Before the Roc La Familia run, the Def Jam days, and the Reggaeton rally, N.O.R.E. was just a dope MC. There is a reason why Capone-N-Noreaga’s The War Report is an enduring gem of an album. Noreaga’s infectious personality, aggressive cadence, and authentically New York experience have made him a lasting product of the mid-1990s.

With many styles in his bag of tricks, N.O.R.E. returns to his earliest stride on “Lil’ Bit Of Love.” Joined by another ’90s Queens MC, Royal Flush, the pair hop on a Corona, Queens hit instrumental (courtesy of The Beatnuts) to exercise a dope routine that sounds like a blend tape hit, pressed to vinyl. This is the N.O. that many Heads champion, celebrate, and hope to hear more of.

Where’s Fat Man Scoop call-outs when you need them?

Related: N.O.R.E. Puts His Spin on Believe Me (Audio)