2026 reissue, blue & green marbled version - Future Development is Del the Funky Homosapien’s third album and, following his departure from major label Elektra, his first solo full-length for his independent label, Hieroglyphics Imperium Recordings. Originally released on cassette in 1997, and later reissued on CD and vinyl in 2002, the album largely relied on in-house production from Del along with contributions from Hiero crew members A-Plus, Opio, and Toure. The only guest feature on the album is from crew member Casual, who joins Del on the energetic “Checking Out The Rivalry.”
Sonically, Future Development bridges the funk-heavy stylings of Del’s debut with the darker, more futuristic textures he explored on No Need for Alarm. Lyrically, Del refines his rapid-fire wordplay with sharper thematic focus, tackling life in Oakland, societal observations and hip-hop culture, all with a blend of humor, streetwise insight, and multi-syllabic dexterity. Ultimately, the album captures a snapshot of his progression from raw talent to a more conceptually matured songwriter. It remains a significant and under-appreciated chapter in Del’s evolution, showcasing early seeds of the creativity and independence that would come to define much of his career thereafter.
| A1 | Lyric Licking |
| A2 | Stress The World |
| A3 | Why You Wanna Get Funky.... |
| B1 | Don't Forget The Bass |
| B2 | Faulty |
| B3 | X-Files |
| C1 | Future Development |
| C2 | Corner Story |
| C3 | Love Is Worth |
| C4 | Del's Nightmare |
| D1 | Games Begin |
| D2 | Town To Town |
| D3 | Checkin Out The Rivalry |
