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Stakes Is High ( 1996 ) was the first album not produced by Prince Paul, with overall production credits given solely to the trio.

Although it was met with poor sales, it has been critically lauded for its music, lyricism, and its overall message concerning the artistic decline rap music began to face in the mid-90s.

The title track and first single, produced by J Dilla, was not a hit, but the album's second single, " Itzsoweezee ( HOT )", with only Dave on vocals, did fare better due to its creative music video.

The album spawned a third single " 4 More ", featuring Zhane which peaked at # 52 in the UK.

The album did provide a launching pad for future star rapper and actor Mos Def, who appeared on the track " Big Brother Beat ".

The album also featured collaborations with Common, Truth Enola, and the Jazzyfatnastees.