OutKast

Although splintering into two distinct personalities was questionable at best, there is still enough of something for anyone looking back or forward in the minor rap revolution this group single-handedly spearheaded. Obviously I gravitate towards the distinct flavors Andre3000 pursued on his sometimes over-labored, sometimes undercooked effort. When the conscious creative strain is not apparent however, TLB still stands as a singular piece of hip-hop influenced experimentation. Big Boi nicely compliments Dre's outlandish persona with the focus adhering to more straight ahead southern rap with enough stand out tracks to warrant the Outkast label.

This is not a review of the album(s) itself but rather of Amazon's misdirected links to this album.

Unless Amazon has changed it since I complained, this is the edited version of the albums. I started at the Explicit lyrics CD page and followed the link to download the mp3 album _from the explicit lyrics CD page_ and only after I downloaded the mp3 album did I find out it was the edited version.

I emailed Amazon and they didn't even do me the courtesy of a response to tell me to stuff it. This is just one problem in a long line I've had with Amazon in the last few months. They are quickly losing all my business because they aren't even making good on their offers without twisting their arms.

Anyway, I expect this review to be removed by Amazon. Just make sure what you're getting before downloading. Make sure it says Explicit Lyrics if that's what you want even if that was the link you thought you followed, cause this ain't it.

I remember this album when I was in the 11th grade. I play this album thoroughly. They have taken a bold step forward by releasing an unprecedented dual CD containing their own musical statements. On The Love Below, Andre 3000 used a musical canvas compiled of funk, rock, techno, and straight-ahead jazz to explore the nexus between love and lust. Big Boi also had musical suprises up his sleeve. They already reaffirm their genius by adding another great album to their catalog. This album has been certified 9x Platinum. Remember, this was 2003.

I am a die-hard Outkast fan since I first heard SouthernPlayalistic...and when I heard that they were dropping a double, I had to get it. It's an amazing combination of two distinctively different artists which happen to complement each other. Notable track for me would include:

Vibrate
A life in the Day of Benjamin Andre
Spread
Dracula's Wedding
Reset
Unhappy
Ghetto Musick
Knowing

But to be honest, each track is amazing in its own way.

Speakerboxx is full of trademark Big Boi creative southern message with a dope beat and a message.
The love below is full of trademark Andre 3000 originality, Soul and honesty.


Its a win-win.

I think it's safe to say this is one of the most ambitious projects in hip-hop history. It's a double-album, which has done before, but it's essentially two solo albums: Speakerboxx would be Big Boi's, and The Love Below would be Andre's. I'm sure that has been done before as well, but how about this for you: this is The White Album (because it's two solo projects merged into one, as was the Beatles' world-famous double - come on, George and Ringo had five songs between them. It's a John v. Paul thing); Songs in the Key of Life (in that even the lesser songs add to the album's scope and size, and like Songs it sure has scope and size); Sign o' the Times (in that it's uncompromisingly eccentric); and London Calling (in that there are many clean breaks from OutKast and hip-hop tradition here) all rolled into one.
Since this is pretty much two separate solo albums in one, I'm treating this review as a two-in-one deal. I'll start with Big Boi's disc, since it's the first one. Big Boi continues to push the boundaries of rap music, incorporating a jazzy big-band horn section to the fantastic single "Bowtie," using a Patti LaBelle sample in an innovative way rather than just taking it and rapping over it on "GhettoMusick," and incorporating a '70s soul sound and EWF-style backing vocals into the brilliant smash hit "The Way You Move" (featuring Sleepy Brown, who has a pleasant Marvin Gaye-like croon). If this is the future of hip-hop, then you can probably expect to see my interest in the genre skyrocket in the next few years. Then again, with "Ridin'" still getting airplay, maybe it's just false optimism after all. But back to Big Boi, he's proving himself as the second-coolest man in rap today, even succeeding tremendously with mariachi horns with the funky "Rooster" and with horror-movie synthesizers and wah-wahs in the same song on "Bust". Of course, it wouldn't make an ounce of sense to discuss every song on am album this long in anything that resembles depth, but let me just say this: the OutKast-business-as-usual stuff ("War," "Church," with cool synthesizer goodness, "Reset") is roughly as successful as the experimental work. And "Tomb of the Boom" rules. I don't know where they got those synthesizers, but I like them. The interludes are annoying, and I'm not big on either "Knowing" or "The Last Call" (it's got Lil John on it, and he's representative of the type of rap I do not like at all). But they even make the Jay-Z feature "Flip Flop Rock" succeed, and I'm not a Jay-Z fan either. The Big Boi disc is about as good as my favorite OutKast album, ATLiens, and that's saying a lot. And the lyrics are pretty socially conscience mostly, with little of the sex-god posing most rappers do today. That makes me happy.
Now, Andre's disc is just weird. But it's a good type of weird. He's really coming off as Prince for the 21st Century, with his eccentric mix of funk, jazz, old-school R&B, rock, psychedelia, and pretty much everything but rap. It's like he's trying to hack his fan base off and just do his thing, which is another Princely thing to do. His album is a conceptual one about life and love (thus furthering the Songs in the Key of Life comparison), and it's one of those cases where I actually think the interludes are funny, especially "God". It cracks me up! "You're the best, God!" However, despite the abundance of good songs on this album, it's just too long, too sprawling, too stuffed-to-the-cracks to really succeed. It's good, but it cannot compare to even SpeakerBoxxx, let alone its obvious model, the aforementioned Songs in the Key of Life. Dre's lounge-jazz stuff (title track; "Love Hater") is pretty bad, and there are a few too many songs near the end that are definitely weak: "Pink and Blue," "Love in War," "Behold a Lady," "She's Alive," "Dracula's Wedding," his weird instrumental cover of "My Favorite Things" that's based on Trane's version but set to a hip-hop beat, "Take off Your Cool," the unlistenable "Vibrate," and the directionless rap "Life in the Day of Andre 3000". All of these songs in a row give me the feeling that this album will never end. However, some of it's still brilliant: the Paisley Park-esque psychedelia of "Prototype" is gorgeous, melodic genius; "Hey Ya!" is one of the catchiest, most invigorating hit singles of our decade, and the funk-blues-jazz "Roses" might be my favorite OutKast song ever, despite the slightly misogynistic lyrics (at least when taken out of context - in the context of the album and its concept, it sounds like the aftermath of a messy divorce) - the organ hook rules, the chorus is immortal stuff, and I find the part where Dre tries to squeeze as many words into a single phrase as possible funny, "Valentine's Day" is first-rate funk, the intentionally sexually ambiguous "She Lives in My Lap" uses a sped-up vocal (a tribute to Camille, perhaps?) to great effect, "Spread," the closest thing to a standard rap song here, is great. My advice? Just tune out after "Roses" ends, because you won't be missing loads.
Basically, Big Boi's disc is excellent, and Andre's is good but uneven. It's a good album, but it's way too long for its own good. And get it first - OutKast's other four albums are much better.

