if you haven't had a chance to cop that release. Meanwhile, dig into the mix from DJ Filthy Rich below...

Brother Ali & unJust "Love & Service" (Album Stream)

Love & Service is an analog album and animated film by Ali "Brother Ali" Newman and Justin “unJUST” Herman. Evoking the sound and spirit of 1970’s educational cartoons, this project is a musing for modern adults seeking wholeness in community. Brother Ali and unJUST, strangers who were fans of each others' work, connected through a series of voice notes and quickly built a friendship rooted in healing via music-making. They began collaborating on songs from opposite sides of the globe. Justin created musical beds on his Ensoniq ASR-10, a thirty-year-old analog sampling keyboard. Cut off from record stores (the lifeblood of every hip hop producer), he turned to a stash of children's educational films on 16mm and VHS looking for his inspiration. Ali recorded vocals from his new Turkish neighborhood of Uskudar. The music they were writing asked the questions hanging over them both. In an internet age, how do we learn to communicate from a place of love? How do we settle grievances and address harms without replicating the oppressive structures we're fighting to dismantle? How do we push past generations of trauma and create cultures of healing? In the "Love & Service" film, eight songs from this duo are elevated and amplified through vivid and at times surreal imagery. Each song features a unique style of animation meant to harken back to the days of pen scribblings and charcoal drawings. These are not the slick, hyper-realistic computer graphics that define most modern animation. This is textured, choppy art with fingerprints and smudges. "Love & Service" packs a lot into 13 tracks. It's a spectacle without any gloss. It's beautiful but asks uncomfortable questions. It incorporates a multitude of styles, but feels cohesive and organic. And while it explores the myriad ways that humans are failing one another, it lands with the affirmation that we're all worthy of love. Listen to Love & Service streaming below...

Apathy "Connecticut Casual: Chapter 2" (Album Stream)

Seasoned MC and producer, Apathy, delivers his 9th full length album as an integral piece of his impressive 25+ year career. Back in 2014, he blessed hip hop heads with "Connecticut Casual", one of his most personal and fan-favorite outings to date. Once again heavily inspired by his hometown surroundings and shore-life encounters, Ap brings to fruition the next chapter in the soundtrack to the New England way of life with this new-age sequel to the original "CT Casual". The majority of the project is painstakingly produced by newcomer beatsmith, Playa Haze, with additional production from Apathy himself, along with contributions from Alcapella, plus Little Vic on both the boards and the mic. Ap's longtime partner-in-rhyme, Celph Titled, appears as one of the few guest features blessing the LP. Sail along this ride through murky waters, mysterious folklore, brash talk, and experience the East Coast lifestyle through the eyes of a Demigod. Dig into the LP below...

Rapsody "Please Don't Cry" (Album Stream)

Rapsody is ready to embrace the unknown. On her fourth studio album, Please Don't Cry, the North Carolina rapper weaves together disparate experiences to create a truly unique and unforgettable sonic gem. It's the mark of an artist who is unafraid to draw on lifelong influences to find their true voice. Her 2023 single, "Asteroids," reignited the public's demand for forward-thinking stylistics and pointed songwriting. Her discography spans over a decade and has made a lasting impact on hip hop culture, avid music listeners, fans and critics alike. Rapsody is preparing to pull back the curtain on who Marlanna Evans is. The tightly wrapped album is a more self-aware version of Rapsody as she reconciles with the past to empower her future. It explores the depth of her technical dexterity with more vulnerability than prior releases. It's a record that sets her apart from the rest, cementing Rap's status as one of the best storytellers of all time. - Amazon Music. Listen below...

Gang Starr "Hard To Earn" (30th Anniv. Mix by DJ Filthy Rich)

Back once again, Toronto's DJ Filthy Rich drops his latest offering; a tribute to my favorite group of all-time, Gang Starr and their classic effort, Hard To Earn. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the mix features a revamped version of his 25th anniversary mix from 2019 (which got taken down) with original blends, samples, b-sides and unreleased tracks. Rest in Peace to Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal and, of course, we continue to represent for the greatest producer of all-time, DJ Premier. Dig into another phenomenal mix by DJ Filthy Rich below and hit the archives for more...

Donnie Propa "For Promotional Use Only" (Mixtape)

Some fresh nostalgia for you from the UK homie, Donnie Propa. He shares, "Anyone who knows anything about the history of hip hop mixtapes knows just how big Tape Kingz were in the 90s, releasing an unbelievable amount of classic mixtapes by some of New York’s finest DJs as well as loads of incredible records. Being based in Brooklyn in the early 90s they sold mixtapes worldwide with distribution in Japan and Germany. It’s been many many years since they have put out a tape and I am beyond proud and grateful to be the first one to drop since back then! The A side is classic 90s underground material with the B side being newer artists and recent releases. Both sides feature records dropped through Tape Kingz. 45 mins each side, 100% vinyl..." Listen below...

