Dungeon Family - The very best of three of the worlds greatest artists: Cee-lo, Andre Benjamin and Big Boi. The rest of the Family (does them a disservice to call them 'the rest') is also top notch.

Black Eyed Peas - Not exactly hardcore, but fun? Yep! This was their make or break album and it shows Will I Am at the peak of his talent. Look for the original release with 'Let's Get Retarded' on.

Anti Pop Consortium - Something from the experimental side of Hip Hop. Dislocated, joyous and eclectic. Mega, the song, has gone into every portable music device i've ever owned.

Saul Williams - This follow up to Amethyst Rock Star is darker, edgier but more streamlined. His debut was more stream of conciousness, this is a direct-hit bunker buster.

MC Solaar - How can something in a foreign language be so much better than 99.9% of US (c)Rap? Easy, when you're as talented as Claude M'Barali. Smooth, polished and professional Hip Hop.

Kanye West - A popular choice, but when it's the best there is, how can it be ignored? Just buy it.

Matisyahu - Bored with the bling? Then check this out, a real breath of fresh air in the Hip Hop scene. Smooth, heartfelt rapping over a chilled reggae backbeat. Gorgeous.

Cee-lo - His work with Goodie Mob, Dungeon Family, Outkast and Gnarls Barkley should speak of his pedigree. This has some of the best from his solo albums (where's 'Super Chicken'???) Soulful Hip Hop.

Lords Of The Underground - Superb old school rapping over some exquisite, funky beats that really get under your skin (in a good way!) Bounce, flow, humour and better than most that came after.

Gym Class Heroes - A nice fresh breath of air; a live Hip Hop collective that's not to cool to tour with the metal kids. A bit Eminem in places only much cooler.

Lupe Fiasco - Socially aware and great fun. The future is in safe hands.