Though he never really got much mainstream recognition, RA the Rugged Man is an underground icon, known mostly for his over-the-top dirtbag style and a extended history of urban-legend exploits. Kind of like a white ODB or a proto-Eminem, his rhymes, flow, and overall appearance are centered primarily on what a crazy screw-up he is. But there's more to it than that. In spite of his homeless-guy fashion sense and sordid reputation, he's actually a great MC, very adept at constructing complicated, multi-layered verses that are simultaneously funny, disturbing, and smart. This collection, released by NY-centric indie Nature Sounds, compiles 17 tracks from his solo releases as well as collaborations with a wide variety of acts, stretching all the way back to the early ‘90s. They're not all spectacular, but the good ones are definitely top-shelf. Don't miss the riveting "Uncommon Valor: A Vietnam Story," featuring Jedi Mind Tricks, "Who's Dat Guy" with Havoc, and the self-explanatory music- industry expose "Every Record Label Sucks D**k."