OutKast - Big Boi and Dre Present... OutKast [2LP Purple Marble]

Seven years of Atlanta brilliance in a single sitting: Big Boi and Dre Present... OutKast arrives on purple marble 2LP, the duo's only compilation.

Released in 2001, while Stankonia was still riding high, the set traces André 3000 and Big Boi from the Organized Noize-produced funk of Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik through ATLiens and Aquemini to their chart-topping peak. Several older tracks appear in versions that differ from the original album cuts, and three new songs were recorded for the occasion.

"Ms. Jackson" still aches beneath its bounce, an apology wrapped in one of the most recognisable hooks of its era, "B.O.B. (Bombs Over Baghdad)" remains a breakneck rush of drum and bass energy and gospel fervour, and "Rosa Parks" stomps and claps its way to a harmonica breakdown.

Of the new material, "The Whole World", featuring Killer Mike, became the standout, going on to win the Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. Two more new songs, featuring Sleepy Brown and Joi, round out a set that works as a victory lap and a primer in equal measure.

Across 16 tracks the range is staggering, from smoky Southern soul to wild-eyed futurism, and the purple marble vinyl gives it the flamboyant presentation these two always deserved.