10 Perfect Music Albums That Defined The 90s
2. A Tribe Called Quest: The Low End Theory (1991)
Tribe Called Quest were part of an alternative group of New York artist striving to evolve hip hop into more expansive realms. Groups like Jungle Brothers and Da La Soul made up this collective, contributing to the blueprint for a more abstract form of jazz-influenced, alternative hip hop. Tribe picked up the blueprint and ran with it, flipping hip hop on its head.
The group's second album is one of the most important records in the evolution of the genre, with revolutionary flow and production techniques. The vibe has a distinctly reserved, a cool confidence. It was a smoother, more refined approach to hip hop, setting Tribe aside from the gangsta and hardcore rap artists making headways on either coast.
The record was filled with lyrics, that were conscious, humours and clever, but the album's great moment came with the closing track Scenario. It's regarded as the greatest posse track of all time, featuring Busta Ryhmes, Dinco D and Charlie Brown, all of who contribute to the flow. With drums samples from the Jimi Hendrix Experience, and ominous organ samples from Brother Jack McDuff, it's one of the most recognised and infectious intros to a rap track. Although Dinco D and Phife Dawg, both had bars, filled with wit and clever wordplay, it was Busta Rhymes who stole the show. His explosive and unconventional delivery of organised chaos on this track, is still unmatched.