In 2008, the New York City coming of age dramedy The Wackness took audiences around the world by storm. The little independent movie starring Ben Kingsly as a drug dealer and one of the Olsen Twins, showcased a Manhattan many remember -- the one of the 90s. Set in the summer of 1994, the film captures the city in Guiliani's era as a "broken windows" policy was implemented by the NYPD, Times Square started to become Disneyland and nothing could touch the city's hip-hop artists.
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The soundtrack captures the era perfectly. Featuring Biggie Smalls, Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, Craig Mack, KRS-One, A Tribe Called Quest, as well as a throwback classic rock song from Mott the Hoople, The Wackness blended the dopeness of NYC hip-hop of the mid 90s together better than any film ever. Listening to this album is the ultimate summer jam throwback and one that seals the debate -- the 90s rap of NYC was the best ever.
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