I remember this album when I was in the 8th grade. I Played this album out. It was good. This is an album that will only add to the accolades of this group. They did new things like taking different rhythms, different tempos, to reflect what is going on with our world. The music has an urgent feel. They were improving themselves as musicians and artists. This album has been certified 4x Platinum. Remember, this was 2000.

this was a ok outkast album its not the best the best song on the album is bombs over baghdad because the singer raps HELLA FAST!!!
STANKONIA

the best outkast album is ATLenis

Outkast with a K... Some real good music on here, some classic stuff...so fresh, so clean with all the dirty south hits like gasoline and B.O.B...Humble as a Mumble in the jungles of shouts and screams.... that's the way erika sang it so I guess I've got to reroute my dreams...some b-real on the Xplosion of dirty beat that just makes you want to get some more outkast...

The fourth album by this Georgian rap duo is widely considered to be about as good as alternative hip-hop gets. And you know what? Once you get past the interludes (the worst of which being the forty-second "I'm Cool", pretty much that title phrase on repeat. Fun...), I more or less agree. Like the similarly-minded Gorillaz, they know how to use headphone stuff to good effect - if it weren't for the quirky sounds, "So Fresh, So Clean" would be just another R&B ballad, but with them it's elevated to a pretty high level. And speaking of ballads, come on, who doesn't like "Miss Jackson"? I mean, I'm not even a rap fan, but I know a good song when I hear it, and that's one right there. But it's not just ballads: They really rock the house on the Public Enemy-influenced "Gasoline Dreams", a dense mix of samples; "Spaghetti Junction" is very funky; the nonstop rant "B.O.B." (that stands for "Bombs Over Baghdad") is downright hyperactive, but that's a great rhythm track it's got behind it. And just for variety's sake, they get all spacey and such on the psychedelic "I'll Call Before I Come" - think "Pink Floyd hip-hop", if that's even possible - and even include a haunted-house harpsichord on "Xplosion", as well as adding African rhythms to "Humble Mumble". Not all of it is great - I can safely say I do not like "We Luv Dees Hoes" (isn't OutKast supposed to be the alternative to stuff like that?); the noise attack "?"; or clichéd tracks like "Gangsta S***" or "Red Velvet". And even those are redeemed by the near-heartbreaking "Toilet Tisha" and the title track, with prominent guitar. Yeah, I don't even like rap, and this is good. A tough one not to like, even with the fillers and skits and such. It is a bit to long, though. Do not get this confused with your stupid "G-G-G-G-UNIT!" crapola. Big difference.

