Big Willie Style (Columbia, 1997) by Will Smith

Will Smith was on the verge of movie superstardom when this album was released, but this project proved that the Fresh Prince could still rap.  With top-notch production from the likes of L.E.S., Trackmasters, and Jazzy Jeff, Mr. Smith created a great upbeat album.  The singles are great, but even some of the deep cuts here are great too such as "Candy" and "Chasing Forever."  Nas gets major props as well for ghostwriting some of Big Willie Style's standout material.

Looks Like a Job For... (Cold Chillin', 1993) by Big Daddy Kane

In my opinion, this is one of the most underrated hip hop albums ever.  Kane's beat selection makes a smooth transition into the 90s with the assistance of the then unknown Trackmasters production duo.  "Very Special" is a decent love song, and makes up for the stumbles that Prince of Darkness presented with its more soulful approach to the same subject matter.  The title track and "How U Get a Record Deal?" present a very strong opening to the album and "N****z Never Learn" has one of Kane's most incredible flows at the end of the record. When the beat drops out and one of the G.O.A.T. delivers an a cappella rhyme, it is nothing short of astounding.