Time is Illmatic

The story behind what's considered the best hip hop album ever made.
Karina Abadia
July 01, 2014

Overview

New York rapper Nas was just 20 when he made his 1994  album Illmatic, generally regarded as the best hip-hop album ever made. Two decades later, In One9's documentary Time is Illmatic Nas appears humbled by his huge success and is quick to acknowledge those who paved the way as well as those who didn't survive the mean streets of Queensbridge, the largest public housing development in North America.

The film makers focus here more on the album's conception than on Nas' more recent output or  the broader musical context of the times. His father Olu Dara makes a welcome appearance as does his brother Jabari "Jungle" Jones who provides plenty of laughs.  An evocative trip down memory lane for hip hop fans.

Click here to see more of our picks at the NZ International Film Festival 2014.

Information

Tap and select Add to Home Screen to access Concrete Playground easily next time. x