Check out the album by Eyedea & DJ Abilities, called "First Born" and also his solo album, "The Many Faces of Oliver Hart". These are true hip-hop classics that must be heard.
Binary Star is possibly the best hip-hop duo to ever make music, in my opinion. OneBeLo and Senim Silla are masters of their craft. "Masters of the Universe" will forever remain a classic.
Dose One is one of the illest and realest musicians alive. His style is so unique, emcees couldn't imitate him even if they tried. Like me, he also hails from Oakland, CA.