14 years ago today, Minnesota rap duo Eyedea & Abilities released their debut LP

On this day, a Saint Paul MC by the name of Eyedea and producer DJ Abilities took their place in hip hop history with their first studio album, First Born. This album was the first union of these two artists who each both had successful underground careers prior to their collaboration. Eyedea made a name for himself in the underground battle rap circuit with a victory at the Blaze Battle, which got some shine on HBO in 2000. DJ Abilities was a Midwest underground heavy-hitter and had won two DMC awards before his linking up with Eyedea. In 2001 the two got together under Rhymesayers Entertainment and began their journey as a collective.

First Born was ridiculously ahead of its time. Whether it was the anti-industry lyricism or the electronic/punk rock influenced production that set it apart is up for discussion, what is for sure is that nothing else in 2001 sounded much like it. In an era where greats like Nas, OutKast, and Jay-Z were dropping what would become classics, this Midwest rap tandem was still able to find a way to crank out a different sound. Although slept on, this project holds a place in the hearts of hip hop heads and record shop crate diggers everywhere.
There may not be any “smash hit” singles on this project but that doesn’t mean it should be overlooked. The single released from this album, “Blindly Firing”, is one that any and all hip hop lovers should take the time to listen to. A few other stand-out tracks are “Music Music” and “Liquid Sovereignty”.

Although the group disbanded upon the death of Eyedea on October 16th, 2010, there place in the underground rap movement and this album will always be remembered as an influential part of hip hop history. Peace.

-Kiah Fields