Flashback Friday: Soundbombing II and Lyricist Lounge 2

Don’t you miss compilation rap albums? Those collections that featured a wide array of lyricists spittin’ until their hearts’ content? Every artist seemed determined to outshine the next, and that competition was sweet music to our ears.

Compilation albums may be few and far between these days (outside of Rawse’s Self Made series) so let’s return to the glory days of Rawkus Records and two of their best collections.

Soundbombing II (1999)

The second installment of the Soundbombing series is very likely the best, featuring heavyweights like Common, Mos Def, Pharaohe Monch and an up-and-coming Eminem. It was simply relentless, hard-core hip hop.

Also check out:

“Next Universe” — Mos Def

“Chaos” — Reflection Eternal and Bahamadia

Lyricist Lounge 2 (2000)

Soundbombing II arguably is the most beloved of Rawkus’ collections but Lyricist Lounge 2 is likely the most successful, producing a few crossover singles. “Oh No” even wound up topping the charts, a feat that seems nearly impossible in 2016.

Also check out:

“16 Bars” — Notorious B.I.G.

“Ms. Fat Booty 2” — Mos Def and Ghostface Killah

Now, it’s your turn. Email soulinstereoblog@gmail.com  hit me up on Twitter @etbowser, or stop by the comments section and share your Flashback Friday album. Leave a couple of sentences describing what makes it so great. I’ll feature your album on the blog.