De La Soul, Stakes Is High, Double Vinyl, Reissue, LP, Chrysalis, 2023
Double vinyl LP pressing.
“Stakes Is High” is the fourth studio album by American hip-hop trio De La Soul, originally released on July 2, 1996. The record marked a significant shift in the group’s sound and lyrical content, reflecting their disillusionment with the state of hip-hop and society as a whole.
With thought-provoking and socially conscious lyrics, De La Soul tackled various topics such as commercialization of the music industry, racial inequality, and the erosion of moral values. The album’s title track, “Stakes Is High,” became an anthem for the group, expressing their frustration with the direction of hip-hop and urging artists to prioritize substance over superficiality.
Musically, the album showcased a departure from the sample-heavy sound of their previous works, embracing a more stripped-down and gritty production style. De La Soul incorporated live instrumentation and collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Common, Mos Def, and Busta Rhymes, among others.
