Top 10 Rap Releases - May 2008

As soon as you hear the hunger in RA Scion's voice, you know you're in for a unique experience. Scion, the rapping half of Common Market (Sabzi is the producing half), is comfortable rhyming about his personal struggle and the fight to juggle righteousness with retribution. Their 7-track EP, named after a 20th century farmers' rebellion in Western Kentucky, serves as the precursor to their full-length release Tobacco Road, due in September.

About a month removed from the day Devin Copeland dropped his debut in 1998, his Greatest Hits will hit stores as a reminder of his numerous contributions to the game. Past classics on the CD include: "Lacville," "Reefer and Beer," "What a Job" (with Andre 3000 and Snoop Dogg), and "Anythang."

If you're looking to add some spice to your collection without cheese, Killah Priest's Behind the Stained Glass is a good way to start. Like his Wu-Tang Clan fam, Priest favors pure lyricism over trend-chasing gimmicks.

Though Alchemist made his mark mixing up dangerous chemicals in the production lab, he's occasionally proved that his mic skills are almost as sharp as his board skills. Chemical Warfare, Alchemist's second solo album, finds him sharing airtime with countless collaborators. The lead single, "Key to the City," features Nina Sky and Alc's favorite collaborator Prodigy.

The sustained popularity of Bay Area icon Keak da Sneak proves that hip-hoppers still enjoy his music. Following his memorable appearance on E-40’s monstrous single "Tell Me When To Go," Keak is now making his KOCH Records debut with Deified. Guest appearances come from Daz Dillinger, Mr. Fab, Prodigy (of Mobb Deep), Alchemist, and Chingo Bling.

In case you forgot just how great Pete Rock is, the instrumental accompaniment to his NY's Finest album is here to remind you. The idea is a no-brainer. Wannabe MCs can now master with the sonical guidance of one of hip-hop's best sound architects.

You will search the shelves of Best Buy long and hard to find another rap album with the verbal energy and inspiring production that J Live brings on Then What Happened?. Collaborators on this project include: Posdnuous, Oddisee, and Chali 2 Na.

Following their widely praised 2006 debut School Was My Hustle, Kidz in the Hall sustain the college theme on their sophomore title, The In Crowd. This time, Naledge and Double-O teamed up with Bun B, Cool Kids, Skyzoo, and Travis McCoy of Gym Class Heroes.

With all the legal baggage now behind her, Foxy Brown can focus on getting back to what made her famous in the first place -- creating music. Let's hope Brooklyn's Don Diva will translate all that drama into some great work of art. Guests on the album include: AZ, Dwele, and Lil Mo.

Bun B has seen his second solo album get pushed back over and over. It's now slated for release on May 20th. With the death of Pimp C, Bun's UGK partner-in-rhyme, the duty of upholding the group's legacy now falls on Bun. Speaking of which, Pimp gets two tribute songs on II Trill. Collaborators on board for the album include: Lupe Fiasco, Lil Wayne, Chamillionaire, and R&B singer Mya.