The Beatnuts (1994)

If the lyrics on this self-titled debut album by The Beatnuts, an Afro-Latino trio from Queens, N.Y., were half as inspired as their consistently inventive rhythms, they would have a minor classic on their hands. As it is, the rappers make up for with enthusiasm what they lack in poetry (e.g., ''the kicks make you vibrate like if you was a pager'' from ''Rik's Joint''). Required listening for all beat nuts. B