Classic Material: The Hip-Hop Album Guide »

This rich, diverse, and intelligent collection of hip-hop and rap album reviews includes pieces from some of the country's most talented critics on hip-hop music, drawing on a range of expertise from writers at such magazines as Spin, Rolling Stone, The Source, and Vibe. With over 40 entries covering more than 60 classic albums, it disproves the idea that there is a dearth of intelligent commentary and criticism on rap music. Essays and reviews include observations on the music and meaning of the Beastie Boys, Cypress Hill, Eminem, Ice-T, Public Enemy, and Run DMC. Tupac's legacy, Jay-Z's pop allure, and Pharcyde's black masculinity issues are also explored.

Author Biography: Oliver Wang has contributed to Vibe, The Source, L.A. Weekly, San Francisco Bay Guardian, Village Voice, and Spin. He hosts a weekly radio show in Berkeley, California, and DJs regularly in San Francisco clubs. He lives in Oakland, California. Dante Ross, longtime A&R rep for Tommy Boy Records, was responsible for signing De La Soul and Queen Latifah. He lives in New York City.