Def Jam US Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Rapsody's fourth studio album, Please Don't Cry, displays her evolution as an artist unafraid to explore new territories. Drawing on lifelong influences, Rapsody creates a unique sonic experience that reignites public interest in forward-thinking hip-hop. With tracks like 'Asteroids,' she demonstrates her ability to blend pointed songwriting with innovative stylistics. This tightly wrapped album delves into Rapsody's past, empowering her future through vulnerability and self-awareness. 'Stand Tall' sets the tone for Rapsody's album with its powerful statement and crisp bars. Moderated by Sanaa Lathan, the track showcases Rapsody's phenomenal technical abilities and introduces overarching lyrical and musical themes that resonate throughout the album. With her technical dexterity and storytelling abilities, Please Don't Cry cements Rapsody's status as one of the best in the game.

Review: American great Redman is about as decorated as hip-hop wordsmiths come and that legacy was assured almost from the moment he sealed his debut album, Whut? Thee Album in September 1992. It mixes up East Coast, hardcore and psychedelic rap styles with production taken care of by Pete Rock, Parrish Smith and Erick sermon. Now considered a classic and one of Redman's best albums, it features plenty of humorous lyrics and funky production with booming drums undermining each of the cuts. Vocally, Reedman does it all from lover to fighter and back again. It all makes for a party record with a difference.

Review: This has been a year of celebration for hip-hop with artists, labels and festivals all marking the still standout genre's 50th anniversary. As part of that, Def Jam has put together this Hip Hop's 50th Anniversary Edition of Young Jeezy's Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101 album on limited and gatefold triple fruit punch vinyl. It was originally released in 2005 by indie label Corporate Thugz and marked a fine commercial debut for the artists who'd already put out two mixtapes at that point. IA raw and hard hitting mix of gangsta and southern rap and trap, it's a high watermark for those styles, with singles like 'Soul Survivor' and 'My Hood' performing well.