Blu & Roy Royal "Royal Blue" (EP Stream)

Introducing "Royal Blu," the highly-anticipated collaborative EP by Blu and producer Roy Royal. Bursting onto the scene with undeniable chemistry, the dynamic duo from the heart of California delivers an electrifying fusion of boom-bap beats and soulful samples that redefine the essence of West Coast hip-hop. From the moment you hit play, "Royal Blu" captivates with standout tracks like 'The Same OG', 'LA Blue', and the mesmerizing 'The Priceless' featuring Cashus King. Each song showcases Blu's unparalleled lyricism and Roy Royal's masterful production, creating an immersive journey through LA and beyond. Following Blu's acclaimed projects in 2023, including the collaborations with Real Bad Man and Nottz, "Royal Blu" marks a triumphant return to his roots, solidifying his status as one of the West Coast's finest MCs. With Roy Royal's soulful chops and Blu's unwavering conviction, every track feels like a passionate ode to their beloved city. Listen below...

Awon & Parental "Sublime" (Album Stream)

A new MC/producer duo is on the rise, please welcome the collaborative effort "Sublime" by Awon (MC) and Parental (producer from Paris, France). The smooth but mind-blowing lyrics by Awon paired with Parental's Jazz-infected beats make their debut album another sureshot for all Jazzmatazz heads. The project consists of 13 tracks in total plus all instrumentals and the features include fan-favorite Anti-Lilly, Pete Flux, Tiff The Gift, Fresh Daily, Debonair P, Alcynoos, Saï T & Dan Amozig. Much love to the homie Awon and the whole Don't Sleep Records camp. Listen to Sublime below...

Masta Ace & Marco Polo "Richmond Hill" (Album Stream)

Richmond Hill, the highly anticipated follow up to Masta Ace and Marco Polo's Breukelen Story, is inspired by Marco's childhood in the titular neighborhood, a small town in Ontario, just outside of Toronto. Between interstitials about Marco's passion for hip-hop and cartoons, his struggle with addiction, and the support of his parents, Marco Polo and Masta Ace tackle the issues of the day head-on with clarity, the rapper using his decades-worth of rapping experience to slice through the producer's warm soul samples and crisp percussion. A cinematic journey that explores how the past echoes through the present, the album welcomes guest appearances from notable names from all eras of rap history, including Inspectah Deck, Coast Contra, Blu, Che Noir, Speech of Arrested Development, Masta Ace's longtime collaborators Stricklin and Wordsworth, and many more. The joint 'Below The Clouds' with Blu is an absolute BANGER! Listen to their new album Richmond Hill below...

Mista Sinista "ReBorn" (Album Stream)

Mista Sinista officially started DJing in 1986 and joined the X-Men in 1992. They later became the X-ecutioners and released two albums. Mista Sinista toured the world several times with the X-ecutioners and was a tour DJ for Common, Beatnuts, Joe Fatal and Lauryn Hill just to name a few. Some of his album credits include The Beatnuts Street Level LP and Common’s Resurrection LP. His work was also highlighted on Fat Joe’s sophomore release, Jealous One’s Envy. He continues to perform worldwide and is featured on The Rewind with DJ Safire which airs weekly on Beatminerz Radio. Mista Sinista’s debut LP is a mix of well-produced tracks along with live turntablism. The project features emcees Mr. VooDoo, Ill Bill, Vinnie Paz, The One Chadio, U.G. & The former MC Jean Grae to name a few. This album also features Rugged One, Q-Bert, The Cut Lieutenant, Ace & Rob Swift. Production credits on the project include Mista Sinista, Steve Dee, Nick Wiz, Statick, Eitan Noyze, Cee da Cuban & DJ Safire. Listen to Mista Sinista's ReBorn streaming below via Fat Beats...

J.Period "Revisionist History" (Mixtape)

J.Period presents Revisionist History [Hip Hop 50: Remixed], a collection of 50 exclusive J.PERIOD remixes paying tribute to iconic MCs - including Nas, Rakim, Black Thought, Busta Rhymes, Q-Tip, Ms. Lauryn Hill, 2Pac and more - remixed and re-imagined over 50 classic beats from legendary producers including DJ Premier, Jay Dilla, Pete Rock, Mobb Deep, Dr. Dre, A Tribe Called Quest and more! Recorded LIVE in Brooklyn and originally aired on Rock The Bells Radio. Revisionist History arrives in tandem with the release of Dan Lish’s new book, “Ego Strip: Book 1,” which features original illustrations of Hip Hop icons including Kool Herc, Questlove, KRS-One, Queen Latifah, De La Soul and more. Imagining our Hip Hop heroes as characters in otherworldly fantasies, Dan Lish drawings capture the essence of Hip Hop creativity in visual form and have made for perfect the visual accompaniment for J.Period’s Live Mixtapes in recent years. Listen to this fine mixtape below...