Today in Hip Hop History: 3rd Bass Releases Sophomore Album, ‘Derelicts of Dialect’ 29 Years Ago

Twenty-five years ago today [June 18, 2016], 3rd Bass released its sophomore album, 1991’s Derelict of Dialect. As the follow-up to 1989’s The Cactus Album, 3rd Bass’ incredible debut, Derelicts of Dialect had big shoes to fill.

The Queens, New York trio, comprised of MC Serch, Pete Nice and DJ Richie Rich, were up to the challenge. They’d already broken down plenty of barriers, including being one of Hip Hop’s first interracial groups.

Serch had reportedly tried to join up with the Beastie Boys. Upon signing with Def Jam, 3rd Bass also inherited the label’s feud with Ad-Rock, MCA and Mike D. The Cactus Album was released shortly after the Beastie Boys’ explosive rap debut, Licensed to Ill. 3rd Bass targeted MC Hammer and the Beastie Boys on the record.

Derelicts of Dialect took aim at fellow white rapper Vanilla Ice, who was the focal point of several tracks on the album, most notably “Pop Goes the Weasel.” The video featured punk rock icon Henry Rollins dressed up as Ice, who received a “beatdown” by 3rd Bass at the end.

3rd Bass broke up shortly after the album’s release. On April 6, 2013, however, Serch announced on Facebook 3rd Bass would reunite after over 20 years to tour in celebration of The Cactus Album‘s 25th anniversary, but not too much came of that.