What makes Back to the L.A.B. by KRS-One notable?

The album is notable for its unapologetic commentary on social issues and the state of hip-hop in the late 2000s. While it did not achieve mainstream chart success, it resonated within underground circles where KRS-One's influence remains strong, reinforcing his status as a voice of conscious hip-hop. By the time 'Back to the L.A.B.' was released in 2010, KRS-One had established himself as a foundational figure in hip-hop, known for his lyrical prowess and activism. This album came during a period of reinvigoration for the artist, following projects that explored more experimental sounds; it marked a return to his hardcore roots while addressing contemporary issues.

Who is Back to the L.A.B. for?

Back to the L.A.B. works well if you're into concise bursts of energy, social commentary with urgency and front-loaded intensity throughout.

How many songs are on Back to the L.A.B.?

Back to the L.A.B. has 6 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

Back to the L.A.B.

KRS-One · 2010

17 min · 6 tracks · hardcore hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop · political hip-hop

KRS-One delivers raw, unfiltered rhymes over classic boom bap beats packed with social commentary.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

concise bursts of energy
social commentary with urgency
front-loaded intensity throughout
for quick sessions

Maybe skip if you want

prefer longer, immersive albums
seek melodic, laid-back vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Back to the L.A.B.' was released in 2010, KRS-One had established himself as a foundational figure in hip-hop, known for his lyrical prowess and activism. This album came during a period of reinvigoration for the artist, following projects that explored more experimental sounds; it marked a return to his hardcore roots while addressing contemporary issues.
Stylistic neighbors: Nas· Rakim· Public Enemy

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Who da Best 2:48
2 Omni-Hood 3:13
3 WOLF 3:12
4 Show Shocked 3:40
5 Never Afraid 2:19
6 TEK-NOLOGY 1:59

What to play next

Listen next

Meta-Historical

2010

Go back to

Playlist: The Very Best of KRS-One

2010

Full KRS-One discography Artists like KRS-One

East Coast hip-hop hardcore hip-hop political hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata