The Impossible: Mission TV Series – Pt. 1 cover

Released 20 years ago

The Impossible: Mission TV Series – Pt. 1

De La Soul · 2006

53 min · 21 tracks · hip-hop

A playful blend of eclectic samples and clever wordplay, showcasing De La Soul's signature humor and innovative spirit.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Live @ the Dugout 87’ Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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    Voodoo Circus — This track stands out for its rich layering of samples and complex lyrical themes, reflecting De La Soul's ability to weave storytelling with musical innovation.
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    Friends — With its catchy hook and playful lyrics, this track captures the essence of camaraderie and friendship, serving as a nostalgic nod to past collaborations.
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    Relax — This song embodies the laid-back vibe of the album and showcases De La Soul's effortless flow, making it an excellent representation of their unique sound.
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    Freedom Train — Addressing social issues through metaphorical lyrics, this track highlights the group's commitment to using their platform for meaningful commentary.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • playful exploration of lyrical wit
  • dynamic progression with emotional peaks
  • short tracks for quick engagement
  • for upbeat social settings
  • introspective moments amidst playful rhythms

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer long, cohesive soundscapes
  • dislike playful and quirky styles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — The album features a deliberate departure from De La Soul's established sound.
Themes
nostalgic camaraderie· social commentary· playful storytelling
Career context
Released in 2006, The Impossible: Mission TV Series – Pt. 1 came during a transitional phase for De La Soul, following their critically acclaimed album The Grind Date in 2004. This project exemplified their continual evolution as artists, exploring new sounds while maintaining their distinctive style that had influenced hip-hop since the late '80s.
Stylistic neighbors
A Tribe Called Quest· The Roots· J Dilla
New to De La Soul? Find your way in →

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Voodoo Circus

    The verse shifts focus to personal experiences intertwined with surreal imagery that creates a vivid narrative landscape.

Tracklist

  • 1 Impossible Intro 1:03
  • 2 Live @ the Dugout 87’ Start here 2:48
  • 3 Voodoo Circus 2:52
  • 4 Friends 2:43
  • 5 What the Fuck #1 1:49
  • 6 Go Out and Get It 2:33
  • 7 Respect 3:33
  • 8 Beef 0:58
  • 9 Reverse Your Steps 2:13
  • 10 You Got It 2:16
  • 11 What the Fuck #2 4:06
  • 12 Just Havin’ a Ball 2:53
  • 13 What If? 0:31
  • 14 Relax 2:59
  • 15 Wasn’t for You 4:50
  • 16 The Corner 2:58
  • 17 Freestyle (Dat Shit) 2006 2:38
  • 18 What the Fuck #3 1:57
  • 19 Freedom Train 2:47
  • 32 [silence] 0:04
  • 33 Buddy (live in Tokyo) 4:38

What to play next

Are You In?: Nike+ Original Run
Listen next

Are You In?: Nike+ Original Run

2009

Continues the experimental vibe with a fresh, rhythmic approach.
The Grind Date
Go back to

The Grind Date

2004

Sets the stage with a similar playful energy and clever lyricism.
Full De La Soul discography Where to start with De La Soul Artists like De La Soul
East Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop hip-hop

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

The Low End Theory

The Low End Theory

A Tribe Called Quest

Shares a playful approach to sampling and clever wordplay with an emphasis on jazz influences.

Quality Control

Quality Control

Jurassic 5

Combines eclectic samples and socially conscious lyrics, maintaining a fun, collaborative spirit.

Things Fall Apart

Things Fall Apart

The Roots

Merges innovative instrumentation with storytelling and social commentary, echoing De La Soul's playful vibe.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata