De La Soul is set to delight fans with the official release of their rare EP, Clear Lake Audiotorium, originally distributed as a limited promotional item in 1994. The legendary hip-hop group announced that the four-track EP, which holds a “near-mythical” status among collectors, will hit streaming platforms on March 7, 2025, and will be available in both digital and physical formats.
The EP features tracks recorded during the Buhloone Mindstate era and includes two notable collaborations: “sh.Fe.Mc’s” featuring A Tribe Called Quest and “Stix & Stonz,” which features contributions from hip-hop pioneers Tito of The Fearless Four, Grandmaster Caz, L.A. Sunshine of the Treacherous Three, and Prince Whipper Whip. The original version of the EP, of which only 500 copies were pressed, included six tracks, several of which also appeared on the acclaimed Buhloone Mindstate album, such as “Patti Dooke,” “In the Woods,” and “I Be Blowin’.”
De La Soul’s decision to release this EP follows a significant turn in their catalog’s availability. In 2023, the group made several of their classic albums, including 3 Feet High and Rising, De La Soul Is Dead, Buhloone Mindstate, and Stakes Is High, available digitally for the first time. Much of their earlier work had been kept off streaming services due to sample clearance issues and a prolonged legal dispute with their former label, Tommy Boy Records. This dispute was resolved in 2021 when Reservoir Media acquired Tommy Boy, allowing for the re-release of their music.
The announcement comes amid a bittersweet backdrop, as it follows the passing of founding member David “Trugoy the Dove” Jolicoeur. Despite the tragedy, remaining members Posdnuos and Maseo are committed to continuing De La Soul’s legacy, and plans for a third installment in their Art Official Intelligence series are underway. Additionally, before Trugoy’s passing, the group was reportedly working on two new albums with renowned producers DJ Premier and Pete Rock.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Clear Lake Audiotorium, the collaboration with A Tribe Called Quest highlights the enduring influence and camaraderie within hip-hop’s rich history. This EP offers a glimpse into the creative synergy that defined a pivotal era in music.
