VA - The Breaks: Original B Boy Street Funk & Block Party Classics [2CD Set] (2011)

From 1998 through 2000, the Harmless label released three volumes of The Breaks, with the selections made by DJ Pogo, Cutmaster Swift, and Skye. Just as the label released 15-year anniversary editions of its Mellow Mellow and Jumpin’ comps, it overhauled The Breaks with this two-disc set, which contains some of the tracks featured in the initial run along with other relevant cuts. Each one of the tracks was sampled on at least one notable rap track, while others were widespread. Not only does this function as an enjoyable beginner's level course in breaks, but it’s also a quality set of (mostly) ‘60s and early ‘70s soul and funk. Among the most-recognizable tracks: Skull Snaps' “It’s a New Day,” Taana Gardner's “Heartbeat” (a rare ‘80s inclusion), Instant Funk's “I Got My Mind Made Up,” Cymande’s “The Message,” and Willie Mitchell's instrumental version of the Rascals' “Groovin’.”