Trinity (Past, Present and Future)

Producer Jay Dee was arguably the most essential member of Slum Village, so after he officially left to pursue solo interests it was hard to envision how the remaining members could keep going. That mystery was solved with 2002’s Trinity (Past, Present & Future). True to its title, the album continues the path of the group’s esteemed work from the '90s while incorporating new ideas. Jay Dee still contributes “Let’s,” “One," and “Hoes,” three songs that showcase his new electro-influenced style. The rest of the album employs an entire crop of younger Detroit producers who were heavily influenced by Jay, including Waajeed, Black Milk, and Karriem Riggins. Songs like “Insane,” “La La," and “Intro 2” come closest to the hushed thumps of Fantastic Vol. 2, but even Trinity's more pop-oriented material has the sleek moodiness that's Slum Village’s trademark. “Disco” and the amiable love song “Tainted” are two of the best songs of the group’s career.