Return of the PNC Boyz: A Deep Dive into Smif-N-Wessun’s After nearly six years away from the spotlight, Brooklyn’s legendary duo Smif-N-Wessun
(Tek and Steele) returned in 2019 with their seventh studio album, . Released through Duck Down Music
on February 22, 2019, the project is a masterclass in mature, "age-appropriate" boom-bap that stays true to their hardcore roots. The Soul Council Sound The defining characteristic of is its cohesive production. The entire album was handled by 9th Wonder and his production team, The Soul Council
(including Khrysis, Eric G., E. Jones, and Nottz). This collaboration brings a dusty, soulful, and polished aesthetic that perfectly complements Tek and Steele’s seasoned delivery. Heavyweight Collaborations
The duo didn't come back alone. They enlisted a star-studded lineup of guest features that bridge the gap between underground grit and mainstream appeal: on "Let Me Tell Ya" on "Dreamland" Musiq Soulchild on "Ocean Drive" Heather Victoria SmittytheCAINSMITH across various tracks Essential Tracks
The album balances spiritual perspectives with street wisdom. Notable tracks include: "Stahfallah" : A reflective track with a spiritual lean. "Letter 4 U" : Adds a personal, matured touch to the duo's narrative. "Illusions"
: A standout track where the duo addresses critics with street-smart poise. Why It Matters
serves as a bridge for fans who grew up with the duo's 1995 classic Dah Shinin'
. It offers a "matured and astute perspective" on life without falling into the trap of over-the-top nostalgia. It’s a solid addition for any vinyl collector or fan of authentic East Coast hip-hop. or more info on their latest 2025 release,
Smif N Wessun — "The All Zip"
In the grey of dawn I lace the beat, steel-toed rhythms on cracked concrete, Bass like a heartbeat, steady, low — this borough never sleeps, just breathes. Cobblestone prophets on corners preach in ciphered tones, Smif and Wessun speak for the ones whose names got turned to numbers.
Hook: All Zip, all grit — tug the zipper, let the story out, All Zip, all bricks — block by block we shout. From stoop to stoop the echoes flip, the ledger's writ in ink and grit, All Zip, all truth — pull the world together, stitch by stitch.
Verse 1 (Tek): Jacket zipped to the throat, clinic of survival, cold nights test resolve, Checkered cap low, eyes catalog the moves, the tales revolve. From backyard cipher sessions to courthouse whispers, we adapt, Smif's cadence like a chronicle — every line a map. Gunmetal poetry — the city hums in minor key, Neighborhood hymns, rusted swings, a child's geometry. We carry ancestry in our pockets — lint and lighter tales, All Zip — a unity of threads that never fray or fail.
Verse 2 ( Steele): Steele steps through fog, breath cold like coin clutched tight, Soul stitched seams, a tongue that trades the darkness for the light. Block-level sermons, barber-shop philosophy in chairs, Truth's currency traded in glances, in the media glare. We move like seamstresses on asphalt, mending holes with names, Patchwork of futures sewn from yesterday's flames. Let 'em unzip the rumors; let the fabric speak the proof — All Zip: every hood, every heart under the same roof.
Bridge: Zip the past, unzip the present — flip the tab, expose the linen, No hem too small to keep the truth from the given. Stitch up trauma, stitch on pride — every needle makes a vow, To hold the weight, to carry the story, to show the how.
Verse 3 (Hook Reprise / Duo): Tek: Hear the zipper sing — it's a chorus made of footsteps, Steele: Hear the zipper rip — it's a loud unravel of regret. Together: All Zip — from basement radio to rooftop sermons, From broken stoops to corner stores — we hold the vermin. All Zip — fold the pain into the coat that keeps you warm, Zip the night to morning, ride the calm through the storm.
Outro: So every zipper closes memory but stitches a kin, All Zip — pull the metal down, feel the kinship from within. We Walk. We Stand. We Zip — together, seams reborn.
In the early 2000s, a user on the now-defunct Hip-Hop forum The T.R.O.Y. Blog uploaded a low-bitrate rip of their personal All Zip cassette. Despite the hiss and the 128kbps compression, the file spread like wildfire.
Today, searching for Smif N Wessun The All Zip on YouTube yields several results. Most are fan restorations. Some have added artificial reverb. A few purists have uploaded "untouched" needle-drops directly from the tape deck.