Though they had already made a breakthrough with Aquemini, it was Stankonia that graduated OutKast to the top of the lists for crowds celebrating hip hop, alternative and R&B. The two big hits (the frenetic "B.O.B." and the serious swing of "Ms. Jackson") are the real deal, with solid enough melodies and hooks to make one want to revisit them again and again. But like many rap albums, it goes on too long and has far too many interludes and throwaways, no matter if they're almost all at least mildly amusing or interesting on first listen.

"Gasoline Dreams" has a good rant that reminds of old school acts like Public Enemy and "We Luv Dez Hoez" rises above its annoying title by delivering a terrific rolling melody. But "Snappin' & Trappin'" has a stuttered beat that fails too grab hold and filler like "Slum Beautiful" and "Red Velvet" are immediately forgettable. While it remains overrated by rap fans and otherwise, this is still far more entertaining and respectable than the slew of embarrassing MCs that think they "speak the truth" on endless replay on MTV.

Best cuts: "B.O.B." "Gasoline Dreams," "Ms. Jackson," "I'll Call Before I Come," "We Luv Dez Hoez," "So Fresh, So Clean," "Humble Mumble," "Toilet Tisha," "Stankonia (Stanklove)," "Spaghetti Junstion"

They are in my opinion the greatest Hip-Hop group to come out of the south and one of the greatest period. This album is hot from beginning to end. It's their third album and third straight classic. They proved long ago with several other artist in that time that the south does have lyricist. If you are tired of that club happy crap that's coming out of the south right now, then go back and get the classics that made it possible for those songs to be heard.

Outkast are da bomb and this is no exception. If u love Outkast I highly recommend Smoke Sessions, Vol. 1 Devin the Dude is dope

In a nutshell it is now 2008 and I still love listening to every single track on this cd. This cd will never get old to me. I love the fact that Outkast does not try to be like everybody else, they are so creative and very unique with their lyrical styles, beats, and choice of instruments. This is truly a CLASSIC!

OutKast are the best southern rap group of all time. This is one of the most creative albums ever. Dre is a spirtul leader of the album while Big Boi is there to add a gangsta element. Return of the "G" starts the CD with Dre laying down some of his best lyrics. Rosa Parks is the best song on the CD. You can't help but dance to it. All of the songs are classics and my favorite are Return, Rosa, Skew, Slump, West, Storytellin 2. Ok all the songs are classics.

These guys are pioneers in the hip-hop industry, no doubt. Pushing hip-hop to a whole new high with extraordinary beats, complimentary rap artists (George Clinton, Erykah Badu, Raekwon etc.) and stellar lyrics. Andre and Big Boi manage to out-do themselves with their latest album, "Aquemini." It's obvious at this point with their third album that they've created a cult following and aim to please...and they do...once again!!

"Synthesizer" and "SpottieOttieDopaliscious" are only a couple of my favorites on this original hip-hop album. George Clinton on "Synthesizer" along with Big Boi and Andre hold nothing back with their mad beats and their crafty, yet hard street lyrics. "SpottieOttieDopaliscious" mellow out the album with sly lyrics and fresh beats.

Lyrics from the song "West Savannah" deliver the audience further insight into Big Boi's lifestyle, while "Return of the G" blows up for Andre as he flows with his originality. These guys know what they are doing and will continue to deliver fresh and new ideas for hip-hop because people will always be faithful to this incredible group. Excellent CD fellas!

Outkast did a heck of a job creating one fun trippy album! This is classic Outkast and you cant hate on this awesome record they put out! Buy this!

Outkast's second album is one of the greatest sophomore releases of all time. Big Boi and Dre continue with what they left off in Southernplayalistic... They have some of the best beats the South has ever produced and two of the best flows out there. It truly is a combination that can't go wrong. Idlewild and Speakerboxx/Love Below are decent albums, but do not judge Outkast until you listen to ATLiens and Aquemini. Both are easily 10 out of 10 classics.

