De La Soul Set to Release Rare EP Featuring A Tribe Called Quest
De La Soul is set to release a long-lost gem from the mid-1990s, providing fans with an opportunity to experience a rare collaboration with A Tribe Called Quest. The legendary rap group announced on January 10 that their Clear Lake Audiotorium EP, originally distributed in 1994, will be officially released later this year, offering a glimpse into the era that shaped their iconic sound.
Originally pressed as a promotional release for select DJs, only 500 copies of the EP were ever made, making it a near-mythical piece for collectors. As De La Soul revealed on their Instagram, the project includes four tracks from the Buhloone Mindstate era, featuring two rare collaborations: “sh.Fe.Mc’s” with A Tribe Called Quest and “Stix & Stonz” featuring Tito of The Fearless Four, Grandmaster Caz, L.A. Sunshine of the Treacherous Three, and Prince Whipper Whip.
Clear Lake Audiotorium: A Hip-Hop Treasure from the 90s
The original version of Clear Lake Audiotorium included six songs, most of which appeared on the group’s critically acclaimed album, Buhloone Mindstate, including tracks like “Patti Dooke,” “In the Woods,” and “I Be Blowin’.” While only a select few had the chance to own this rare release, its near-mythical status has made it one of the most sought-after treasures in the world of hip-hop.
The upcoming release of Clear Lake Audiotorium on March 7 will be available on streaming platforms and in both digital and physical formats, making it accessible to a new generation of fans. Pre-orders are already available, adding excitement to the forthcoming reissue of this legendary EP.
De La Soul’s Legacy and the Impact of Their Rereleases
The release of this EP marks the latest chapter in De La Soul’s ongoing effort to re-release their extensive catalog. In 2023, several of the group’s classic albums, including 3 Feet High and Rising, De La Soul Is Dead, Buhloone Mindstate, and Stakes Is High, were made available digitally for the first time. These releases were initially delayed due to sample clearance issues and a legal battle with their former label, Tommy Boy Records.
In 2021, a landmark deal was struck when Reservoir Media acquired Tommy Boy for $100 million, paving the way for the digitization of De La Soul’s early catalog. The decision to finally release these iconic records digitally was bittersweet, as it came after the tragic passing of founding member David “Trugoy the Dove” Jolicoeur. Despite the immense loss, De La Soul continues to honor his legacy, with members Posdnuos and Maseo carrying the torch forward.
Looking Ahead: The Future of De La Soul
Even after Trugoy’s passing, De La Soul is committed to continuing their musical journey. The duo has confirmed that a third installment of their Art Official Intelligence series is currently in the works. Furthermore, it was reported that the group had been collaborating on two new albums with renowned producers DJ Premier and Pete Rock before Trugoy’s death.
The release of Clear Lake Audiotorium serves as both a tribute to the past and a signal that De La Soul’s influence on the world of hip-hop will continue to reverberate for years to come. Fans can look forward to experiencing the magic of this rare collaboration, as the group brings their rich history to the digital age while continuing to make new waves in the industry.
