Waxolutionists - We Paint Colors (2009)

This is a trio of producers out of Austria creating some of the freshest hip-hop I've heard this year. It's an eclectic selection of tracks that don't rely on convention. Feels like an extended summer, so vibe out.

Michna - Magic Monday (2008)

Adrian Michna, co-founder of the Secret Frequency Crew. This is his only full length solo release to date. It's a sweet blend of glitchy electronics with a smattering of acoustic trombone, proving to be a satisfying listen every time.

Blueprint - Sign Language (2009)

I am familiar with Blueprint from his MC duties as half of Soul Position, but I didn't know what to expect from his production. Well, expectations blown. It's deep, dirty, and warm, and you have no choice but to let it surround you.

Pete Rock - The Surviving Elements (2005)

Pete Rock is the definition! This album showcases how real his tracks are all by themselves. Too often his laid back vibe is disturbed by an up-front vocal track and it can't hypnotize you like when it's just him and the MPC.

Metaform - Standing on the Shoulders of Giants (2008)

When I first got this album, I had to listen to it over and over just to catch all the little snippets of intrigue that are contained within the short songs. It doesn't give the feeling of flow so much as each track is a trip of it's own.