Out of Business
EPMD · 1999
47 min · 14 tracks · East Coast hip-hop
A vibrant blend of classic East Coast beats and sharp, witty lyricism that showcases EPMD's signature style.
Top tracks — play these first
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Pioneers — This track features a nostalgic look back at the duo's impact on hip-hop, blending clever wordplay with a catchy hook that encapsulates their legacy.
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Rap Is Still Outta Control — A commentary on the evolving nature of hip-hop, this track balances humor and critique while showcasing EPMD's lyrical prowess and signature sound.
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Symphony 2000 — This sequel to the original 'Symphony' brings together various artists in a collaborative format, highlighting EPMD’s role as connectors in the hip-hop community.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
EPMD's blend of sharp lyricism and sample-rich production creates an engaging yet familiar hip-hop experience.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of sample-heavy production, with tracks often layering multiple samples to create a rich sonic texture.
- Several tracks incorporate call-and-response elements, engaging listeners and creating a dynamic interaction between the artists and their audience.
- The sequencing includes interludes that serve as transitions, maintaining a cohesive flow while also providing context for the themes explored in the lyrics.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo listening experience
- sharp lyricism with witty delivery
- for casual gatherings
- engaging flow for road trips
Maybe skip if you
- prefer high-energy party tracks
- seek instant gratification sounds
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1999, Out of Business is EPMD's fifth studio album, marking their return after a five-year hiatus. This period followed their split in 1993 and subsequent reunions, positioning the album as a reflection of their resilience and continued influence in hip-hop.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Eric B. & Rakim· Gang Starr· A Tribe Called Quest
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 2:18
- 2 Pioneers 3:14
- 3 Right Now 3:51
- 4 Check 1, 2 3:16
- 5 Symphony 3:01
- 6 Hold Me Down 3:34
- 7 Rap Is Still Outta Control 3:33
- 8 The Fan 3:03
- 9 Draw 3:22
- 10 U Got Shot 3:38
- 11 House Party 3:52
- 12 The Funk 2:08
- 13 Symphony 2000 4:03
- 14 Jane 6 4:22
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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