1992 Deluxe

Editors’ Notes On 1992 Deluxe, Princess Nokia bloodies eardrums with steady word combinations, illuminating the Big Apple's African and Nuyorican diasporas. Self-identity and self-preservation are major themes. She manages stress levels (“Kitana”), gives a shout-out to rebel girls (“Tomboy”), and recalls her come-up (“Goth Kid,” “G.O.A.T.”). There are nods to current trends with a skittering hi-hat or two, but 1992 Deluxe is a rugged, underground affair—all baggy pants and Timbs—capable of making a mid-'90s backpacker weep with reverence.