Bad Season (Mixed by DJ Whoo Kid)

Editors’ Notes A testament to the power of perseverance, Kansas City rapper Tech N9ne has dropped over a dozen albums since the late ‘90s, provided music for countless movies and television shows, and built up a huge following despite little-to-no mainstream airplay. Unlike many indie MCs who put out mix-tapes on an almost weekly basis, Tech had never dropped one, until now. Assembled by compilation kingpin DJ Whoo Kid, Bad Season features some excellent joints produced by Travis Barker, Dr. Dre, Haitian Super Heroes, and Cookin Soul. Subject-matter ranges from getting busy to the music (""Sex To The Beat"") to staving off mental freakouts (""Losin' My Mind"") and pledging undying allegiance to the hood (""Down For The Block""). His quick-tongued flow and charismatic verses are in full effect on every track – especially on the acapella throwdowns ""Speed of Sound"" and ""Blammers and Burners,"" -- while the bold, neck-bending beats compliment his style perfectly. Whether you've been down with him since day one, or are just now catching on, this is a dope release from an artist who deserves to be huge.