9/3 til Infinity: Five Hieroglyphics Albums That Shaped Alternative Hip Hop
Souls of Mischief’s debut single and album, 93 til Infinity predicted the Hieroglyphics’ staying power. The Oakland-based Hip Hop crew features Souls of Mischief, Del the Funky Homosapien, Casual, Domino, Pep Love, DJ Toure and previously Snupe, Jay Biz, and Mike G. It was inevitable that the Bay Area, home of trailblazing Rock, Funk, and Soul musicians would develop an alternative Hip Hop scene that would set a standard for alternative Hip Hop scenes. Many of the artists around them rapped about surviving and overcoming, unafraid of telling the most gruesome and chilling stories.
They opted for a jazzy, lyrically intricate vibe similar to Freestyle Fellowship and Jungle Brothers. Diving into their catalogs, you will quickly discover that the content didn’t shy away from boasting, violence, and dropping knowledge like their peers, it was just envisioned and executed differently. Further distinguishing themselves, most artists are skilled rappers and producers, helping anywhere they could. The collaborative spirit and chemistry continues today as they regularly work together and annually host Hiero Day.
