Derelicts of Dialect cover

Derelicts of Dialect

3rd Bass · 1991

76 min · 23 tracks · hip-hop

A witty blend of sharp lyrical delivery and eclectic sampling, embodying the playful spirit of early '90s hip-hop.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Pop Goes the Weasel — This track stands out for its biting commentary on racial issues in hip-hop, combined with an infectious hook that helped it become a commercial hit.
  • →
    Portrait of the Artist as a Hood — Here, the duo blends personal narrative with social critique, showcasing their lyrical prowess while painting a vivid picture of urban life.
  • →
    Derelicts of Dialect — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of authenticity and self-awareness in hip-hop, featuring clever wordplay and complex rhymes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with playful energy
  • clever wordplay for attentive listeners
  • dynamic flow for varied moods
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • engaging critiques with funky beats

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, slow builds
  • seek longer, cohesive narratives

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on June 18, 1991, 'Derelicts of Dialect' was the second album by 3rd Bass, following their debut 'The Cactus Album'. At this point in their career, they were establishing themselves as a critical voice in hip-hop, navigating a rapidly changing industry landscape marked by the rise of mainstream rap.
Stylistic neighbors
B.G.· UGK· DJ Paul

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Pop Goes the Weasel

    The line where the artists confront cultural appropriation directly amidst playful yet pointed lyrics about hip-hop's commercial landscape.

    This moment shifts from lightheartedness to serious critique, revealing their willingness to challenge industry norms while maintaining engagement.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Merchant of Grooves 1:37
  • 2 Derelicts of Dialect 4:10
  • 3 Ace in the Hole 3:39
  • 4 French Toast 0:49
  • 5 Portrait of the Artist as a Hood 4:29
  • 6 Pop Goes the Weasel 3:55
  • 7 Sea Vessel Soliloquy 0:40
  • 8 Daddy Rich in the Land of 1210 3:12
  • 9 Word to the Third 5:02
  • 10 Herbalz in Your Mouth 4:20
  • 11 Al’z A‐B‐Cee’z 1:51
  • 12 No Master Plan No Master Race 4:47
  • 13 Come In 3:07
  • 14 No Static at All 3:44
  • 15 Eye Jammie 1:05
  • 16 Microphone Techniques 4:59
  • 17 Problem Child 4:30
  • 18 3 Strikes 5000 4:03
  • 19 Kick Em in the Grill 2:37
  • 20 Green Eggs and Swine 4:45
  • 21 Derelicts of Dialect (S.D.50 remix) 4:13
  • 22 Pop Goes the Weasel (radio edit) 3:47
  • 23 M.C. Disagree and the Re‐Animator 0:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata