By pairing a couple of all-time
Wu-Tang Clan tracks with classics from a host of other great rappers,
Loud Records: The Early Daze becomes an excellent look at the state of East Coast hardcore through the '90s. Sprinkled among the big-timers --
Wu-Tang's "Protect Ya Neck," "Method Man," and "C.R.E.A.M.";
Mobb Deep's "Shook Ones, Pt. II";
Akinyele's "Put It in Your Mouth";
tha Alkaholiks' "Likwit" -- are great one-shots from
Cella Dwellas ("Perfect Match") and Mad Kap ("Proof Is in the Puddin'"). ~ John Bush