So we’ve already announced two LP’s and by now it should be evident that not only is K-Def unpredictable, but also that he has a soft spot for nostalgia and while he considers himself a forward thinker, he occasionally likes to reminisce over “The Way It Was.” We at Redef are often surprised at the “Ghetto Man’s” output. The Way It Was is a special collection of tracks gathered from K’s 20 plus year career as a Hip Hop producer. The album contains notable instrumentals originally released in the 90’s during his House of Hitz run, many curated from cassettes, DAT’s, floppies and even vinyl B-Sides to be reproduced/remastered for this collection. The 90’s material is also accompanied by some special guest appearances by Redef affiliate Blu on 3 tracks, Quartermaine, Redef’s newest addition Kunal, and even Damu the Fudgemunk (new vocal tracks created using old beats). When naming the album, K-Def chose the title, because the prominent theme of the music is that it was composed in the 90’s using the techniques and tools of the era, including like the MPC 60 or MPC 3000, before K upgraded to using virtual instruments and software based platforms in the late 90s. The Way It Was is an essential release to any K-Def fan. Speaking of essentials, K was recently interviewed on Hip-Hop’s Best podcast, The Cipher Show, which should not be missed.

Second in the lineup is Def’s next flagship solo release, The Unpredictable Gemini. Fans familiar with K-Def’s Redef legacy albums such as One Man Band and Night Shift should be prepared to indulge in another high definition instrumental experience. The Unpredictable Gemini showcases his evolving style and genre pioneering tricks and techniques he continues to refine through the use of his unique production tools. Though we consider this one an instrumental effort, it does include one bonus track with vocals. Who are the guests on it? We’ll save the surprise for a later time, but here are some clues:

The bonus track has two MC’s on it.
The first guest has contributed significantly to Redef as a label and this is his first collaboration on record with K-Def.
Guest number two is a legendary MC and original member of DITC.

First up, we have the “Back to the Beat” Volume 2. The highly anticipated sequel from K-Def and the 45 King was assembled earlier this year as a nod to the satisfied listeners who appreciated the classic of their first effort, Back to the Beat Vol 1 (Vol 1 Vinyl is sold out, but the album is still available digitally on iTunes/Apple Music) or free to stream on Soundcloud). Like Vol 1, BTTB2 is fully instrumental and features K and 45 trading ideas, putting their affinity for their craft on display. Available this winter on vinyl, tape and digital (maybe CD too, if you request it).