It's not sequenced in chronological order, but that's about the only flaw with Island's 2002 compilation, A Ruff Guide. Over the course of 17 tracks, the highlights from Tricky's Island albums unspool, hitting every single and many of the great album tracks (including cuts from the Nearly God album). Although this may seem like it'd be just for the fellow travelers -- the kind of casual fan that just wants the hits -- this is actually a very useful compilation for those that followed his car...   [ read more ]

CD $44.63

The only serious challenger to Lady Saw's "Queen of Slackness" title, Tanya Stephens works the same formula of raw beats and sexually graphic lyrics, but with less brassiness than Saw. Ruff Rider shows off her husky vocals and sassy delivery, allowing for an album full of wickedly enjoyable dancehall. Standouts include the swirling riddim of "Think It Over," done with the melody of the Tommy James '60s hit "Crimson & Clover"; a vicious duet with Bounty Killer on "Cry & Bawl," and a hip-wi...   [ read more ]

CD $11.38

When Eve debuted in 1999, she surprised many as one of the few female rappers capable of attaining both popularity and respect without having to take on a sleazy role or sacrifice any of her muscle. In fact, her muscle seemed to be what impressed the rap community most. If anything, Eve brings even more muscle to her follow-up album, Scorpion. Her rhymes flow just as smoothly here as they did on her debut, and she sounds even more confident than before. Given her ensemble cast of producers and ...   [ read more ]

CD $13.25