10 Most Underrated Hip-Hop Albums Of All Time

The second solo release by endlessly inventive producer Prince Paul isn’t exactly an unknown quantity, but the fact it’s not frequently appearing near the top of Best Ever lists is a scandal. Packed with unforgettable characters and tracks, it could be the finest concept album ever created, a risky proposition that pays off wonderfully.

The record tells the story of Tariq, a young MC looking to catch a break. Needing money for studio time, he follows his friend True into drug dealing, but when he quickly demonstrates a gift for the hustle, True’s jealousy gets the better of him.

The album’s world is populated by legendary rappers portraying colourful players - Kool Keith as an arms dealer, Big Daddy Kane as a pimp - but special props must go to Breezly Brewin in the main role. He raps on all kinds of beats in a winning performance, holding Prince Paul’s narrative together. The individual tracks are all fantastic, but it’s an album meant to be consumed in one go for full effect.

For an added bonus, try listening to it while playing Tony Hawk’s Underground - it’s essentially the same story.