Nineteen Ninety Now

iTunes Review

Also known as the Rubix Cuban, Tampa's Celph Titled is no stranger to followers of indie hip-hop, he's been putting in work since the late '90s, collaborating with groups like Army of the Pharoahs and Boss Hog Barbarians, as well as his own imposing crew, the Demigodz. Blessed with a gift for hilarious, off-color punchlines, he's never cracked into the mainstream, but continues releasing quality tunes regardless. On Nineteen Ninety Now, he links up with esteemed D.I.T.C. producer Buckwild, who contributes 16 beats originally concocted back in the mid-'90s’ golden era. Thunderous basslines, familiar loops, and neck-breaking drums are the order of the day here, topped with alternately murderous and comical verses primarily concerned with destroying wack rappers and dominating the ladies. Ideal for older heads dismayed with the increasing corniness of modern-day hip-hop, it's not a throwback so much as a throwdown. Seriously banging from start to finish, with a rogue's gallery of legendary guests like Treach, Chino XL, A.G., Diamond D, R.A. the Rugged Man, and Grand Puba.