In today's climate, the next best thing to albums are mixtapes – and more people may hear it. Between deejay-led collections of new and old songs, and the increasingly popular artist-helmed tapes that showcase skills over music that's not commercially viable, mixtapes were a crucial part of Hip Hop's genesis, and that still holds true today.

Meridian, Mississippi's Big K.R.I.T. has been under the national radar for the last five years, making free mixtapes that eclipse many rappers' albums. With his simple tape, the emcee/producer needed little help in upholding traditions started by both UGK and Little Brother. With regional commentary, K.R.I.T. brought substance to his craft and demonstrated an ability to make songs that belong in box Chevys and dorm rooms alike. The DJ Wally Sparks-assisted tape carried K.R.I.T. to a Def Jam deal that makes his debut highly anticipated.