Tougher Than Leather (Profile, 1988) by Run D.M.C.

Raising Hell is unquestionably a flawless album with tremendous cultural significance.  However, because of its success, its follow up was slept on.  I love Tougher Than Leather.  I think that use of  breakbeats in the production prevented them from getting repetitive with heavy drum machines. "Beats to the Rhyme" is ahead of its time. And of the millions of times James Brown's "Funky Drummer" has been sampled, "Run's House" is my favorite use of that over-used track.  Rest in Peace Jam Master Jay.  {Writer's note: Because of Internet connection issues, I was unable to post yesterday, 04/02, and so I am posting twice today on 04/03.  I apologize for any confusion and/or inconvenience.}