Elite tapes

More smooth sounds from Detroit’s crown prince of velvety soul jams.

Accentuates the lolloping Jamaican flex at Rodney Smith’s musical heart.

This could represent the greatest thinking man’s beat tape of all time.

Hackney rapper’s third album stumbles short of its great potential.

Vividly illustrates the intelligent evolution of domestic leftfield sounds.

This debut for XL is full of unashamed thug rap to cement Giggs’ rising status.

A splendid solo adventure from the multi-monikered OutKast rapper.

A record best judged with preconceptions cast aside and broad strokes accepted.

M.I.A.’s spectacular third album has much to offer an inquisitive and open mind.

Boasts a perfect, accessible sound for the distinctive vocals of a distinctive artist.