Nearly every great group splits up, NWA, Tribe, EPMD, Brand Nubian….The Pharcyde. The last, however, is rarely mention when the subject comes up. Yet, while it is easy to overlook The Pharcyde’s contributions to hip hop, it is not easy to dispute them. The Los Angeles based group was one of the few alternatives to gangsta rap in the early 90’s. It was in 1992 that they released their masterpiece “Bizarre Ryde 2.” Unfortunately, as the years passed, members left, and The Pharcyde has become a shell of what they used to be.

One of those that left was Tre’ Hardson, otherwise known as Slimkid Tre’. Slimkid left the group to pursue his solo career. It looks as if that plan has come to fruition. His solo debut, “Liberation,” will drop on September 10, 2002 on iMUSIC Records. The 17 track album represents Slimkid’s life and experiences over the past 3 years. Look for guest spots from Saul Williams, Chali 2na (of Jurassic 5), MC Lyte, and N’Dea Davenport (Brand New Heavies).

Now I know what a lot of you are asking, what’s up with Fatlip? Well, the former front man of The Pharcyde has also embarked on a solo career. He dropped that ill single last year (“What’s Up Fatlip”) and that has been about it. Hopefully, we will hear something from him soon.