If all rap was like this album, I would listen to the genre a lot more than I do. It manages to be totally out-there (the spacey "Wheelz of Steel", a favorite of mine because of the creepy Spanish guitar and weird synthesizer squeaks and what have you; "Elevators", which sounds like Pink Floyd meets rap), but really catchy regardless (title song; "Two Dope Boyz (In a Cadillac)"). They even screw with your standard "rap ballad" on "Jazzy Belle" with echoey backup vocals. These guys know how to use the studio as an instrument, that's for sure. It's not just the studio effects that make this such a good release, either. It's also about Andre 3000 and Big Boi - two charismatic rappers with interesting voices who are capable of just packing their songs with as many rhymes as possible - without getting tongue-tied. Plus some great social commentary on "Ova Da Wudz"; "Elevators (Me & You)"; and "Babylon", which might be the best "rap-ballad" I've ever heard. I love that song's chorus... "Oooh, I think the battle's just begun...". Good stuff. And the beats are pretty sweet, too ("Over Da Wudz"). But the thing I really like about this album is the hypnotic mood it has, you know? Surprisingly, I even like the generic little interlude thingy that finds its way onto every rap album ("Wailin'"). It's quite funky. And I really like "Mainstream" - again, because of all the atmospheric "stuff". And our chorus. Now here's a group that understands the power of the chorus. "When it ain't all peaches and cream!" and so forth. "Decatur Psalm" isn't quite as big as the other songs, but it's got a nice chorus and a delicate wah-wah part, so it's good. Same with "Millennium" - not a standout, but a good song because of the mood. The only weak track is "E.T.", a song where nothing happens. It seems as though something's about to happen, but nothing does. Very bad song on a very good album. But even then, it's tough to deny the power of the moving, piano-based "13th Floor/Growing Old". Get this right away. I don't care how much you think you hate rap. This isn't your average rap album. Awesome cover art, too.

makes accents and country ways more than acceptable -- it makes it a fad. OutKast successfully continues to make being country cool.

ATLiens, in my opinion, is a better CD than Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik. Both are definite hip hop classics, but I have this draw to ATLiens. I can't explain what it is.

The CD is very different from the first. Where the first was built around the gangster concept, this CD builds its own concept. One I have yet to put a name to.

My favorite songs include Two Dope Boys, ATLiens, Jazzy Belle, Elevators, Babylon, Millenium, and Extra-Terrestrial.

Definite Must Have.

This is one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time. PERIOD. Beats are SICK. Flows are SICKER. I often find myself replaying the same tracks over and over for hours. The album embodies hip hop as an art form, every track is excellent.

Case in point: This is the ONLY album I have bumped in my car for over 8 months now. I'm literally addicted. If you consider yourself a fan of hip hop and rap music, it is imperative that you memorize this album. Buy it, download it, borrow it, whatever; JUST GET IT.

A bit more of a stereotypical rap album than the group's later work, which is probably why I didn't like it much the first time I heard it. I'm not a fan of stereotypical G-Funk, see, and that's all I heard in it the first time through. God, was I wrong. It's deeper than that, even though it's not fully immersed in the "alternative" thing yet. So even the more "playa-business" oriented tracks - "Ain't No Thang," "Myintrotoletuknow," "Call of Da Wild," "Claimin' True," "Crumblin' Erb," "D.E.E.P." - has OutKast's trademark dark, quirky, layered production. And the classic songs kick as much butt as the best of OutKast's later albums do. The title track is a condensed Isaac Hayes epic with hip-hop beats; breakthrough hit "Player's Ball" has a great rolling beat, charismatic rapping, and a brilliant falsetto chorus; "Funky Ride" is laid-back and has a gorgeous psychedelic guitar solo; the lengthy "Get Up, Get Out" is a bit preachy but has a solid chorus and fantastic guitar parts; other than its annoying intro, "Hootie Hoo" is dark and creepy, with more sweet beats. So the only real problem I have with this, other than its less creative nature than future albums (which makes sense, because it was a debut) and the skits (which are dumb), is the general "sameyness" of the whole thing. Outside of the five tracks I mentioned as classics, everything on this album sounds the same. Now, I like the sound it's got going for it, so it's not too bad, but a bit of diversity would've been appreciated. It makes the album exhausting. Oh well, still great, though not as great as the next three.

If you didn't grow up with this, and don't already know the words, your either from siberia, into david hasselhoff, or a virgin. but seriously, don't hassle the hoff. with that said, growing up in L.A., this is a must have.

In a time when G-Funk saturated the radio, Outkast first dropped their classic, southern fried twist with this breakthrough album. The production is dripping with 808 funk and stretched out, Cadillac Wah-Guitar riffs. The only album I feel rivals ATliens for best Outkast effort, and that's saying something.

Great Old school. With the garbage that is coming out in the Hip-Hop world these days, this is a great throw back with outkast

ANDRE 3000 IN MY BOOK IS IN THE TOP 10 MC'S OF ALL TIME. HIS FLOW IS ON TARGET HIS DELIVERY PRECISE. I AM SAD TO SAY AS AN DIE HARD OUTKAST FAN THAT THIS ALBUM IS COMPLETE GARBAGE. DO NOT BUY IT UNLESS YOU ENJOYED THE LOVE BELOW. ANDRE I AM AN DIVERSE MUSIC LOVER IF YOU WERE A GOOD SINGER I WOULD BE THE FIRST TO JUMP ON YOUR SINGING BANDWAGON, BUT UNFORNUTLEY YOU CANT SING YOUR WAY OUT OF A BOOT IF THE INSTRUCTIONS WERE ON THE HEEL. PLEASE I IMPLORE YOU TO GO BACK TO YOUR ROOTS AND RAP,RAP,RAP. IT IS YOUR GOD GIVEN TALENT AND YOU HAVE ABANDONED IT.

This is by far their best album!Unique in a way that they are known for.For those that think this album is no good, open your mind!It's an ingenious album!

I recently purchased an "Idlewild" CD, the explicit music version of the show "Idlewild", specifically for the song "The Greatest Show on Earth" because, SPECIFICALLY, OF THE HORNS!!!!!!! BUT, (hint, hint, hint), when I bought the CD the song did not feature any HORNS!!!!! in the song "The Greatest Show on Earth". The horns in the movie made that song stand out like no other with power and BRAVO, and made me designate this song as the best I have ever heard, over all the rests. Yes, though, of course, the singer and other music, in the song, rocked too! The singer was great in that laid back, sophisticated style of genre play. She gave significance to being alive in a world of prejudice, hate, and suffering. But, again, though, the horns brought life to the song like beer (or fresh water for those of us who do not drink} running out of a rock on the side of a mountain. The horns made the song ROCK SOLID!!!!! The song JAMMED FOR ALL TIME SAKE!!!! That's in the movie, though. But when I listened to the CD there are no HORNS in that song; at least none that I can hear. Needless to say, I was very, totally, boiling, disappointed. In addition, guys, you also cut the song short; toooooo short. As it was getting ready to take off, it blahs out, like a mouse slamming into a wall!!!! The rest of the CD is good, though. But man, I'm telling you, the CD suffers and limps without the HORNS in the song of "The Greatest Show on Earth". I think Outkast knew this and just ripped everybody off!!! Bass saxophones, tenor saxophones, and trombones and trumpets (whatever they were) ROCKKKKEDD in the movie, but not on the CD. I won't buy another CD by Outkast again.

Earl

This is by far OutKast's worst album. I never though I would even be using the words 'worst' and 'OutKast' in the same conversation. Matter of fact, this was their only bad album. I am a die-hard outkast fan. Andre 3000 is my idol. However, I have to admit this album sux. I can't believe that Kast would even put out something of such low quality. They must of had a contract obligation to fulfil or something. I knew it would sound different because after all, it is an OutKast album, but damn, this Idlewild album sounds horrible.

Continuing after the success of Speakerboxxx/Love Below is Idlewild. Its been a while since Ive heard Andre and Big Boi on the same tracks. This CD has a few of them on the same songs. First up is Mighty'O which, when I heard it at the time, I thought that the old 'Kast was back. Then after that song there was Big Boi and Dre going solo again. They get back together to do Hollywood Divorce with Lil Wayne and Snoop Dogg( great verses by everyone on that one!), and they do 1 more together from the movie which I liked but cant remember the name of it. I loved the singing and all the jazz inspired tunes but what I really want,what I think everyone else wants is Andre Benjamin to come back to being a full time MC. The rap game needs him to spit knowledge to these kids. Hopefully the next album he will.

If you're a hardcore OutKast fan, you already own this LP as well as all the others (or at least your personal favs since none of their offerings are exactly the same).

If you're lukewarm, more casual or just getting into 'Kast, this really is the LP you should start with because you truly get a "Greatest Hits Pre-2003" sampling of this group's many styles and flavors.

Do you like party music to jam to? It's here.

Do you prefer something funky & out of the ordinary? It's here.

Do you like above average lyrics and something that makes you think? There are songs on this CD that will fulfill that need as well.

Probably what makes OutKast so beloved, so respected and so watched is the fact they always find ways to be unique, innovative and more creative than what's out there in the world of music when they drop.

I honestly believe since they've been out for so long ('92, '93) and changed so much, every OutKast fan has a favorite OutKast sound or era.

The good news is that "Big Boi and Dre Present ..." has something for everybody!

'Kast's earlier work is a happy medium between funky but G'ed Up hip hop that's straight from the Gangsta Rap scene that dominated the better part of the '90s.

Songs like "Git Up, Git Out (and Get Something)," "Player's Ball," and "Ain't No Thang" kind of exemplify a time gone by. Big Boi 2 this day laughs about that material and where his head was -- yet this isn't a dis, but more of an artistic reflection. All of these tracks remain relevant and classic!

