Boogie Down Productions - Criminal Minded: All Instrumental Album

BDP's Criminal Minded album redefined the rap scene in New York when it was originally released in 1986, and showed the world that hip hop could be a dynamic and consciousness-raising force. The album was named one of the 100 Essential Albums of the 20th Century and it's no wonder; KRS-One brought a new sampling aesthetic to hip-hop, focusing heavily on then underutilized James Brown sides from the 60's & 70's. Further, In KRS-One's rhymes listeners can hear that his purpose is not only to entertain, but educate. Standouts include "Poetry" and "9mm Goes Bang," which is about crime and drug dealing. This is definitely a must-have for anyone who loves or wants to understand rap better.