The duo of Krazy Drayz and Scoob turned themselves into hip-hop phenomenons with their 1992 debut, Dead Serious. Coming up as part of EPMD's Hit Squad, the project showcased their tongue-twisting flows—a tricksy style that was quickly imitated by other rappers. Straight Up Sewaside followed the next year as they attempted to capitalise on their buzz, although it was 1995's Hold It Down that proved the emcees were more than one-trick ponies as they teamed up with New York City producers like DJ Premier and Showbiz to move in a more rugged sonic direction.