Rapster Records concludes its trilogy of J Dilla’s best tracks with Dillanthology3. Prior volumes focused on his freelance production and his remixes; this one concentrates on his solo work. Set for release on October 13, it should kill speculation by gossipy webheads that the Dillanthology series is an unauthorized cash grab; one of its tracks is “Reality Check,” the standout single from the “Ma Dukes” Yancey-approved Jay Stay Paid.

Also, be on the lookout for a Dilla box set from Rapster; no word yet on whether it will simply compile all three volumes or offer additional material. If it’s the latter, then Jay Dee’s classic “Fuck the Police” needs to be included.

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On June 22, Rapster/!K7 will issue Dllanthology2: Dilla’s Remixes For Various Artists, its second collection of vintage J Dilla tracks. Some fans criticized the first installment, Dillanthology for having too many familiar cuts. But with relatively obscure Dilla remixes for Masta Ace, Busta Rhymes and Mood, this one should satisfy the Internet rabble. (July 3 update: The release date has been pushed back to July 7.)

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Philly rapper/producer Lushlife has a new album coming out via !K7 subsidiary Rapster. Set for release on June 23, Cassette City features contributions from Camp Lo, Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend and Ariel Pink, of all people. While not as well known here as overseas, Lushlife may ring some bells — in 2005 he issued West Sounds, a popular mashup of Kanye West’s The College Dropout with the Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds. (June 19 update: The release date has been pushed back to July 7.)

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On March 31, !K7 imprint Rapster Records will kick off Dillanthology, a series of compilations dedicated to the late James “J Dilla” Yancey’s work. The first installment will focus on his production for other artists, and include classic singles such as the Pharcyde’s “Runnin’” and De La Soul’s “Stakes Is High.”

“In his brief 32 years J-Dilla, otherwise known as Jay-Dee created and shaped a new sound for Hip-Hop that inspired beat smiths, MCs and music lovers around the globe,” reads the press material for the album. “In this first Volume of the Dillanthology tribute series we focus on some of his classic productions for artists including Busta Rhymes, The Pharcyde, Erykah Badu, Slum Village, The Roots and Common.

“This is the first in a series of planned albums focusing on different aspects of the illustrious producer’s career and should be seen as a tribute to his memory and spirit. In the coming months, look for separate volumes for both his remix work and production on his own projects.”

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