If Funk is more your thing, listen to "Crumblin' Erb," "Spottieottiedopaliscious" and to "Southernplayalisticadilacmuzik". These are tracks ladies I know always feel.

OutKast crossed over in a big way and while considered highly commercial by many standards, signature 'Kast songs like "Ms. Jackson," "Bombs Over Baghdad" (which is NOT a war song, btw), "So Fresh, So Clean" and "The Whole World" are hits that rightfully made this LP.

Perhaps 'Kast's most creative, innovative and thought-provoking jams like the highly political "Rosa Parks" and "Aquemini" are also among favorites on this LP. This group has always had messages in the overwhelming majority of their songs (even the party ones) and these tracks are indicative of their intelligence and talent.

The only knock against this CD is the fact that perhaps the greatest OutKast song of all-time, a track from the 1998 LP Aquemini called "Liberation" didn't make the final product.

That's a song all of you need to hear.

At any rate, OutKast is easily among the greatest of all hip hop duos -- if not the greatest -- on the level of Eric B & Rakim, EPMD, Redman & Method Man (aka da Blunt Brothers) and UGK.

Highly recommended purchase for any music fan of distinguished taste, male or female, gay or straight, young or old, black, white, brown, red or yellow.

I'm not a rap person so I didn't know this was a Outkast greatest hits, I saw it had Ms. Jackson and it was $7 so I picked it up. I have since picked up speakerboxx/the love below and loved that even more. outkast isn't your typical rap, which mostly is bland and uncreative, this stuff crosses genres and races. this hard rocker likes these cats very much

This CD has a lot of great tracks and makes a good addition to some Outkast fan collections. The best tracks on it are probably BOB and Whole World, but it's strong as a whole. Rosa Parks definitely deserves mention, too because it's got a fantastic beat. The CD might be worth 5 stars, except that it is just a collection of a lot of stuff most of us fans have already. But if you're new to Outkast and looking for a first CD to get, this is where to start.

I don't know what else you expected to get, it's Outkast, one of the most innovative hip-hop groups around now.

First and foremost, I'm a big fan of Outkast, so don't think I'm going to hate on them in anyway. When I first bought this album "Big Boi and Dre Present...Outkast" I was hoping to be remembered of the good times when I was a child listening to such albums as Southernplasticmuzik and ATLiens. Well, for the most part I got what I paid for. But here is the question: Why is it that most [rap] albums that try to showcase greatest hits, they don't put all of them on there? Looking through the albums that I'm pretty sure were hits are not on there. From the look of this compilation the gotten the correct hits from one out of the four albums that were released (Stankonia, 2000). It seems that they took the wront tracks from Aquemini (1998), not enough from ATLiens (1996), and did a decent job with Southernplayasticmuzik (1994). But I don't blame Andre and Big Boi for this fault, I should point the finger at Mr. Antonio "L.A." Reid for this shortcommings. Don't get me wrong, most of the tracks on this are nice, but it could have been better.

This is what I expect a greatest hits album to be:

From Southernplayaisicmuzik (1994):

1. Southernplayaisicmuzik
2. Git Up, Git Out (I don't mind it being the radio edit)
3. Player's Ball (the video reprise, the beat sounds so much better than the origonal)
4. Aint No Thang

From ATLiens (1996):

1. ATLiens
2. Elevators (Me & You)
3. Jazzy Belle (remix with the sung hook)

From Aquemini (1998):

1. Rosa Parks
2. Spottieottiedopalicious
3. Skew It On The Bar B
4. The Art Of Storytellin' (Part 3 with Slick Rick)

From Stankonia (2000):

1. So Fresh, So Clean
2. Ms. Jackson
3. B.O.B.

From some soundtracks:

1. Benz Or Beemer (NJ Drive Sndtrk)
2. Neck Ov Da Woods (The Wood Sndtrk)

As for the new tracks, I don't mind "Funkin' Around" and "The Whole World" to be on here, but the album could have done without "Moovin Cool" for could have been saved for "The Love Below" album.

Basically what I'm saying is that if people are going to make a greatest hits album, they need to put all of them on here, not just some here and there. But I recommend this to ALL Outkast fans, despite the shortcommings.

Lyrics: A
Production: A-
Musical Vibes: A
Overall: A (5 stars for the songs they are; 3.5 stars for it to be a "greatest hits" album, so 4 stars total)

Standout tracks: Funkin Around, Rosa Parks, Southernplayasticmuzik, Player's Ball, Git Up Git Out

I'm like most Outkast fans. I jumped on the bandwagon once this cd came out. I had heard of them before this cd came out when I used to go to my friends house and his brother would be jamming to Stankonia. But anyways this cd is made of the "best" Outkast songs from their first 3 cds. Hardcore fans will argue that they are missing a few songs here or there but everyone knows a "best of" cd is gona be missing some peoples favorite songs.

