Veteran artist/producer Saukrates is a living legend and his 1999 full-length debut is arguably in the Top 10 Canadian hip-hop albums of all-time discussion. The project is all grown up now – with over 18 years since it dropped back in June 1999 – and now the Big Black Lincoln lead singer has issued an extended version of The Underground Tapes LP and finally made it available for streaming on major outlets.
The project includes remixes and B-sides, as well as remastered version of the original 13 songs. The track listing features appearances by – in order of appearance – DJ X, Xzibit, Pharoahe Monch, Common, Heltah Skeltah, Masta Ace, and O.C. One track in particular you’ll definitely want to check out is the 2017 version of the Toronto hip-hop classic, “Hate Runs Deep.” The original featured Marvel (of F.O.S) and the remix also features Choclair and Kardinal Offishall. Saukrates had this to say about the release:
“To have the opportunity to re-release The Underground Tapes LP is truly exciting for me. So many fans, old and new, have been requesting it be made available again and this is flattery at its finest. Now, almost 20 years later and using all the new technology, we’re ready to do it again and reach all those who missed the chance to add this LP to their collection.”