Released: 16/12/16 (Clear vinyl reissue released: 12/03/21) (7" box set released: 18/10/24)
Nas' Illmatic is a landmark debut that redefined East Coast hip-hop. Released in 1994, the album pairs Nas’ vivid street poetry with masterful production from legends like DJ Premier, Pete Rock, and Q-Tip. Across ten tightly focused tracks, Nas captures the raw reality of life in Queensbridge, blending introspection, grit, and lyrical brilliance. Widely hailed as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, Illmatic set a new standard for storytelling and authenticity in rap.
Deluxe 30th anniversary edition of Illmatic celebrates Nas’ legendary debut with the full album plus two remixes, spread across six 7-inch records. Housed in a premium slipcase with gold-printed artwork, the set includes a hardbound book featuring full lyrics, rare photos, a 12-inch discography, and extensive liner notes by Sacha Jenkins.