1.Intro-hilarious, nuff said(5/5)

2.Funkin' Around-new song with a funky beat(5/5)

3.Aint No Thang-okay song-(3/5)

4.So Fresh, So Clean-probably most recognizable and popular Outkast song(5/5)

5.Rosa Parks-underrated song to me(5/5)

6.The Whole World-great single with a great hook(5/5)

7.Aquemini-another ok song from an older album (3/5)

8.B.O.B.-my favorite song off the cd. exciting, energetic beat with very catchy hook(5/5)

9.Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik-from first cd(4/5)

10.Crumblin' Erb-i like the bongos in the background or whatever they are(4/5)

11.Ms. Jackson-2nd most poular single and another great song(5/5)

12.Player's Ball (Original)-classic(5/5)

13.Elevators (Me and You)-another different beat with a wierd hook(4/5)

14.Spottieottiedopaliscious-great slow song to jam to(5/5)

15.Git Up, Git Out-good song with positive lyrics(4/5)

16.Movin' Cool (The After Party)-another different beat and something you wouldn't expect from the old Outkast.(4/5)

In this album, we have two sides of things. Speakerboxx and the Love Below. Speakerboxx is mostly rap based. Pure hardcore rap. The Love Below is hiphop with some more soul. The Love Below is better. All in all, you are only buying this for 2-4 songs, so you might as well download them.

Yeah this is a great album with songs ranging from jazz to rap and evrything in between but I just want to know - Does anybody remember Outkast? It did not use to be about "TRYING TO BE ORIGINAL" they used to be great MC's. This album is definitely a fall-out in those regards but non-the-less this is a wonderful album and you would not expect anything less from Outkast. Pick this up but if your a fan than you know my pain.

I love their latest double CD Album:-Although Big Boi's Speakerboxxx side has some brilliant tracks on them, Andre 3000's The Love Below is HIGHLY ADDICTIVE. I cannot stop playing these tracks on The Love Below CD.

( In order of preference )

1) Hey Ya.......(The best song this millennium..PERIOD)

2) Spead ...... (The hook and pull on this song is out of this world. Its like you're speeding home in your car during the night)

3) Happy Valentines day .....(Designed for ALL parties and clubs)

4) Love Hater ....... (This song is full of STYLE)

5) Love in War ...... (Well put together)

6) Dracula's Wedding ......(Exciting cartoon superhero style type of tune)

great cd
best outkast album.

every song on both cd's are great.
i like speakerboxx a little better b/c ts rap but there both good(speakerboxx and the love below)

buy this if u dont have it
it dosent matter if u get clean or explicit version

This is such a superb album it is kind of hard to describe. I listined to this album because of all the hype surrounding it. By nature i am not a rap fan, and don't usually even like rap, but this album really captured me like nothing else has in awhile. Listen to the Love Below, and that alone makes it an incredible album. THe love Below is... very creative, to the point of exhaustive genius, and is structured in a way that is like absolutely nothing else. It is very eclectic, with styles ranging from funk to rock, to soul, to almost beat poetry. It enthrolles you with a magnet affect. It is also very artsy, and unconforming to all the rap crap that is spread over the stations with boring stereo typicalisms. These guys are actually willing to concern themselves with the music, the lyrics, and anything else to make an artistic triumph rather than a number one hit. Any band or artist that is willing to be concerned with THE Album, not the hit, is ok in my book. i really hate commercial songs for the sake of popularity, and thankfully they do none of that.
Now... disc two does stray from what Andre 3000 is trying to accomplish, and doesn't provide the same "loveliness" if you will; the melodies are not as creative, the mood is different, but it is still enjoyable. Overall this is an achievement in music i wish i saw more of. Superb.

A double shot of pianist-siren Amos steals the show in what was a marketable mix of (mostly) boring rap, bland R&B, and serviceable rock with a few other worthwhile contributions (Outkast circa Atliens and Rage before Evil Empire dropped to name the obvious ones) made this album enticing when it was released.

I read all 13 reviews and I did not even see the work Outkast. This is by far one of the highlights of the album. The whole thing is good but if you are an Outkast fan this is a must have just for the one song by them.

As one other reviewer said, this soundtrack (as well as the film that spawned it) was way ahead of its time and many of the topics covered in these songs are still relevant today!

The style of this film was also ahead of its time. It isn't pure R & B, rap, rock or any other style of music. Its all of these things. In truth, this soundtrack kind of represents what American means.....a melting pot. That's what makes this soundtrack so unique.

