Also noteworthy is the production of Illmatic. The record is simplistically produced, which gives Nas’ lyrics a hard place to fall. This is the sound of the streets, often quite plainly, and the production fits the bill on each track with resolute devotion. The beats are severe and the scratches are never invasive. Sampling is done in moderation.
It should also be noted that Illmatic was one of the first hip-hop albums to feature such an all-star cast of producers, representing a trend that is going strong to almost-excessive lengths today.
With on-point production and stellar lyricism, it’s hard to find a better album than Illmatic. Nas’ sturdy and careless delivery smoulders all over the record, taking over classic tracks like “N.Y. State of Mind” and “Halftime” with his persistent level-headedness and lethal attention to detail.
1994 was a big year for hip-hop on the East Coast. Biggie’s classic debut Ready to Die was also dropped and the East Coast sound started to challenge the G-funk on the West Coast. It was a compelling time, to say the least, but Illmatic still stands strong as one of the greatest of that era and as one of the greatest albums of all time.
Article comments
1 - Gaf
Why do I have to be constantly bombarded by horrible music made by jungle bunnies who have to play "the card" and remind everyone how bad they've got it???