I know many like the debut better, but to me, there is something about The Main Ingredient.

Illmatic can easily be number 1, because Nas on Memory Lane is MCing at it's finest, but that has been listed.

ATLiens is a personal favorite for many reason and I also see reasons for Aquemini.

Midnight Marauders is flawless as well.

Liquid Swords and Cuban Linx are right there.

I feel The Infamous deserves a mention.

I started listening heavy to hip-hop in 93, so I'm sure older albums are valid contenders for older heads.

but production-wise, The Main Ingredient is incredible from top to bottom to me.

that album IS hip-hop in my opinion.

the instrumental interludes.

the scratches incorporated.

the layered production.

the balance between CL and Pete.

I can listen to this album ALL DAY and it never gets old.