Description
Lootpack – The Lost Tapes – Double Vinyl Record
Released on June 14, 2004, Lootpack’s The Lost Tapes is a collection of rare and previously unreleased tracks that offers fans a deep dive into the early days of one of underground hip-hop’s most revered groups. Comprised of producer/MC Madlib, MC Wildchild, and DJ/producer DJ Romes, Lootpack was instrumental in shaping the sound of the West Coast underground hip-hop scene in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known for their raw, jazzy beats, intricate rhymes, and dedication to the art of hip-hop, Lootpack’s influence can still be felt today, particularly through Madlib’s highly successful solo career.
The Lost Tapes is a treasure trove for dedicated fans of Lootpack and Madlib, containing tracks recorded between 1996 and 1997, before the group’s debut album, Soundpieces: Da Antidote! (1999). The collection showcases the trio’s raw talent and chemistry, with Madlib’s sample-heavy, jazz-inflected production serving as the foundation for Wildchild’s complex wordplay and DJ Romes’ sharp scratching. For anyone curious about the roots of Lootpack and the evolution of the West Coast underground scene, The Lost Tapes offers an insightful and nostalgic listening experience.
Lootpack’s formation dates back to the early 1990s in Oxnard, California, where the three members—Madlib, Wildchild, and DJ Romes—began collaborating and performing locally. The group quickly caught the attention of Peanut Butter Wolf, founder of Stones Throw Records, who signed them to the label and helped them release their debut album, Soundpieces: Da Antidote!, in 1999.
Before their official debut, Lootpack was already building a reputation within the underground hip-hop community for their distinctive sound, which mixed elements of classic East Coast boom-bap with the laid-back vibe of West Coast production. The Lost Tapes captures this early period, showcasing tracks that were recorded in the mid-1990s, when Lootpack was honing their craft and developing the style that would later define their music.
The Lost Tapes offers a snapshot of Lootpack’s early sound—raw, unpolished, and deeply rooted in the classic elements of hip-hop. The production, handled primarily by Madlib, features dusty samples, jazz loops, and hard-hitting drums, evoking a nostalgic, crate-digging aesthetic. Madlib’s production is rich in texture, with a knack for finding obscure jazz, soul, and funk samples that give the music a vintage feel, while Wildchild’s rapid-fire delivery and DJ Romes’ scratching add layers of complexity and rhythm.
Madlib’s signature production style is already evident on The Lost Tapes. Tracks are built around chopped-up jazz and soul samples, with minimalistic but head-nodding drums that create a laid-back yet intricate backdrop for Wildchild’s rhymes. Songs like “Psyche Move” and “Episodes” exemplify this sound, with warm vinyl crackles, jazzy horns, and mellow basslines creating a timeless, underground vibe.
While Lootpack’s sound is distinctly West Coast, there is a strong influence of classic East Coast boom-bap production, particularly in the way Madlib constructs his beats. The heavy use of samples and DJ Romes’ turntable skills are reminiscent of groups like A Tribe Called Quest and Gang Starr, blending the laid-back West Coast sound with the intricate, jazz-infused elements of East Coast hip-hop.
Wildchild’s lyrical style is characterized by intricate wordplay, complex rhyme schemes, and an almost conversational flow. His delivery is energetic and direct, with a focus on lyricism and skill rather than mainstream appeal. Songs like “Freestyle” and “Out There” showcase his ability to weave clever punchlines and thoughtful narratives, while DJ Romes’ scratching adds a dynamic, old-school hip-hop flavor.
Thematically, The Lost Tapes is centered around the values of underground hip-hop: authenticity, artistic creativity, and respect for the roots of the genre. The songs reflect Lootpack’s dedication to keeping the art of hip-hop alive, with a focus on lyricism, DJing, and production skills that prioritize substance over commercial success.
Throughout the album, Lootpack emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of hip-hop culture. Songs like “Freestyle” and “Whatta We Do?” highlight the group’s love for the craft, with lyrics that pay homage to the pioneers of hip-hop and a focus on the elements that define the genre—MCing, DJing, and production.
