Villa Manifesto

"Detroit rap collective Slum Village seized the underground hip hop scene in the 90's with their first album, Fantastic Vol. 1. The trio, which then consisted of Baatin, T3, and Jay Dee, united with some of hip hop's supreme emcees such as Busta Rhymes, A Tribe Called Quest and Pete Rock. In 2001, Jay Dee, also known as J Dilla, left the group to pursue a solo career, and ELZhi was introduced. A couple of years later, Baatin fell ill while touring in France and departed. T3 and ELZhi went on to record music together under the reputable moniker, Slum Village, before tragedy struck. In February 2006, after being diagnosed with TIP and lupus, Jay Dee passed away. Two years later, T3 announced that Baatin would be returning to the group and collaborating on a new Slum Village album. Unfortunately, tragedy struck a second time, this time taking the life of Baatin in July of 2009. Through the group's misfortune, Slum Village remains. Villa Manifesto, the latest installment, showcases all past, present and future members at their lyrical best. Judging from the Buzz that was created from a digital EP release in late 2009, this LP will take its place as a classic in the realm of authentic hip hop." - Rlslog.net