However, in 2020, Evil Dee himself addressed the bootleg on Instagram Live. When a fan asked about The All Zip, Evil Dee laughed and said:
"Man, that tape? That was the rough drafts. We gave that to DJs to test in the clubs. I don't even have a copy anymore. If you find one, don't send it to me—sell it to a Japanese collector for ten grand."
Smif N Wessun The All Zip is more than a bootleg. It is a historical document. It chronicles the transition of two Brownsville legends from street-corner rhymers to Hip-Hop royalty.
While Dah Shinin’ remains a certified classic—home to anthems like "Wontime" and "Bucktown"—The All Zip is the blueprint. It is the sound of the scaffolding before the building is finished. It is raw, it is illegal, and it is essential.
For those lucky enough to hear a pristine, first-generation copy, it offers a portal back to 1994: the smell of basement ciphers, the glow of the sampling light on an SP-1200, and the unmistakable voice of Steele growling, "Represent, represent, my god." Smif N Wessun The All Zip
In an era where music is disposable and algorithmic, The All Zip reminds us that true art is often found in the margins—on a shoddily dubbed tape, passed hand-to-hand in the pouring rain outside a New York Housing Project.
Protect your neck. And protect that tape.
Have you heard Smif N Wessun’s "The All Zip"? Do you own an original cassette or a digital rip? Share your memories of the Boot Camp Clik tape-trading era in the comments below.
Smif-N-Wessun released their sixth studio album, The All, on February 22, 2019, through Duck Down Music. This project marked a significant collaboration with 9th Wonder and his production team, The Soul Council, who produced the album in its entirety. Album Overview
Production: Entirely handled by 9th Wonder and The Soul Council, including Khrysis, Nottz, Eric G., and E. Jones.
Thematic Core: Unlike their gritty 1995 debut Dah Shinin', this album showcases a "matured and astute perspective" on life, with Tek and Steele reflecting on family, loss, and their longevity in hip-hop. Key Tracks:
"The A.L.L.": The title track features lyrics focusing on community and street survival, with the acronym referring to "all man pon deck" or "arm, leg, leg, head".
"DreamLand": A soulful, autobiographical track featuring Raekwon and Heather Victoria where they reminisce about their youth.
"Letter 4 U": A deeply personal song dedicated to their mothers and children.
"Let Me Tell Ya": A confrontational track featuring Rick Ross that blends his mainstream style with the duo's underground grime.
Guest Features: Includes Musiq Soulchild, Rapsody, GQ, and SmittytheCAINSMITH.
The album is often described by fans and critics as "dad rap" in a positive sense—dusty, boom-bap production paired with gems of street and esoteric knowledge. You can stream the full project on platforms like SoundCloud or Spotify.
While there is no record of a project titled "The All Zip," the Brooklyn hip-hop duo Smif-N-Wessun (Tek and Steele) released their sixth studio album, titled The All, on February 22, 2019. This project marked a significant "renaissance" for the Boot Camp Clik veterans, showcasing a shift toward mature, reflective "Dad Rap" without losing their signature street edge. Production and Sound
The album was produced entirely by 9th Wonder and his Soul Council production team (including Khrysis, Nottz, and Eric G.). Moving away from the gritty, distorted New York boom-bap of their 1995 debut Dah Shinin', the production on The All is described as:
Spacious and Clear: Critics noted a "mellow and relaxed feel" with angelic samples.
Soulful Boom-Bap: It pairs dusty, classic rhythms with polished, high-fidelity mixing.
