Released November 11, 1997
Recorded 1996–1997
Genre West Coast hip hop
Label Noo Trybe
Producer Bosko, Mike Dean, Tone Capone, QD III, Smoke One Productions, Raphael Saadiq
Tracklist
Intro (DJ Thump & Mengesha Mystro Francis)
Highest Niggaz in the Industry (feat. E-40 and B-Legit)
Funkin Over Nuthin'(feat. Too Short and Harm)
In My Nature (feat. 8Ball & MJG)
Jus Mee & U (feat. Raphael Saadiq)
Game (Interlude) (TK Kirkland)
My Baby Mamma
Is It Kool? (feat. MoKenStef)
Sad Millionaire (feat. Brownstone)
Killaz On the Payroll (feat. Phats Bossilini, Madd Maxx & Poppa LQ)
Phillies (feat. Poppa LQ)
Mobb Shit (feat. Swoop G, 3X Krazy & Cydal)
Y Do Thugz Die (feat. Val Young)
Hypnotize (feat. Redman)
Handcuff Your Hoes
20 Bluntz a Day (feat. 2 Live Crew and Christión)
11 O’Clock News (Hidden track CD only)
Revelationz (Hidden track Cassette only)
“Lunitik Muzik” is the debut album by American hip hop duo Luniz, consisting of rappers Yukmouth and Numskull. The album was released on October 22, 1996, by Noo Trybe Records and Virgin Records. The album’s production was handled by a variety of producers, including Mike Mosley, Tone Capone, and Rick Rock.
Critical reception:
Upon its release, “Lunitik Muzik” received generally positive reviews from music critics. The album was praised for its production, which was considered top-notch and for the unique chemistry between Yukmouth and Numskull’s contrasting styles. The album’s lead single, “I Got 5 on It,” was a commercial success, peaking at number 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the most iconic hip hop songs of the 90s.
Analysis:
The album’s opening track, “Intro,” sets the tone for the rest of the album, with its dark and menacing beat. The following track, “Put the Lead on Ya,” features Yukmouth and Numskull trading verses over a haunting beat. “I Got 5 on It” is undoubtedly the standout track of the album, with its catchy hook and laid-back vibe.
Other notable tracks include “Pimps, Playas & Hustlas,” which features a guest appearance from Dru Down and showcases the duo’s ability to tell vivid stories. “Playa Hata” is a scathing takedown of those who would try to bring down successful players in the game, and “Operation Stackola” features a guest appearance from fellow Bay Area rapper E-40.
Overall, “Lunitik Muzik” is a strong debut album that showcases Luniz’s unique chemistry and ability to craft memorable tracks. While the album’s production is top-notch, some of the tracks can feel repetitive or lackluster compared to the standout tracks. However, the album’s impact on the hip hop genre cannot be understated, and “I Got 5 on It” remains a timeless classic.
[Review]
