The argument of who is underrated and overrated in the world of Hip-hop always leads to some strongly held opinions. The overrated discussion can go on forever, debating whether or not this artist should be on the cover of this magazine or if that artist should garner the amount of praise they receive. In terms of underrated, hip-hop seems to be on a united front. When discussing acts that deserve more praise, The Pharcyde are always at the top of the list. The California four-piece seemingly reinvented artsy rap and formed melodies through natural chemistry and sharp cadences.
Originally formed in 1989, The Pharcyde quickly established themselves as more than another West Coast hip-hop group. Made up of Fatlip, Slimkid3, Bootie Brown, and Imani, along with producer/DJ J-Swift, the group released their acclaimed debut, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde in 1992. The LP placed the group in the spotlight due to its fun-love melodies and comedic lyricism. Fast forward to 1995 and The Pharcyde links up with arguably the best producer hip-hop has ever seen: J Dilla. The incomparable MPC conductor added a dark, syncopated sound to The Pharcyde’s bright sonic playground. Dilla was brought in to help produce the group’s sophomore effort, 1995’s Labcabincalifornia.
The most acclaimed and well-known collaboration between Pharcyde and Dilla is their hit “Runnin’”. The murky instrumental is dotted with spurts of vocal samples and one of the cleanest drum patterns ever recorded. This juxtaposed Pharcyde’s cartoonish flows and animated melodies perfectly, creating one-of-a-kind textures that illuminate whatever room they enter. In our Golden Age video of the week, the room is a European concert hall in 1996. The Pharcyde had just released their sophomore effort to mixed reviews and conflict had arisen in the group. Fatlip had begun arguing with other members and vice versa, creating a combative recording environment that might’ve contributed to the darker tones of Labcabincalifornia.
Regardless, there is no tension in this performance. You can see the natural chemistry between the members as their harmonies penetrate time and circle the room like a flock of tropical birds. Check out The Pharcyde performing their hit “Runnin’” back in 1996 below.
