The Dual Sides of Sagacity: Ranking Hip-Hop’s Finest Double-Disc Albums
We ranked ten of them in no order. You care. #HipHop50
Numerous rappers have endeavored to produce a double album. Numerous double-disc offerings feature superfluous tracks dispersed throughout their extended durations, resulting in a fatiguing auditory experience. Although a lengthy tracklist may reduce an album’s replayability, a select few double-disc albums of classic status have been made available. The creation of a double-disc album is a noteworthy achievement. However, producing a timeless double album is evidence of the music’s excellence.
The following is a chronological compilation of imperative double albums in the hip-hop genre. The ranking solely comprises double-disc albums, and it excludes those that were released as separate entities. Albums divided into distinct acts are not considered double albums technically and therefore were not subject to review in this context.
2Pac — All Eyez On Me
The album All Eyez On Me marked 2Pac’s return from prison, showcasing a hardened and determined artist. It was a monumental achievement, as it was the first double-disc album of original material in hip-hop history. 2Pac’s embrace of the gangsta lifestyle is evident throughout the album, with only a few reflective tracks that are now more romanticized. Despite its flaws, the album accurately depicts the brazen excesses of 2Pac’s thug icon persona. The second disc is weighed down by filler and numerous guest appearances, including too many thug-loving divas crooning their loyalty. Nevertheless, All Eyez On Me demonstrates the confidence and assuredness of a legend in his own time.
The Notorious B.I.G. — Life After Death
After his debut Ready to Die, the Notorious B.I.G. took a few years to release his second album, Life After Death. However, it was a grand affair when it finally came out in 1997. The album was an ambitious sequel to its predecessor and spanned two discs, featuring 24 songs (12 on each). Despite its vastness, the album did not have any lackluster filler tracks. Biggie collaborated with several producers, including DJ Premier, Easy Mo Bee, Clark Kent, and RZA, resulting in a diverse and eclectic collection of songs. Looking back, Life After Death was a fitting end to Biggie’s career, showcasing his unparalleled success with its exquisite and overreaching style that only someone of his stature could pull off.
Wu-Tang Clan — Wu-Tang Forever
When the Wu-Tang Clan regrouped for their second album, they decided to try the double-disc format that was popular at the time. They could fill both discs without relying on guest appearances with nine MCs and a new protégé, Cappadonna. The result, Wu-Tang Forever, is impressive but sprawling, lacking the controlled chaos of their debut album. While some hailed it as the best double-disc hip-hop album, others found it disappointing as the Wu fell short of their ambitions. Nevertheless, it remains a great album with many high points.
Bone Thugs-n-Harmony — The Art of War
The Art of War offers a wealth of insights beyond what’s been previously expressed by Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. Initially conceived under the title DNA Level C, an inventive reverse reference to the city of Cleveland, the album navigated a sea of challenges, including accusations of imitating artists/groups like Three 6 Mafia and Twista. Bizzy Bone, a vital band member, demonstrated admirable resilience by contributing to the album while grappling with the profound grief of his father’s demise. Despite being somewhat overlooked in the larger hip-hop scene, the album is a treasure trove of potent tracks in its double-disc format. The lyrics oscillate between various themes, from revenge to different human emotions, crafting an implicit narrative and often venturing into the melancholic spectrum.
OutKast — Speakerboxxx/The Love Below
It was difficult to predict the next move of the dynamic duo. However, a scenario that was not widely considered was for Big Boi and André 3000 to part ways, each creating their album and then combining them to form the fifth OutKast album, Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, released in the autumn of 2003. Although it would have been an exhilarating experience to listen to these 39 tracks mixed up, alternating between Boi and Dre’s songs, the two albums demonstrate that the music can be executed solo but still embody the essence of OutKast. The assumption that Big Boi’s album, Speakerboxxx, would be more conventional and André 3000’s, The Love Below, more experimental due to their public personas and past music, is not entirely accurate.
Big Boi and André 3000 started from the same point and ventured in different directions. Yet, they sound united because they share the same carefree aesthetic, where anything is possible within their music. This spirit fuels the best hip-hop and pop music, and both Speakerboxxx and The Love Below are among the finest hip-hop and pop music released in this decade. Each album is a standout on its own; combined, they are an undeniable force.
UGK — UGK (Underground Kingz)
Upon his release from prison in late 2005, Pimp C was eager to get the group back in the game after being off the scene for three years. Their album, Underground Kingz, is a remarkable achievement that overcomes all obstacles, evident in its two-disc length. Although it cannot turn back time, the missed street dates are a small price to pay for such a solid album. The guest list is a collection of individuals who respect and honor authenticity, while UGK themselves have maintained their skills. Bun B remains a reliable soldier, while Pimp C remains the album’s primary producer, spitting verses and creating hooks. The undeniable chemistry between Pimp C and Bun B is central to the album. Both rappers are highly talented individually, but it’s a match made in heaven when they come together.
Blu — Good to Be Home
Throughout his career, Blu has navigated the Hip Hop scene with caution. He exists on the fringes of the mainstream without the necessary material or label support for a significant impact. However, ignoring his progress would be unwise. While he has left behind unfinished projects and unrefined tracks, Good to Be Home represents a more polished and deliberate version of his nonchalant style. Though he has been criticized for mumbling through lo-fi tracks in the past, he appears carefree and intentional on this album. While he may not be as introspective as he has been in the past, he maintains focus throughout. The album is a tribute to his hometown as he takes listeners on a city tour. While he suggests that the music is better suited for a car than headphones, it’s refreshing to see him take a moment to reflect.
Vince Staples — Summertime ’06
Vince Staples’ Summertime ’06 album expands on the promise of his previous EP. His delivery is confident and relaxed, with a subtle hint of relaxation that suggests he’s at ease. The production, primarily from No ID and Clams Casino, creates a dark and alluring atmosphere that feels inviting and enigmatic. The album’s weighty themes are split into two discs, allowing for easier digestion of its richness. Summertime ’06 is a triumph of artistry, packaged perfectly to match its concept.
Big K.R.I.T. — 4eva Is a Mighty Long Time
The third proper full-length album of Mississippi rapper Big K.R.I.T. was released under his label, Multi Alumni. This double album stands out as his most personal work yet, evident in the titles of the first and another track, “Big K.R.I.T.” and “Justin Scott,” respectively, which are his real name. With complete creative control, K.R.I.T. prioritizes creating a lasting impact rather than following fleeting trends. Despite its length of 20 songs and two skits, 4eva Is a Mighty Long Time showcases K.R.I.T.’s unwavering passion and vigor in expressing his thoughts and ideas through this ambitious project.
Kendrick Lamar — Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers
Kendrick Lamar is known for creating complex and conceptual albums, telling stories that are more than just a collection of songs. His fifth album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, is no exception, containing two discs worth of interconnected statements that are emotionally dense, intricate, and sometimes uncomfortably raw. Unlike his previous albums, which had spacious sounds or uplifting funky beats, this album is musically and lyrically scattered. The album’s first half is particularly intricate, exploring themes of trauma, grief, society, and Kendrick’s relationship with fame. Throughout the album, he turns these experiences inward, seeking personal growth amidst personal and societal changes.
While Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers may not be as immediately accessible as some of Lamar’s previous work, the album has its moments of enlightenment and harrowing revelations. Lamar lays everything bare, striving to uncover his unfiltered personal truth and creating some of his most challenging and expectation-defying work to date.
Originally published at https://shatterthestandards.substack.com.
