As he was ramping up his own career, Talib Kweli made critical appearances on compilations, 12″ singles, and albums by the likes of Pharoahe Monch, The Roots, and others. The Brooklyn, New Yorker knew that careers didn’t happen overnight—especially those that last for many, many days. Since his late ’90s, early 2000s opening stride with excellent album-making, Talib has put the spotlight on the likes of Kanye West, Jean Grae, and Rah Digga, among others.

In one of his latest business endeavors, the Black Star/Reflection Eternal member is still down for the cause. Javotti Media, the imprint responsible for Kweli’s material for more than five years has a roster that includes NIKO IS, K’Valentine, and Chazmere. He wants those acts to flourish, and showcases them on his latest compilation Awful People Are Great At Parties. Like 2015’s Indie 500, this effort pushes these artists out into the open, with well established support. Goodie Mob’s Big Gipp, Aloe Blacc, and Scotty ATL appears. Production comes from close affiliates Hi-Tek, Nottz, and KAYTRANADA (care of a re-visitation of Vic Mensa’s 2014 “Wimme Nah” track that he produced).

Talib Kweli & Rick Ross Are An Unexpected But Lethal Combination (Audio)

Kweli anchors the 12-track project, dropping in several solo records that he’s shared throughout recent months.