Albert Einstein - with Prodigy (2013)

Let’s start with Albert Einstein, the 2013 joint from The Alchemist and Prodigy of Mobb Deep fame. This album is straight-up East Coast grime, a testament to both Alchemist’s production prowess and Prodigy’s raw lyricism.

After the intro, “IMDKV” sets the tone with its eerie, minimalist beat. Alchemist lays down a haunting piano loop and lets Prodigy’s menacing flow do the heavy lifting. These two are operating on another level. Alchemist’s beats on this joint are grimy as hell. He’s not trying to make radio hits – he’s crafting the perfect hard-hitting backdrops for Prodigy’s street narratives. Tracks like “Death Sentence” and “Bear Meat” are so dark and atmospheric, you might need a flashlight to find your way through.

But don’t think it’s all doom and gloom. “Breeze” shows Alchemist can flip a smooth sample when he wants to, giving Prodigy space to reminisce about the good old days. Prodigy’s rhymes are sharp as ever. He’s painting vivid pictures of street life, dropping knowledge, and reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the greatest to ever do it.

The guest spots are on point too. Raekwon and Prodigy’s Mobb Deep partner Havoc show up on “R.I.P.” and it’s like a meeting of New York rap royalty. Action Bronson brings his unique flavor to “The One,” proving he can hang with the vets, and the unbeatable Roc Marciano adds value to “Death Sentence”.

Albert Einstein is a mood. It’s the sound of two Hip Hop veterans at the top of their game, crafting a project that’s both nostalgic and fresh. For anyone who loves that raw, uncut New York Hip Hop, this LP is essential listening. Alchemist and Prodigy came through with a classic that’ll have your neck snapping from start to finish.

My 1st Chemistry Set - with Boldy James (2013)

My 1st Chemistry Set is the first full-length collaboration between Detroit emcee Boldy James and The Alchemist. Released in 2013, this project is a hidden gem within Hip-Hop’s expansive landscape, spotlighting The Alchemist’s production prowess and Boldy James’ intricate lyricism.

From the get-go, The Alchemist shows off what he’s about with his gritty, atmospheric beats that transport listeners to the heart of New York’s grittiest corners, despite James’ Detroit and his own L.A. roots. Alchemist crafts a sonic landscape that complements Boldy James’ deadpan delivery and complex narratives. With his production, Alc creates mood and tension, echoing the golden era of Queensbridge while injecting a fresh, contemporary edge.

Boldy James brings his A-game, delivering slang-laden verses with a laid-back, but commanding presence. His style draws comparisons to Mobb Deep’s Prodigy, yet he stands out with his own brand of clever lyricism and unexpected humor. Tracks like “Moochie” and “Reform School” exemplify his ability to weave complex tales of street life with sharp, witty observations. James’ delivery is understated but powerful, enhancing the impact of his punchlines and making each spin of this LP a discovery of new layers and meanings.

The sonic cohesion of the album is proof of The Alchemist’s ability to create a unified sound that elevates the entire project. His knack for finding and flipping obscure samples into hard-hitting beats is on full display, making My 1st Chemistry Set an Alchemist must-listen.

While often overshadowed by their later collaborations, My 1st Chemistry Set deserves recognition as a solid debut that introduced Boldy James as a formidable lyricist and solidified Alchemist as a top-tier beat crafter. The album’s authenticity and rawness offer a glimpse into street life without sacrificing linguistic creativity.

With My 1st Chemistry Set, The Alchemist and Boldy James created an impactful project highlighting what can be achieved when a talented emcee and a masterful producer come together.

Lord Steppington - Step Brothers (with Evidence) (2014)

Lord Steppington is the 2014 collaboration between The Alchemist and Evidence, operating under the moniker Step Brothers. This album is like a fine wine tasting hosted by two Hip Hop sommeliers – complex, layered, and gets better with each sip.

