Today it was announced that Lyrics Born is finishing up his next album, As U Were. The founding member of the Solesides crew (DJ Shadow, Blackalicious), Lyrics Born is well-known for his ’90s work with Lateef The Truthspeaker in Latyrx. In recent years, the Northern California emcee has released several acclaimed solo albums since 2003’s Later That Day.

As U Were will feature collaboration with Quannum family Gift of Gab and Joyo Velarde, as well as Seattle producer Jake One. The release will come courtesy of New York’s Decon, home to many west coast underground veterans, such as Aceyalone, Chali 2na and Rakaa Iriscience. “I have been a fan of Lyrics Born since the days of Latyrx and we are thrilled to add him to our diverse roster here,” Peter Bittenbender, president of Decon said in a statement. “Throughout his expansive career, he has consistently exceeded his fans’ expectations when it comes to creativity, sound, and presentation. We look forward to continue pushing those boundaries with what we hope will be the first of many collaborations.”

The emcee’s Mobile Home Recordings will keep the master recordings and rights, in a changing industry trend. “I’m so excited about this right now,” LB said of the revolutionary deal with Decon. “I’m proud and flattered to be in league with such a long-standing and creative team that understands my vision.”

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As U Were‘s first single is “Lies X 3.” Below is a video, “Pushed Aside, Pulled Apart,” from LB’s last album.

In Southern California, another underground Hip Hop veteran is at work on a new project of his own. Motion Man, an emcee that’s long been associated with Kool Keith producer Kutmasta Kurt, will be releasing The Foreign Globester on August 31 with The Rondo Brothers.

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Motion Man has now been calling himself “The Foreign Globester” after celebrated work with the likes of Linkin Park’s platinum-selling remix album. Joining with the Bay area production/remix duo, The Foreign Globester will feature DJ Quest, members of Galactic and another remixer, K-Flay.

The release comes courtesy of DMAFT/Oglio Recordings, Kurt’s imprint.