More than during any period of its history previous or since, NYC hip-hop in the ’90s fixated on streets-centric authenticity. Being “real” – musically, ethically, biographically – was paramount. From their first release, however, Brooklyn’s Jigmastas proudly defined themselves by nobody’s measure of validity but their own. While others chased the so-called real, DJ Spinna and Kriminul claimed “Beyond Real,” the title of their 1996 independent single on the label of the same name, a debut gem that established their M.O. as purveyors of sonic sophistication and everyman truths.

iTunes: Grassroots – The Prologue (Deluxe Edition) – Jigmastas