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Episode Fourteen

Strapped with one of the most unusual and instantly recognizable voices in hip-hop, New York wordsmith Aesop Rock has amassed a hugely devoted, global fanbase thanks to his intricate storytelling and inimitable flow. One of the flagship artists on independent juggernaut Def Jux, he has been recording for over a decade now, and continues to expand his sound with each release. Here, Aesop talks about his brand new album None Shall Pass, reflects on the current state of rap music, and offers his advice to aspiring microphone touchers.

Part of the Native Tongues family, A Tribe Called Quest were one of the most beloved acts of the nineties. With Q-Tip and Phife on the mic, and jazz-infused beats provided by Ali Shaheed Muhammed, the Queens trio dropped five albums between 1990 and 1998, and then rode off into the sunset, persuing solo careers and various other projects. "Electric Relaxation" is from their third LP Midnight Marauders.

Last but not least, we have a live performance from one of hip-hop's most eccentric pioneers, Kool Keith. He got his start way back in the early eighties as a member of Ultramagnetic MCs, and has since released a staggering amount of material under countless aliases on a wide array of record labels. He is perhaps best known for his Dr. Octagon and Black Elvis personas, which are in full effect while performing "Blue Flowers" at this 1999 concert in San Francisco.

Enjoy the show!