Soul Assassins 3: Death Valley

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In the last five years, Cypress Hill’s DJ Muggs has done over a dozen joint albums with the likes of Mach-Hommy, Rome Streetz, and CRIMEAPPLE, and in 2023, he teamed up with Madlib and Meyhem Lauren for the album <i>Champagne for Breakfast</i>. Still, the rapper/producer’s <i>Soul Assassins</i> compilations have always been special: They're a chance for him to bring in whatever MCs he wants to on his own terms. Previous installments included the likes of Mobb Deep, Goodie Mob, Dr. Dre, KRS-One, and Kool G Rap. But the first two of the series dropped in 1997 and 2000. <i>Soul Assassins 3: Death Valley</i> arrived accompanied by a film with director Jason Goldwatch (Pharrell, Kid Cudi, Action Bronson), dropping weeks later. Whether Muggs is working with established greats or lesser-known names, he always brings his A game—and the rappers return the favor with inspired performances of their own. CeeLo Green turned in a memorable verse with Goodie Mob on the original <i>Soul Assassins</i>’ “Decisions, Decisions,” and he returns for the haunting “Jokers Wild.” Scarface and Freddie Gibbs sound right at home over the ominous bells and plodding drums of “Street Made,” and “Sicilian Gold” is a perfectly luxurious backdrop for a sharp Ghostface Killah and Westside Gunn to show off their jewels and opulent wares. Boldy James (who makes three appearances on the album) gives vivid imagery of packing a Ford Escape with weight on “We Coming for the Safe,” and T.F comically refers to blood-splattered boots as “tie-dye Timbs” on the aptly titled “Shell Casings.” Slick Rick even tries out a double-time flow alongside Method Man on “Metropolis,” and “Dump On Em” places B-Real with Ice Cube and MC Ren for as satisfying a West Coast anthem as you'll hear in 2023. It's not just a list of stars, as compilations may seem. There are a variety of different vocal timbres here, and DJ Muggs has the beatmaking chops and decision-making necessary to to get the most out of each of them.

via Apple Music