In Brief

The first nationwide release from this Brooklyn legend illustrates why rappers clamor to appear on his mix-tapes--collections of new tracks designed to create a street buzz for both the DJ and the artists. Hard-hitting production, masterful braggadocio rhymes and the overall star power enhance the reputations of everyone featured on this 20-song collection, which hits stores Tuesday. As on Tony’s earlier, independent releases, all the artists showcased here--from Eminem and Rah Digga to De La Soul and Lord Finesse--deliver explosive performances.

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Albums are rated on a scale of one star (poor), two stars (fair), three stars (good) and four stars (excellent). The albums are already released unless otherwise noted.