My favorites are "Higher" by Ice Cube and "All I Ask Of You" by Raphael Saddiq but nearly all of the tracks are worth a listen. Much like New Jack City, this soundtrack was spreading a message that is still just as relevant in 2007 as it was in 1995. Highly recommended.

i mean seriously it really is.a soundtrack this diverse was unheard of during the 90's.Though ironically this represents the diversity of that awesome decade verry well.theirs something here for everybody.ZHANE,ice cube,liz phair,rage against the machine,brand new heavies.you would be hard pressed to find a more diverse soundtrack from this era.

as far as the songs themselves their actualy good,and i have nothing really bad to say about them.though i must admit tori amous isn't for me.and i belive people had the same problem with this album.it was probably TOO diverse for its own good,but nevertheless a good album.

I have been looking for this CD for the longest. Im so glad I found it. My favorite song is "Soul Searchin" by Me'Shell NdegeOcello.

I remember this album when I was in the 8th grade. I Played this album out. It was good. This is an album that will only add to the accolades of this group. They did new things like taking different rhythms, different tempos, to reflect what is going on with our world. The music has an urgent feel. They were improving themselves as musicians and artists. This album has been certified 4x Platinum. Remember, this was 2000.

this was a ok outkast album its not the best the best song on the album is bombs over baghdad because the singer raps HELLA FAST!!!
STANKONIA

the best outkast album is ATLenis

Outkast with a K... Some real good music on here, some classic stuff...so fresh, so clean with all the dirty south hits like gasoline and B.O.B...Humble as a Mumble in the jungles of shouts and screams.... that's the way erika sang it so I guess I've got to reroute my dreams...some b-real on the Xplosion of dirty beat that just makes you want to get some more outkast...

The fourth album by this Georgian rap duo is widely considered to be about as good as alternative hip-hop gets. And you know what? Once you get past the interludes (the worst of which being the forty-second "I'm Cool", pretty much that title phrase on repeat. Fun...), I more or less agree. Like the similarly-minded Gorillaz, they know how to use headphone stuff to good effect - if it weren't for the quirky sounds, "So Fresh, So Clean" would be just another R&B ballad, but with them it's elevated to a pretty high level. And speaking of ballads, come on, who doesn't like "Miss Jackson"? I mean, I'm not even a rap fan, but I know a good song when I hear it, and that's one right there. But it's not just ballads: They really rock the house on the Public Enemy-influenced "Gasoline Dreams", a dense mix of samples; "Spaghetti Junction" is very funky; the nonstop rant "B.O.B." (that stands for "Bombs Over Baghdad") is downright hyperactive, but that's a great rhythm track it's got behind it. And just for variety's sake, they get all spacey and such on the psychedelic "I'll Call Before I Come" - think "Pink Floyd hip-hop", if that's even possible - and even include a haunted-house harpsichord on "Xplosion", as well as adding African rhythms to "Humble Mumble". Not all of it is great - I can safely say I do not like "We Luv Dees Hoes" (isn't OutKast supposed to be the alternative to stuff like that?); the noise attack "?"; or clichéd tracks like "Gangsta S***" or "Red Velvet". And even those are redeemed by the near-heartbreaking "Toilet Tisha" and the title track, with prominent guitar. Yeah, I don't even like rap, and this is good. A tough one not to like, even with the fillers and skits and such. It is a bit to long, though. Do not get this confused with your stupid "G-G-G-G-UNIT!" crapola. Big difference.

Though they had already made a breakthrough with Aquemini, it was Stankonia that graduated OutKast to the top of the lists for crowds celebrating hip hop, alternative and R&B. The two big hits (the frenetic "B.O.B." and the serious swing of "Ms. Jackson") are the real deal, with solid enough melodies and hooks to make one want to revisit them again and again. But like many rap albums, it goes on too long and has far too many interludes and throwaways, no matter if they're almost all at least mildly amusing or interesting on first listen.

"Gasoline Dreams" has a good rant that reminds of old school acts like Public Enemy and "We Luv Dez Hoez" rises above its annoying title by delivering a terrific rolling melody. But "Snappin' & Trappin'" has a stuttered beat that fails too grab hold and filler like "Slum Beautiful" and "Red Velvet" are immediately forgettable. While it remains overrated by rap fans and otherwise, this is still far more entertaining and respectable than the slew of embarrassing MCs that think they "speak the truth" on endless replay on MTV.

Best cuts: "B.O.B." "Gasoline Dreams," "Ms. Jackson," "I'll Call Before I Come," "We Luv Dez Hoez," "So Fresh, So Clean," "Humble Mumble," "Toilet Tisha," "Stankonia (Stanklove)," "Spaghetti Junstion"