HiphopRnbSoul.com

While there were a ton of releases this year, only a handful managed to rise to the top, with a couple artists actually making the grade twice. Here are our Editor's Picks for best mainstream Rap/Hip-hop albums for 2006.

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1.		Ghostface - Fishscale - Lead by the radio hit, "Back Like That" featuring Ne-Yo, this set blazes with guest appearances by Raekwon, Cappadonna, and smoking production by Pete Rock, MF Doom, Just Blaze, and the late J-Dilla. Review
2.		Clipse - Hell Hath No Fury - Hell Hath No Fury is relentless brilliance running lyrical rings around other November releases from major weights Jay-Z and Snoop Dogg. Review
3.		Rhymefest - Blue Collar - Rhymefest's debut is chock full of real lyrics, top-notch production and vicious delivery. Whether it's in the pocket or in your face, Fest's rhymes kill every time. Review
4.		J Dilla - Donuts - Released a mere three days before J Dilla passed away from complications arising from lupus at the age of 32, this instrumental set is one of his last projects and perfectly showcases his brilliance.
5.		AZ - The Format - Continually underrated, but consistently superior, AZ proves he's still a true king of New York with this set.
6.		Ghostface - More Fish - Since dropping the poorly promoted best album of the year, Ghostface just had to hit us with another classic. Two blazing albums in one year, not many emcees can even pull this off. Props.
7.		Hi-Tek - Hi-Teknology Vol. 2: The Chip - The legendary DJ compiles and mixes uber classics such as "Eric B. Is President," "Droppin' Science" by Marley Marl and much more goodness.
8.		Lupe Fiasco - Food and Liquor - The alternative Chicagoan hip-hopper finally drops his much-leaked debut.
9.		J Dilla - The Shining - The last set from the late great producer features his classic sonic soundscape laced with guests including Common, Pharoahe Monch, D'Angelo, Black Thought and more.
10.		The Roots - Game Theory - The return of Malik B. wasn't enough to warn fans about the fire this release brings. Each track effortlessly leads to the next, giving the impression of one long, exquisite jam session.