Dr. Dre "The Chronic" [1992]

Sure, "The Chronic" refers to a particularly potent joint to be smoked... but honestly, who can't see that it far more accurately reflects "the chronic" condition of tragic idiocy and idiotic tragedy in and around the 'hood in '92-'93? That it celebrates said condition -- killin' motherfuckers, fuckin' bitches, etc., etc. -- makes this CD a tragedy in itself, even before considering the endlessly flatulent bass lines and the introduction of permanently stoned-to-stupidity Snoop Doggy Dogg (who attempts to rhyme "tonsils" with "concert," and should have lost his rapping license right there). Looting catch phrases from 70s soul tunes and justifying the LA riots with bloodthirsty paranoia, "The Chronic" is definitely a testament of the time: setting African American progress back 75 years (bested only by the OJ trial). Disagree? Then feel free trying to put a positive spin on, "If your bitches talk shit / I have to put the smack down." Good luck.