New Hip-Hop Releases - August 2007

Old 2Pac tracks get a facelift once again on the follow-up to 2003's Nu Mixx Klazzics. Hardcore Shakur fans should skip this, as many of the songs here already appeared on well-known albums like All Eyez on Me and Makavelli: The 7 Day Theory.

Release Date: August 7

Grammy-nominated rapper Yung Joc returns with his sophomore LP, Hustlenomics. But don't be deceived by the title, Joc hasn't exactly slung his sound to new heights. Hopefully he can find a way to wake up some of the heads he sent to sleep with that one song that put him on the first place.

Release Date: August 28

Straight outta Wu-Tang's Shaolin Temple comes this crew of gritty wordsmiths. Ice Water's Polluted Water features collaborations with Busta Rhymes, Remy Ma, and the group's mentor Raekwon the Chef.

Release Date: August 28

Killah Priest, one-fourth of the HRSMN crew, is back with his 5th solo album. The Offering finds Priest teaming up with likeminded emcees Nas, Ras Kass, Canibus, and Hell Razah.

Release Date: August 28th.

Strong Arm Steady (Phil da Agony, Mitchy Slick, and Krondon) have been blazing the mixtape circuit with their street-sanctioned brand of hip-hop. Now they west coast crew is ready to unravel their first full-length, Deep Hearted. Guest MCs include Chamillionaire, Black Thought, Xzibit (a founding member of Strong Arm Steady), Talib Kweli, and Ras Kass.

Release Date: August 28

Barely a year after releasing The Last Stand, Boot Camp Clik return with Casualties of War. Producers on board for the album include: Marco Polo, 9th Wonder, and Nottz.

Release Date: August 14th

It's been four years since we last heard from indy rap stalwart Aesop Rock. But that's all about to change with None Shall Pass (the title is a reference to the sign awaiting sinners at the pearly gates). Collaborators include Def Jux honcho El-P, Cage, and Rob Sonic.

Release Date: August 28th.

Propelled by the monstrous "Int'l Players Anthem," UGK's self-titled double album has finally arrived. Underground Kingz features production by UGK's Lone Star state cohort Scarface.

Release Date: August 7th

Finally arriving a year later than scheduled, Ear Drum is Talib Kweli's Warner Bros. debut. It spots collaborations with UGK, Kanye West, KRS-One, Norah Jones, Strong Arm Steady, Justin Timberlake, Raheem DeVaughn, and Musiq Soulchild. Release Date: August 21

Though he shares production duties with Nottz, Neo da Matrix, Needlz and others, energetic producer/rapper Swizz Beatz keeps guest features to a minimum on One Man Band Man.

Release Date: August 21