Nas - Stillmatic (2 LP)

Nas' iconic album, Stillmatic, released on 18 December 2001, is a masterpiece of East Coast hip hop. This 56-minute journey through the streets of New York is a testament to Nas' lyrical prowess and storytelling ability. With Columbia as the backing label, Nas delivers a cohesive and hard-hitting collection of tracks that solidify his position as a hip hop legend.

From the intro, 'Stillmatic (The Intro)', to the final notes of 'Every Ghetto', featuring Blitz The Ambassador, Nas takes listeners on a sonic exploration of the hip hop world. Tracks like 'Ether' and 'Got Ur Self A Gun' showcase his ability to craft infectious, head-nodding beats, while 'One Mic' and '2nd Childhood' demonstrate his capacity for introspective and personal songwriting.

The album also features an impressive array of collaborations, including 'The Flyest' with AZ, 'Rule' with Amerie, and 'My Country' with Millennium Thug. These guest appearances add a new layer of depth to the album, highlighting Nas' ability to work with a variety of artists and styles.

With Stillmatic, Nas proves himself to be a master of his craft, weaving together a complex and engaging narrative that explores the highs and lows of life in the inner city. This album is a must-listen for fans of hip hop and Nas alike, offering a glimpse into the mind of one of the genre's most talented and influential artists.

This 2023 Repress 2LP set is pressed on Silver vinyl.