Mature Tempo: Some reviewers found the album's pacing "sluggish" or "lethargic" compared to their high-energy early work. Key Tracks and Collaborations
The 12-song project features a heavy-hitting lineup of guest artists across the underground and mainstream spectrum: Warriorz Heart (Gangbang)
The 2019 album Smif-N-Wessun widely regarded as a solid, mature return for the . Produced entirely by 9th Wonder The Soul Council
, it trades their legendary 90s grit for a more polished, soulful, and introspective sound. what went right with...? Key Review Highlights Production Excellence : Critics and fans alike praise the production from 9th Wonder
, noting that it provides a high-quality "boom-bap" revival feel that stays fresh without simply rehashing old work. Maturity and Perspective
: The album is noted for its "adult contemporary" rap approach, featuring Tek and Steele
rapping from the perspective of OGs in their 40s. It includes positive messages and spiritual themes in tracks like "Stahfallah" "DreamLand" Strong Features : Guest appearances from Musiq Soulchild Return of the PNC Boyz: A Deep Dive
are highlighted as well-placed additions that enhance the album's dynamic. Consistent Quality
: While some reviewers felt it lacked a "standout hit" that would stick for decades, most agreed it was a "no-filler" project that is excellent for road trips or consistent rotation. Focus Hip Hop Notable Tracks "Ocean Drive"
: A standout "love song" featuring a smooth hook from Musiq Soulchild and a widely praised verse from Rapsody. "Illusions"
: Often cited as one of the best beats on the album, featuring a classic, minimalist boom-bap rhythm. "Let It Go"
: A track where Steele showcases his lyrical skill over a 9th Wonder beat that pays homage to the original 1995 Boot Camp Clik sound. Focus Hip Hop Critical Ratings Album Review | Smif-N-Wessun – The All - Focus Hip Hop
If you are specifically searching for a "zip" file or a physical version, here are the key details and available options: Album Overview:
This project marked a significant return for the duo, entirely produced by 9th Wonder Soul Council production team. Key Tracks : "Testify," "Dreamland" (feat. Raekwon), and "Let It Go". : Includes guest appearances by Musiq Soulchild Physical Copies & Availability
: You can find physical copies, including vinyl records, through collectors' marketplaces like , where prices typically range from $12 to $70 depending on the condition. Digital Streaming
: The album is widely available for official streaming and digital purchase on platforms like Duck Down Music and major DSPs. New Music Note
Smif-N-Wessun has remained active, recently announcing or releasing new music produced by
, such as the single "Infinity," leading into 2025 projects. or information on where to find their latest 2025 releases
Smif-N-Wessun - The All (2019) Новый альбом ... - VK
Released on February 22, 2019, The All is the sixth studio album by the legendary Brooklyn hip-hop duo Smif-N-Wessun. Released through Duck Down Music, the project marks a significant collaborative milestone, being produced entirely by 9th Wonder and his Soul Council production team (including Khrysis, Nottz, Eric G., and E. Jones).
The album represents a "matured and astute perspective" for Tek and Steele, moving beyond the gritty street anthems of their 1995 debut, Dah Shinin', into more reflective and soulful territory. Tracklist and Featured Artists
The 12-track album features a blend of veteran hip-hop icons and contemporary soul artists: Featured Artist(s) (Intro) The Education of Smif-N-Wessun Testify DreamLand Raekwon & Heather Victoria Ocean Drive Musiq Soulchild & Rapsody Let It Go Letter 4 U SmittytheCAINSMITH Let Me Tell Ya The A.L.L. We Good GQ & Heather Victoria StahfAllah Illusions One Time Key Musical Themes and Production
Soulful Boom Bap: Unlike their earlier work with Da Beatminerz, The All relies on the polished, sample-heavy "Soul Council" sound. 9th Wonder produced standouts like "Dreamland" and "The A.L.L.," while Khrysis contributed the soulful backdrop for "Ocean Drive".
Personal Growth: The lyrics often touch on spirituality and responsibility. On "Stahfallah," the duo explores a more spiritual perspective, while "Letter 4 U" provides a personal touch rarely seen in their earlier "hardcore" catalog.
Chemistry: Critics have highlighted the enduring chemistry between Tek and Steele, noting their ability to "punch in" on each other’s lines with a flow honed over 25 years. Critical Reception
The album was generally well-received as a "solid comeback". Album Review | Smif-N-Wessun – The All - Focus Hip Hop
Released on February 22, 2019 Duck Down Music serves as the sixth studio album by the legendary Brooklyn duo Smif-N-Wessun
. Deviating from the gritty, dark production of their 1995 classic Dah Shinin' , Tek and Steele collaborated with 9th Wonder and his production collective, The Soul Council
(Khrysis, Eric G., E. Jones, and Nottz), to create a more mature, soulful soundscape. Album Overview
The project is often described as "adult contemporary rap," focusing on themes of wisdom, personal reflection, and street survival. While critics noted its slower, "sluggish" tempo compared to their earlier work, many praised the polished production and the duo's ability to evolve without appearing preachy. Tracklist & Features The album consists of with a total runtime of approximately 43 minutes. Featured Artist(s) (Intro) The Education of Smif-N-Wessun Raekwon & Heather Victoria 9th Wonder Ocean Drive Musiq Soulchild & Rapsody 9th Wonder Letter 4 U SmittytheCAINSMITH Let Me Tell Ya The A.L.L. 9th Wonder GQ & Heather Victoria StahfAllah Notable Highlights The All» — Smif-N-Wessun - Альбом - Apple Music The Digital Resurrection: From Tape to MP3 In
Слушайте альбом «The All» (Smif-N-Wessun) в Apple Music. 2019. Песен: 12. Продолжительность: 43 мин.. Apple Music
It sounds like you're asking about a specific feature (guest appearance) on the track "The All" by Smif-N-Wessun — likely from their album The All (2019).
