Jason Harris

Its arguably one of the top 20 albums in HIp HIp History. Its certainly in the top 20 for the so called 'new school' of hip hop. Mos Def displays a staggering range of lyrical styles and an ability to construct story raps ("Ms. Fat Booty" and "Brooklyn"), political bars ("New World Water, Rock N Roll") and just straight lyrics...The beats are boom bap but in every conceivable flavor. This is basically the end of the Native Tongue era...and while Mos was not an official member, he was there for Stakes is High, and the influence of De La and Tribe definitely show in this....but its stands on its own. This is a basic building block for anyone who wants to dive into hip hop. If you just want to listen for beats, it will meet you there...if you want more, this is a deep dive in culture, politics and art at a level few have reached in hip hop.