With the release of their sophomore album Wolfpack Party on the near horizon, Bay Area rap group The Pack has signed a deal with SMC Recordings.

Previously signed to Too Short’s Up All Nite label and distributed through Jive Records, The Pack (Lil B, Young L, Stunnaman and Lil Uno) released their debut album Based Boys in 2007 behind their highly successful single “Vans.”

Citing a previous attempt at grabbing the four rising stars from Berkeley, California, Chief Operating Officer of SMC Recordings Will Bronson explained, “I tried signing The Pack when ‘Vans’ broke but how could I compete with Too $hort?” Excited about the new partnership, he continued, “The Pack has always been ahead of the curve and with this new album, the songs are stellar and they’ve truly evolved into stars. We’ve got so much in store for these guys it’s incredible.”

Joining a label that boasts such acts as Pastor Troy, Rakim and Killer Mike (a/k/a Mike Bigga), SMC Recordings CEO Ralph Tashijian added, “With their crossover appeal and a sound that stays one step ahead of the trends, they add incredible depth and prestige to our roster.”

The Pack plans to tour this summer in preparation for the new album, including Chiddy Bang’s West Coast stint next month. No tentative release date has been scheduled for Wolfpack Party as of yet.