Jurassic 5
Quality Control

At just 17, Aaliyah released her second album and was already one of the most commanding artists in modern R&B, all while finishing drama school and preparing to star in Romeo Must Die. Linking up with Missy Elliot and Timbaland on a number of tracks, this 1996 2xLP was a bold step up from her debut with a future-leaning sound. With OG pressings asking for a lot, this reissue is a chance to cop a pivotal piece of R&B history on wax. Essential!

Timbaland, one of the late 90s key Hip-Hop producers, released his proper solo debut in late 1998. While not quite the personal statement implied in the title, it is full of excellent productions and BIG features. Timbo regulars Missy Elliott and Magoo contribute tracks, as well as some huge names in Nas, Jay-Z and even a young Ludacris on his first commercial track! Though his trademark style of stuttered beats and obtuse samples is probably best witnessed on singles by Missy Elliott and Aaliyah, Tim's Bio is a key introduction to the talents of hip-hop's best young producer of the late '90s.