This album is not only one of the best records in the history of rap. Public Enemy’s second album is an exceptional work. A musical object of unprecedented power, stacking samples to surpass the energy of rock.

Released in 1988 during the Reagan counter-revolution, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back is not only one of the best albums in the history of hip hop. Public Enemy’s second album is more than that: it is quite simply an exceptional work. A musical object of unprecedented power, stacking samples to surpass the energy of rock. As disturbing as it is appealing, this political and esthetic manifesto is the result of both careful calculation and indomitable spontaneity. The unlikely posse led by Chuck D and Hank Shocklee created uniqueness through antagonism.