The story of Hieroglyphics Imperium, West Coast hip-hop history, and the Oakland music scene

Del tha Funkee Homosapien — Both Sides of the Brain (2000): The Transition Album

Del tha Funkee Homosapien's Both Sides of the Brain (2000) was released the same year as Deltron 3030, but this overlooked solo record stands on its own as a pure, personal, and essential chapter in his catalog.

Continue ReadingDel tha Funkee Homosapien — Both Sides of the Brain (2000): The Transition Album

Souls of Mischief — There Is Only Now (2014): The Orchestral Late-Career Masterpiece

Souls of Mischief's 2014 album There Is Only Now, produced by Adrian Younge, is arguably their best work since 93 til Infinity -- a sweeping orchestral statement from four MCs at the top of their game.

Continue ReadingSouls of Mischief — There Is Only Now (2014): The Orchestral Late-Career Masterpiece

Del tha Funkee Homosapien — I Wish My Brother George Was Here (1991): The Debut That Started It All

Del tha Funkee Homosapien's 1991 debut is where the Hieroglyphics story begins. Here's a deep dive into the album that introduced one of hip-hop's most original voices.

Continue ReadingDel tha Funkee Homosapien — I Wish My Brother George Was Here (1991): The Debut That Started It All