Released: July 8, 1997
Recorded: 1996-1997
Genre: West Coast hip hop, Hip hop, Gangsta Rap
Length: 49:56
Label: Priority
Producer: Ant Banks (exec.)
In the summer of 1997, Ant Banks, the Oakland-based rapper and producer, gifted us with “Big Thangs.” While this compilation album may not have achieved mainstream chart-topping success, it remains an essential piece of West Coast hip-hop history. Let’s explore its nuances and impact.
The Soundscape: Ant Banks seamlessly blends gritty street narratives with smooth, laid-back beats. The album’s sonic palette is quintessentially West Coast, featuring funky basslines, soulful samples, and hypnotic rhythms. Tracks like “West Riden” transport listeners to the sun-drenched streets of California, where lowriders cruise and palm trees sway.
Collaborations: “Big Thangs” showcases Ant Banks’ collaborative prowess. He brings together an impressive roster of artists from the Bay Area and beyond. Notable contributors include Too $hort, E-40, Spice 1, and MC Eiht. Each artist adds their unique flavor to the mix, resulting in a diverse yet cohesive project.
Lyricism and Themes: Ant Banks doesn’t shy away from addressing real-life struggles. His lyrics delve into street life, hustling, and the pursuit of success. “4 Tha Hustlas” captures the hustle-and-grind mentality, while “Make Money” serves as an anthem for those navigating the rap game.
Standout Tracks:
- “Time Is Tickin’” stands out for its introspective lyrics and haunting piano loop. Ant Banks reflects on mortality and the passage of time.
- The title track, “Big Thangs,” exudes confidence and ambition. It’s an ode to making moves and leaving a mark.
- “Playa Paraphernalia” combines silky-smooth production with witty wordplay, making it a hidden gem.
Legacy and Influence: While “Big Thangs” didn’t dominate the charts, its influence reverberated within the hip-hop community. Artists continue to draw inspiration from Ant Banks’ sound, ensuring that this album remains relevant.
“Big Thangs” isn’t just an album; it’s a time capsule—a snapshot of ‘90s West Coast rap culture. Whether you’re a seasoned hip-hop head or a curious listener, give it a spin and immerse yourself in Ant Banks’ world of big dreams and even bigger beats
Tracklist
Intro (featuring Otis & Shug)
Big Thangs (featuring Too Short and Ice Cube)
Coolin in the Luff (featuring Chuey Gomez)
Can’t Stop (featuring E-40 and Mack 10)
West Riden (Intro by Young Jock, featuring King T and Spice 1)
Hard Knox (featuring J-Dubb, WC, Otis & Shug)
Gamblin wit’ Ice-T” (featuring Ice-T)
4 tha Hustlas (featuring Too Short, 2Pac, MC Breed, Otis & Shug)
Time Is Tickin’ (featuring Bad-N-Fluenz, Otis & Shug)
Cutaluff (Intro by Dr. Dre, featuring Slink Capone)
Hoo-Ride Ant Banks (featuring B-Legit, Mean Green, MC Ant and Baby DC)
Make Money (featuring CJ Mac, Mac Dee, Otis & Shug)
Playa Paraphernalia (Intro by Coolio, featuring J-Dubb and Rappin’ 4-Tay)
Fien (featuring Allfrumtha I)
You Want Me Back (featuring Audrian, J-Dubb and CJ Mac)
Outro