Alchemist’s production on this joint is straight-up sonic alchemy. He’s cooking up beats that are both gritty and sophisticated, creating an ideal soundscape for Evidence’s laid-back flow and his own surprisingly competent rhymes. From the hypnotic loops on “More Wins” to the grimy vibes of “Step Masters,” Alchemist proves why he’s one of the most sought-after producers in the game.

The chemistry between Alchemist and Evidence is palpable. It’s like watching two veteran jazz musicians trading solos, each playing off the other’s strengths. Tracks like “Mums in the Garage” and “See the Rich Man Play” display their ability to craft quirky, off-kilter Hip Hop that still knocks.

The guest list is stacked with heavy hitters. Action Bronson brings his larger-than-life persona to “Mums in the Garage,” Roc Marciano drops jewels on “See the Rich Man Play,” and Styles P adds his gritty flow to “No Hesitation.”

At 14 tracks, Lord Steppington is a full meal with no empty calories. Each beat is meticulously crafted, rewarding repeated listens with new details and nuances. Alchemist’s sample choices and drum programming on cuts like “Tomorrow” and “Banging Sound” are masterclasses in Hip Hop production.

This album is proof of Alchemist’s versatility as both producer and emcee while giving Evidence room to flex outside his Dilated Peoples work. Fans of uncompromising Hip Hop with a left-field twist will love Lord Steppington. Pour yourself a glass of the good stuff and get lost in the world of the Step Brothers.

The Silent Partner - with Havoc (2016)

The Silent Partner is the 2016 collab between The Alchemist and Mobb Deep’s Havoc. This album is like a late-night stroll through Queensbridge – dark, gritty, and full of hidden dangers. Alchemist’s production on this album is pure New York noir. The sinister piano on “Buck 50s & Bullet Wounds” and the ghostly choir samples on “Hear Me Now” show Alchemist’s knack for setting a mood.

The synergy between Alchemist and Havoc is evident throughout, with Havoc’s hardened flow meshing perfectly with Alchemist’s bass-heavy beats. Tracks like “Maintain (F*** How You Feel)” and “Out The Frame” demonstrate how these two bring out the best in each other.

Guest spots are sparse but impactful. Prodigy drops by for some gun talk on “The Gun Holds a Drum,” Method Man brings that Wu-Tang flavor to “Buck ’50s & Bullet Wounds,” and Cormega closes things out with some introspective bars on “Hear Me Now.”

At 11 tracks, this album is lean and mean. Each beat is crafted with care, revealing new layers with every spin. Alchemist’s sample choices and drum programming on cuts like “Smooth Ride Music” are masterful, proving why he’s one of the most respected producers in the game.

Havoc always was a producer first and rapper second, and even if it’s clear his emcee skills are not on the level of his Mobb Deep partner Prodigy, he holds his own here. The Alchemist brings out the best in him, resulting in a fusion of producer and emcee that feels both classic and contemporary, a project that’ll have you reaching for your Timbs and Carhartt jacket.

With The Silent Partner, Alchemist and Havoc have cooked up a project that grabs your attention from the jump and doesn’t let go. Turn off the lights, crank up the volume, and get lost in the Queensbridge state of mind.

The Price Of Tea In China - with Boldy James (2020)

Let’s dive into The Price Of Tea In China, the 2020 link-up between The Alchemist and Detroit’s Boldy James. This album hits like a shot of top-shelf whiskey – smooth going down, but with a kick that’ll keep you coming back.

Alchemist’s production on this joint is top-notch. He’s conjuring up beats that are gritty and ethereal, laying down the ideal backdrop for Boldy’s street-level storytelling. The eerie strings on “Carruth” and the smoky jazz loops on “Slow Roll” highlight Alchemist’s versatility and his knack for setting a vibe.

The chemistry between Alchemist and Boldy is off the charts. It’s like they’re operating on the same brainwave, with Boldy’s ice-cold delivery meshing perfectly with Alchemist’s moody soundscapes. Cuts like “Giant Slide” and “Scrape the Bowl” prove just how in sync these two artists are. While the guest spots are few, they all bring heat. Freddie Gibbs, Benny the Butcher, Vince Staples, and Evidence each drop in to spice things up without stealing the show from the main duo.

