The El-P discography comprises the recorded musical output of Jaime Meline (born 1975), an American rapper, producer, and record label owner, professionally known as El-P. His extensive discography spans over three decades, encompassing his work as a solo artist, a member of influential groups, and a highly sought-after producer for numerous other artists. He is widely recognized for his innovative, often dystopian production style and dense, abstract lyrical content, playing a pivotal role in the underground and alternative hip-hop movements.
Early Career: Company Flow
El-P first gained significant recognition as a founding member, rapper, and primary producer of the seminal hip-hop group Company Flow, formed in 1993. The group, which also included rapper Bigg Jus and DJ Mr. Len, was instrumental in pioneering a darker, more experimental, and lyrically complex style of hip-hop that stood apart from mainstream trends.
- Albums:
- Funcrusher (1996, EP)
- Funcrusher Plus (1997, album, Rawkus Records) – This album is widely considered a landmark in alternative hip-hop, showcasing El-P's distinct production and lyrical prowess.
- Little Johnny From The Hospital: The Blue Record (1999, EP)
Solo Career and Definitive Jux
Following the dissolution of Company Flow, El-P founded Definitive Jux in 2000, an independent record label that became a crucial hub for avant-garde hip-hop throughout the 2000s. He released his solo material through the label and also produced and released albums for a roster of artists including Aesop Rock, Cannibal Ox, and Mr. Lif.
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Solo Studio Albums:
- Fantastic Damage (2002, Definitive Jux) – His debut solo album, further solidifying his reputation for intricate beats and politically charged, abstract rhymes.
- I'll Sleep When You're Dead (2007, Definitive Jux) – A critically acclaimed album known for its dense atmosphere and thematic depth.
- Cancer 4 Cure (2012, Fat Possum Records) – Released after the indefinite hiatus of Definitive Jux, this album marked a slight shift in sound, incorporating more electronic elements.
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EPs and Instrumental Albums:
- High Water (2004, Thirsty Ear Recordings, with The Blue Series Continuum) – A collaborative jazz-influenced instrumental album.
- We Are All Going to Burn (2009, Gold Dust Media, EP)
- Pawn Shop Box Set (2002, Definitive Jux, instrumental collection)
- Collecting the Kid (2009, Gold Dust Media, compilation of unreleased tracks and instrumentals)
Production Work for Other Artists
El-P has an extensive and influential production catalog for other artists, often bringing his signature dystopian and intricate soundscapes to their projects.
- Notable Production Credits:
- Cannibal Ox – The Cold Vein (2001, Definitive Jux) – A critically acclaimed album widely praised for its dark, complex production.
- Aesop Rock – Labor Days (2001, Definitive Jux) and Bazooka Tooth (2003, Definitive Jux) – Produced several tracks.
- Madvillain – Madvillainy (2004, Stones Throw Records) – Produced the track "Jj Doom."
- Mr. Lif – I Phantom (2002, Definitive Jux) and Mo' Mega (2006, Definitive Jux) – Produced entire albums.
- Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails) – Contributed production to Year Zero Remixes (2007).
- Killer Mike – R.A.P. Music (2012, Williams Street Records) – Produced the entirety of this critically acclaimed album, which laid the groundwork for Run the Jewels.
- Various Def Jux releases.
Run the Jewels
In 2013, El-P formed the supergroup Run the Jewels with Atlanta rapper Killer Mike. The duo quickly gained massive critical and commercial success for their dynamic chemistry, hard-hitting production, and socially conscious lyrics. Their discography has been consistently lauded.
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Studio Albums:
- Run the Jewels (2013, Fool's Gold Records)
- Run the Jewels 2 (2014, Mass Appeal Records)
- Run the Jewels 3 (2016, Run the Jewels, Inc.)
- Run the Jewels 4 (2020, Run the Jewels, Inc.)
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Remix Album:
- Meow the Jewels (2015, Mass Appeal Records) – A fan-funded, cat sound-based remix of Run the Jewels 2.
Film and Television Scores
El-P has also contributed to film and television scores, demonstrating his versatility as a composer.
- Bomb the System (2002) – Contributed score and original music.
- The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2022) – Scored the fourth season of the Amazon Prime Video series.
Collaborations and Guest Appearances
Throughout his career, El-P has been a frequent collaborator and guest artist, appearing on tracks by a wide array of artists across various genres, including The Weathermen, The Mars Volta, DJ Krush, Blur, The Alchemist, and Zach de la Rocha. His unique vocal delivery and lyrical style make his guest verses distinctive.