De La Soul – Stakes Is High (Vinyl 2LP)

1996’s Stakes is High served as Da La Soul’s fourth studio effort overall and the first sans Prince Paul. The album was critically lauded for its music, lyricism, and it’s overall message concerning the artistic decline rap music began to face in the mid-90s. The title track and lead single was produced by J Dilla and the album’s second single, “Itzsoweezee (Hot)”, with only Dave Jolicoeur on vocals, was accompanied by a creative music video. The album spawned a third single “4 More”, featuring Zhane. Stakes Is High also provided a launching pad for future star rappers Mos Def, who appeared on the track “Big Brother Beat” and Common who is featured on “The Bizness.”