Brand New And Heavy

I've never really known how many people own, or are into, one of my favourite albums of all time. It certainly isn't something you hear out and about a great deal, nor tend to see in people's collections. I don't even know whether to describe it as an album, or a mix-tape, or a compilation. Heavy Rhyme Experience Volume 1 is a hip-hop concept album from 1992, featuring British retro funksters the Brand New Heavies on live instrumental backing, and the cream of that age's rap and dancehall on vocals, released through Delicious Vinyl. It only consists of ten songs, but these ten songs are arguably some of the finest cuts from one of rap's true golden ages, and the line-up is just sick: Main Source, Gangstarr, Grand Puba, Masta Ace, Jamal-ski, Kool G Rap, Black Sheep, Ed O.G, Tiger, and last, but certainly not least, the first vinyl cut from the mighty Pharcyde (this live version of Soul Flower preceded Bizarre Ride's release by a few months, and is simply stunning). What is best about this album is that it is a concept that has been executed perfectly, with skills and integrity all round. In a genre that has always been dominated by samples, this collection stands out a mile. If you can find it, check it out and I promise you won't be disappointed.