Clocking in at 12 tracks, this album is all muscle, no flab. Each beat is crafted with surgical precision, revealing new layers with every spin. Alchemist’s sample flips and drum programming on joints like “Run-Ins” and “Pinto” are straight-up production clinics.

The Price Of Tea In China proves Alchemist’s ability to tailor his sound to bring out the best in his collaborators. It’s a fusion of producer and emcee that feels both timeless and firmly rooted in the now. With this album, Alchemist and Boldy have cooked up a modern classic that grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. Brew yourself a cup and get lost in the world they’ve created.

Alfredo - with Freddie Gibbs (2020)

Alfredo is The Alchemist’s 2020 collaboration with Indiana phenomenon Freddie Gibbs that had Hip Hop heads nodding worldwide. This album is like its artsy album cover: a fine Italian dish – rich, flavorful, and leaving you wanting more.

Alchemist’s production on this joint is masterful. He’s cooking up beats that are both nostalgic and fresh, creating the perfect backdrop for Gibbs’ raw lyricism. From the smooth jazz samples on “1985” to the gritty, cinematic vibes of “Scottie Beam,” Alchemist proves why he’s one of the most versatile producers in the game.

The chemistry between Alchemist and Gibbs is undeniable. It’s like they’re reading each other’s minds, with Gibbs’ flow perfectly complementing Alchemist’s production. On tracks like “God Is Perfect” and “Frank Lucas,” the synergy between beat and rhyme is so tight it’s almost seamless.

Gibbs and Alchemist keep the guest list select, but each feature brings heat. Rick Ross shows up on “Scottie Beam,” Benny the Butcher drops by for “Frank Lucas,” Conway the Machine adds fire to “Babies & Fools,”, and Tyler, The Creator adds his unique flavor to “Something to Rap About.” But make no mistake – this is Gibbs’ show, and Alchemist gives him plenty of room to shine.

At just 35 minutes, Alfredo is a lean, mean project with all killer and no filler. Alchemist’s beats are so rich and layered that each listen reveals new details. The way he flips samples on tracks like “Baby $hit” and “Skinny Suge” is nothing short of alchemical magic.

Alfredo is a shining example of Uncle Al’s ability to bring out the best in the artists he works with. For anyone who appreciates that raw, uncut Hip Hop, Alfredo is a must-have. Alchemist and Gibbs came through with a classic that’ll have your head nodding from start to finish. Buon appetito!

Haram - with Armand Hammer (2021)

Haram is the 2021 collaboration between Armand Hammer and The Alchemist. Armand Hammer, consisting of billy woods and ELUCID, has been a cornerstone of experimental Hip Hop for years, and Haram sees them joining forces with one of the most sought-after producers in the game.

The Alchemist’s contribution to Haram is significant. With his ability to craft compelling and atmospheric beats, Alchemist provides the perfect sonic landscape for billy woods and ELUCID’s cryptic and thought-provoking lyrics. His production on Haram is both inviting and unsettling, drawing listeners in while challenging them to think deeply about the themes explored in the album.

From the opening track “Sir Benni Miles,” Alchemist sets the tone with a haunting, almost cinematic instrumental that complements the duo’s dense lyrical content. The album’s title, Haram, an Islamic term meaning “forbidden,” sets the stage for a deep dive into taboos and societal critiques, handled with the pair’s signature poetic complexity.

One of the standout tracks, “Falling Out the Sky,” features Earl Sweatshirt and is a perfect example of the synergy between Alchemist’s beats and Armand Hammer’s lyrical prowess. The song’s dreamlike quality is matched by vivid imagery and introspective verses, making it one of the highlights of the album.

