Boogiemonsters were an American hip-hop group consisting of Bronx-born rapper Mondo McCann, Alaskan-born Vex Da Vortex (Sean Pollard) and Jamaican-born brothers Myntric (Sean Myers) and Yodared (Ivor “Al” Myers). The members met while attending Virginia State University, quickly bonded and began recording demos and performing at campus events. Their initial momentum led them to win first place at Howard University’s Hip Hop Convention.
The record label Pendulum / EMI signed the four MCs and released their debut album “Riders Of The Storm: The Underwater Album” in 1994. The first single “Recognized Thresholds of Negative Stress” introduced their thoughtful, alternative approach to hip-hop. It was followed by “Honeydips in Gotham”, a gentle homage to the city’s fly sistas, and “Strange”, based on a clever cameo sample. Another standout track, “Salt Water Taffy (Slo Jam)”, is considered one of future producer Scott Storch’s first appearances on a non-roots session.
“Riders Of The Storm: The Underwater Album” offers a concentrated blend of raw beats, sharp lyricism and atmospheric production that stands out from the 90s hip-hop landscape. The mix of conscious themes and deep grooves make it a must-listen for fans of underground hip-hop. The album’s smooth, funky and alternative sound seamlessly joins the ranks of groups like A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul, earning it a timeless place among the era’s most creative and progressive releases.
1 Side A: Jugganauts
2 Recognized Thresholds of Negative Stress
3 Boogie
4 Muzic Appreciation (Sweet Music)
5 Mark of the Beast
6 Altered States of Consciousness
Side B:
7 Honeydips In Gotham
8 Strange
9 Old Man Jacob’s Well
10 Bronx Bombas
11 Salt Water Taffy (Slo Jam)
12 Riders of the Storm