The group’s underground mentality is a key theme of the album, with tracks like “Episodes” and “Psyche Move” reflecting their dedication to staying true to their roots. Lootpack’s music is deliberately non-commercial, focusing on the artistry of hip-hop rather than catering to radio or mainstream trends. This commitment to the underground scene is a hallmark of Lootpack’s identity and a major reason for their enduring influence.
Lyrically, The Lost Tapes is filled with clever wordplay, punchlines, and socially conscious themes. Wildchild’s rhymes often address the challenges of the music industry, the importance of originality, and the joy of creating music for the love of it. The tracks are laced with a sense of pride in their craft and a desire to push the boundaries of what hip-hop can be.
Notable Tracks
“Psyche Move”: One of the standout tracks, “Psyche Move” exemplifies Lootpack’s early sound, with Madlib’s jazz-infused production and Wildchild’s intricate lyricism. The track’s smooth, laid-back beat is complemented by sharp, head-spinning rhymes, making it a quintessential Lootpack cut.
“Episodes”: Built around a dusty jazz sample and minimalistic drums, “Episodes” showcases Madlib’s ability to create moody, atmospheric beats. Wildchild’s reflective lyrics and DJ Romes’ scratching add depth to the track, creating a perfect blend of lyricism and production.
“Freestyle”: True to its title, “Freestyle” is a lyrical workout for Wildchild, with rapid-fire rhymes delivered over a raw, stripped-down beat. The track highlights the importance of freestyle culture in underground hip-hop, with a focus on skill, creativity, and spontaneity.
“Whatta We Do?”: Featuring a more upbeat, funky groove, “Whatta We Do?” explores Lootpack’s philosophy of staying true to the underground. The track’s catchy hook and smooth production make it one of the more accessible cuts on the album, while still retaining the group’s core message of artistic integrity.
The Lost Tapes was well-received by fans of Lootpack and underground hip-hop, with many praising the album for its raw production, lyrical complexity, and insight into the group’s early development. While it may not have had the commercial impact of Soundpieces: Da Antidote!, the album is valued as a rare glimpse into the formative years of Madlib, Wildchild, and DJ Romes, capturing the spirit of a group that helped shape the underground West Coast hip-hop sound.
The album also serves as an important document in understanding the development of Madlib as one of hip-hop’s most influential producers. His work on The Lost Tapes hints at the eclectic, sample-heavy style that would later define his solo projects and collaborations, including Madvillain and Quasimoto.
Conclusion: A Gem for Underground Hip-Hop Fans
Lootpack – The Lost Tapes is a must-listen for fans of underground hip-hop, particularly those interested in the early work of Madlib and the development of the West Coast underground scene. The album’s raw, sample-driven production, intricate lyricism, and dedication to hip-hop culture make it a timeless snapshot of a pivotal era in hip-hop history.
For those who appreciate the art of lyricism, crate-digging production, and the authenticity of underground hip-hop, The Lost Tapes is a rewarding listen that captures Lootpack at their creative best, offering a glimpse into the foundations of what would become a legendary group in the world of hip-hop.
2LP Black Vinyl
Released from CDP Records 1996 Archives
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Innersoul
Interlude 1
Psyche Move
I Come Real With This Featuring – Kan Kick
Interlude 2
Situation
Get Whack Featuring – Declaime
Antidote to da Antidope Featuring – God’s Gift
Interlude 3
Attack of the Tupperware Puppets Featuring – Declaime, God’s Gift, Oh No
Interlude 4
Forever Beef Featuring – Medaphoar, Oh No
What ‘Cha Gotta Say? Featuring – Oh No
Interlude 5
Miss Deja Vu
I Declare War Featuring – Medaphoar, Oh No
Why Do We Go Out Like That? Featuring – Declaime
Make Your Ears Want to Bleed
Interlude 6
Female Request Line
Undisciplined Featuring – God’s Gift
Hip Hop