The Release Party is a DVD documentary looking back at the trials and tribulations of
Dilated Peoples, an underground rap sensation that languished on a major label for several years despite showing so much promise as an independent act that they had their pick of major-label offers from which to choose. In a way, the film is a celebration of
Dilated Peoples' long-awaited return to the underground circa 2007, the title referencing the group's release from their contract with Capitol Records. Anyone who is a fan of the group -- or simply a fan of hip-hop, for that matter -- will find much to appreciate here. The film is directed by Jason Goldwatch, a longtime friend of the group who interweaves home-video footage with archival material. Besides offering an intimate look at
Evidence,
Rakaa, and
Babu (i.e., the three members comprising
Dilated Peoples), there are plenty of guest appearances from some of underground rap's leading stars, along with more mainstream artists like
Prodigy (of
Mobb Deep) and
Kanye West. ~ Jason Birchmeier