Various – Black Market Records Presents Desperados

Album info

Released on November 16, 1999, by Black Market Records, “Desperados” is a seminal compilation album that captures the raw essence and the melodic dynamism of late-’90s Hip Hop. Spanning Gangsta rap and R&B/Swing, the album is an eclectic mix that showcases a range of artists and producers, each adding their unique touch to the compilation.

The album opens with “Desperado,” featuring Cevan Segal, Tequila, and Kronik Dogg of PCO, setting an atmospheric tone with narrative elements from reporter Sparkle Hogan. Produced by Lamont Blackshire, this track is a thematic overture for what’s to come.

PCO’s “Murder Ones,” produced by Kronik Dogg, is a hard-hitting exploration of street life, followed by Chopah of Triple Beam’s “Greedy,” a beat-heavy track produced by KG. Kapital Boyz’s “Desperado Killa,” featuring Lucky Beau and D.Stone, elevates the album with a more refined, rhythmic flow. Keak Da Sneak’s “Life Ain’t Bullshit” is a lyrical commentary on life’s challenges, rounding out the album’s first half with finesse.

Mid-album, we get the chilling “The Evil That Men Do” featuring Nefarious, C-Bo, and UTG. Produced by RAW, this track delves deep into the darker aspects of humanity. Brotha Lynch Hung’s “Xcaliber” is another standout, its moody production by Phonk Beta fitting perfectly with the album’s atmosphere.

Tracks like “Success” by Homicide and “Can’t Let Da Game” by Kronk Dogg of PCO featuring KG add depth to the album, dealing with themes of ambition and the perils of the game. The compilation also features guest appearances by well-known artists like Mac Shawn & Daz, courtesy of Death Row, and Kapital Boyz, courtesy of Kapital Punishment.

Executive-produced by Cedric Singleton and co-executive-produced by C. Anthony Polk, the album benefits from meticulous production and management. Jeff Keller serves as the media manager, providing a solid promotional backbone along with other key contributors like Big Roc and Chisoni Irving.

The album artwork by Phantom and layout by Cedsing further enhance the project’s aesthetic appeal. In summary, “Desperados” is a well-curated collection of late-’90s Hip Hop, presenting a multifaceted view of a genre in transition, yet firmly rooted in its core values and stylistic elements. This is a must-listen for any aficionado of the period’s musical complexity and cultural relevance.