"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 <I>Spin</I>, <I>Rolling Stone</I>, <I>The Source</I>, and <I>Vibe</I>. 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."