Other tracks like “Wishing Bad” and “Chicharonnes” further illustrate The Alchemist’s ability to create dark, moody backdrops that elevate the duo’s avant-garde rhyming. On “Chicharonnes,” billy woods and Quelle Chris deliver a chilling critique of police violence and systemic racism over a bone-chilling instrumental. The closing track, “Stonefruit,” features an incredible final verse from billy woods, leaves a lasting impression. The Alchemist’s production makes Haram accessible while retaining the experimental edge that Armand Hammer is known for. Every track is meticulously crafted, with no filler to be found.

In Haram, The Alchemist has created a masterpiece that not only stands out in his discography but also enhances the legacy of Armand Hammer. The album is a powerful statement on the duo’s place in contemporary Hip Hop and confirms The Alchemist’s reputation as one of the best producers in the game.

Bo Jackson - with Boldy James (2021)

Let’s talk about Bo Jackson, the third collaborative full-length project from Boldy James and elite producer The Alchemist. Following their underrated debut collaboration My 1st Chemistry Set (2013) and the highly acclaimed The Price Of Tea In China (2020), Boldy and Alchemist have teamed up once again, and Bo Jackson is the crowning jewel of their partnership.

The Alchemist, already having delivered stellar production for Armand Hammer’s Haram earlier in 2021, also brings his A-game to Bo Jackson. His beats are rich and atmospheric, perfect for Boldy James’s cold flow and vivid street narratives. The album kicks off with “Double Hockey Sticks,” setting the tone with a haunting boom-bap instrumental that hooks you from the start. From there, the tracklist maintains an impressive level of quality throughout.

One of the album’s strengths is its consistency. Tracks like “Brickmille To Montana,” “E.P.M.D.,” “Photographic Memories,” “First 48 Freestyle,” “Illegal Search & Seizure,” “Fake Flowers,” and “3rd Person” all stand out, but there aren’t any weak links here. Each song flows seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive listening experience that’s hard to pull away from.

The guest features on Bo Jackson are carefully selected and perfectly executed. Benny The Butcher, Roc Marciano, Earl Sweatshirt, Stove God Cooks, Curren$y, and Freddie Gibbs all bring their unique styles to the table, adding extra flavor to Alchemist’s already captivating instrumentals. Their contributions enhance the album’s depth without overshadowing Boldy’s standout performance.

Boldy James proves once again why he’s one of modern Hip Hop’s MVPs, following up his stellar 2020 with another impressive showing. The Alchemist continues his winning streak too, further cementing his status as one of the best producers in the game.

Bo Jackson is one of the best Hip Hop albums released in 2021. It’s a masterclass in production and lyricism, with dope beats and compelling rhymes that’ll keep you coming back for more. This album is a modern classic that showcases the best of both Boldy James and The Alchemist.

The Elephant Man's Bones - with Roc Marciano (2022)

Alright, let’s dive into The Elephant Man’s Bones, the long-awaited 2022 full-length collaboration between Roc Marciano and The Alchemist. This project is like stepping into a smoky jazz club with an underground Hip Hop vibe – moody, gritty, and dripping with style. From the moment you hit play, “Rubber Hand Grip” pulls you into a world where every beat is meticulously crafted, and every bar is razor-sharp.

Roc Marciano, a Hip Hop MVP since around 2010, reinvigorated the mafioso subgenre and pioneered atmospheric, gritty lo-fi beats. His work with Flipmode Squad and The U.N. laid the foundation for his unique style. The Elephant Man’s Bones is his ninth solo album. With Marcberg (2010) and Reloaded (2012) it is among his best, with Alchemist’s production elevating it to another level.

Alchemist is in top form on this album, showcasing his knack for creating atmospheric beats that perfectly complement Roc Marciano’s laid-back yet commanding flow. He digs deep into his bag of tricks, pulling out obscure samples and layering them with haunting melodies and subtle drum patterns. The result is a soundscape that’s as dense and textured as it is smooth and accessible, with the hard-hitting “Bubble Bath” as a particular highlight.

