For the first time ever, Lead Poison is available on cassette in celebration of its 10th anniversary. Released by Coalmine Reissues in partnership with GLOW365 LLC, this edition features a reimagined cover and layout.
Released in 2016 after years of anticipation, Lead Poison stands as Detroit lyricist Elzhi’s most vulnerable and rewarding album. Known for his razor-sharp wordplay and elite penmanship, the former Slum Village emcee fought through a heavy cloud of depression and writer’s block to complete the record, ultimately delivering a project that balances lyrical brilliance with raw emotional honesty.
The 16-track LP finds Elzhi navigating self-doubt, isolation, and resilience while reaffirming his status as one of hip-hop’s most gifted writers. Standout singles include “Alienated,” a haunting meditation on loneliness featuring Smitty Soul; “Two 16’s,” a hard-hitting display of lyrical dexterity produced by Karriem Riggins; and “February,” the reflective 14kt-produced cut that quickly became a fan favorite.
Elsewhere, Nick Speed supplies the brooding backdrop for “Medicine Man,” Quelle Chris delivers the off-kilter production on “Egocentric,” and Bombay—who helms six of the album’s tracks—provides the moody canvas for “Introverted,” a centerpiece of the record’s intimate tone. Additional production comes courtesy of Oh No, Soledad Brother, Joself, and Agor, rounding out a soundscape as layered as the subject matter itself.
With sparse guest features, the spotlight remains firmly on Elzhi, whose storytelling and cadence guide listeners through themes of pain, perseverance, and personal growth.
| 1 | Medicine Man |
| 2 | Introverted |
| 3 | Weedipedia |
| 4 | February |
| 5 | Egocentric |
| 6 | Two 16's |
| 7 | Hello!!! |
| 8 | Friendzone |
| 9 | The Healing Process |
| 10 | Cloud |
| 11 | Alienated |
| 12 | She Sucks |
| 13 | Cosign |
| 14 | MisRight |
| 15 | The Turning Point |
| 16 | Keep Dreaming |