If you mean "The All" from their 2019 project The All, here’s the main feature:
That song appears on The All album, which also has other features like Buckshot, Rock, Heather Victoria, and Ruste Juxx across the tracklist.
If you instead meant a song called "The All Zip" — that’s likely a misunderstanding; there’s no known Smif-N-Wessun track by that exact name. Could you clarify if you’re thinking of:
Let me know, and I can give you the exact feature breakdown.
The All is the sixth studio album by the legendary Brooklyn hip-hop duo Smif-N-Wessun, consisting of Tek and Steele. Released on February 22, 2019, through Duck Down Music, the project marked a significant return for the duo, coming eight years after their previous full-length collaboration with Pete Rock. Production and Sound
The album is produced entirely by 9th Wonder and his production collective, The Soul Council, which includes Khrysis, Eric G., E. Jones, and Nottz. The sound is rooted in classic Boom Bap, featuring soulful samples and smooth, polished tracks that provide a counterbalance to the duo's raw, hardcore lyrical style. Key Features and Collaborations
Raekwon & Heather Victoria: Featured on "Dreamland," a nostalgic track where the artists reminisce about their childhoods.
Rick Ross: Lends a verse to "Let Me Tell Ya," which serves as a continuation of their previous collaboration on the Super Fly soundtrack.
Musiq Soulchild & Rapsody: Team up on "Ocean Drive," a relationship-focused track described as a "Bonnie & Clyde-esque" tune. GQ: Appears on "We Good" alongside Heather Victoria. SmittytheCAINSMITH: Featured on "Letter 4 U". Tracklist Highlights
The 12-track album runs approximately 43 minutes and includes themes of growth, wisdom, and Brooklyn roots. Featured Artist(s) The Education of Smif-N-Wessun (Intro) Raekwon, Heather Victoria 9th Wonder Ocean Drive Musiq Soulchild, Rapsody 9th Wonder Letter 4 U SmittytheCAINSMITH Let Me Tell Ya The A.L.L. 9th Wonder GQ, Heather Victoria Stahfallah
Critics noted the strong chemistry between Tek and Steele, highlighting that their back-and-forth delivery remains as "funky" and engaging as it was at the start of their 20-plus-year career.
While there is no specific song or album titled "Proper Paper" or "The All Zip" by the Brooklyn hip-hop duo Smif-N-Wessun, the query likely refers to their 2019 studio album The All.
In hip-hop terminology, "Proper Paper" often refers to having correct business documentation (like contracts or publishing) or significant money. "The All Zip" likely refers to a "zip file" (a compressed digital folder) of their album The All for downloading or streaming. Key Album Details: The All (2019) Release Date: February 22, 2019.
Producers: Entirely produced by 9th Wonder and The Soul Council (including Khrysis, Nottz, and Eric G). Record Label: Duck Down Music. Notable Tracks: The A.L.L. (the title track). Testify. Let Me Tell Ya (featuring Rick Ross). Dreamland (featuring Raekwon). Ocean Drive (featuring Musiq Soulchild and Rapsody). Recent Activity
The duo released a new album titled Infinity on February 21, 2025, which coincided with the 30th anniversary of their classic debut, Dah Shinin'. Smif-N-Wessun - Apple Music
Title: "The A.L.L." | Writer(s): Yates Jr. Williams Douthit | Producer(s): 9th Wonder | Length: 2:51 | row: Apple Music Hip-Hop and R&B Top 40 - iHeart
Released as the second single from their 2019 album, The All, this soul-smacking track. Featuring Heather Victoria & Raekwon.
Since the specific release "The All" by Smif-N-Wessun (also known as the Cocoa Brovaz) is widely considered a "buried treasure" of early 2000s hip-hop, a great feature angle would be to highlight it as a "Lost Masterpiece of the Boot Camp Clik Era."
Here is a drafted feature article/profile for the album:
A track that never officially made Dah Shinin’. Only available on The All Zip, this track features a loop from a obscure 1970s Italian horror film. The group reportedly lost the master tapes for this song, making the bootleg the only surviving copy.
While the retail version is crisp, the All Zip version has a hollowed-out bass drum and Steele’s vocals sitting slightly higher in the mix. It sounds like a ghost—eerier and more threatening.