The album features a well-curated roster of guest appearances, including Action Bronson, Boldy James, Ice-T, and Knowledge The Pirate. Each artist adds their unique flavor without overshadowing the main attraction, but Ice-T’s storytelling on “The Horns Of Abraxas” and Boldy James’s gritty verses on “El Dorado” enhance the album’s depth and variety.

The Elephant Man’s Bones is super cohesive. Every track flows into the next, creating an immersive experience that’s hard to step away from. The production is consistently top-notch, with Alchemist pushing the boundaries of his sound while staying true to his roots. Alchemist’s flawless production and Roc Marciano’s illustrious wordplay combine to create a hypnotizing cinematic experience. For anyone looking to understand why The Alchemist is revered as one of the best in the game, this album is a perfect starting point.

The Great Escape - with Larry June (2023)

Alright, let’s finish this piece with The Great Escape, the 2023 collab between The Alchemist and San Francisco’s smoothest, Larry June. This joint is like a sunny day cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway – laid-back, funky, and cool as ice.

From the jump, “Turkish Cotton” sets the vibe with its breezy guitar licks and head-nodding drums. Alchemist is in rare form here, crafting beats that are both nostalgic and fresh. He’s digging deep in the crates, pulling out samples that’ll have you feeling like you’re floating on a cloud.

Larry June’s flow is butter-smooth throughout the album. He’s not trying to be the hardest rapper out – he’s just effortlessly cool, dropping gems about financial literacy and healthy living over Alchemist’s lush production. But don’t think it’s all chill vibes. Tracks like “89 Earthquake” show Alchemist can still bring the heat when he wants to. That beat is so funky it should come with a warning label.

Action Bronson pops up on “Wasabi Caliente,” bringing his larger-than-life personality to the track, and Evidence adds his famed slow flow to “Left No Evidence”.  And Boldy James? His appearance on “Art Talk” is like the cherry on top of a very smooth sundae.

The Great Escape presents the sound of two artists at the top of their game, creating a vibe that’s perfect for sunny days and good times. For anyone looking for a smooth, West Coast vibe with an East Coast twist, The Great Escape is an unmissable piece of music. It’s the kind of album that’ll have you reaching for a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and dreaming of better days. Good job, Uncle Al and Larry!

Bonus Mention: Voir Dire - with Earl Sweatshirt (2023)

While our focus remains on full-length albums, Voir Dire demands attention as a compact little masterpiece. This collaboration between Earl Sweatshirt and The Alchemist distills their combined talents into a potent, albeit brief, listening experience.

Clocking in at well under 30 minutes, Voir Dire straddles the line between EP and album. Yet its impact far exceeds its runtime. The Alchemist’s production creates a hazy, off-kilter soundscape that perfectly complements Earl’s introspective bars. Each beat feels meticulously crafted, providing ample space for Earl’s lyrical acrobatics.

Earl Sweatshirt’s growth as an artist is on full display here. His verses are dense with wordplay and personal reflection, delivered in his signature laid-back flow. The project’s brevity seems to have focused his writing, resulting in some of his most concise and impactful lines to date. The project’s cohesion is remarkable, feeling less like a collection of songs and more like a single, evolving piece of music.

While Voir Dire may not qualify as a full album in the traditional sense, its quality and replay value make it a must-have for fans of both artists and Hip Hop enthusiasts in general.

As we wrap up this dive into The Alchemist’s catalog, it’s clear why he’s considered one of Hip Hop’s production elite. From his early days crafting street anthems to his more recent drumless works, Alchemist has consistently delivered quality beats that push artists to their lyrical best.

Whether he’s flipping obscure samples or crafting minimalist beats, Alchemist’s production always hits hard and creates a distinct atmosphere. These ten albums we’ve explored are just the tip of the iceberg of his production work. But they showcase Alchemist’s range, his ear for talent, and his dedication to the craft of beatmaking. Each project represents a different facet of his musical genius.

For aspiring producers and Hip Hop fans alike, studying Alchemist’s work is a masterclass in the art of production. His influence on the sound of Hip Hop is unquestionable, and his legacy is secure as one of the greatest producers in the game.