granted a mixtape is also used as a code word to dial down expectations, like 'gigantic vol. 0,' which in itself is full of gems but wasn't crafted like your proper album, but i was referring more to rappers who make a disc ("tape") full of songs with original production. i think calling it a mixtape is a way to get people to think, oh, this won't be some compromised bullshit major label album, this is the "real" them.