Lil Noid – Paranoid Funk (1995)

Lil Noid – Paranoid Funk (1995)

Paranoid Funk marks the debut release produced entirely by Blackout, making it one of the earliest examples of his signature dark, cinematic production style that would later define much of the Memphis underground sound. Released in 1995, the tape captures Lil Noid during a transitional moment. Following his earlier affiliation with Three Six Mafia in 1994, before the group’s nationwide breakthrough. The result is a gritty solo project that leans heavily into eerie synth work, slow-rolling drums, and the cold paranoia that became synonymous with Blackout’s catalog. The tape’s atmosphere feels stripped down and ominous, balancing street storytelling with horror-influenced production textures. Tracks like “Death Row” and “Crucifix” emphasize the bleak tone, while appearances from affiliates such as Tinimaine help connect the release to the broader Memphis network forming at the time. Despite being Blackout’s first full production effort, the sound already feels fully formed. Raw, minimal, and haunting in a way that helped shape the direction of late-90s Memphis rap.

Cassette begins with the first 3 tracks from Lo Key’s – Test My Nutz

Tracklist:

1. Intro

2. Tinimaine – Try Me If You Want To Try

3. Death Row

4. Load My Clip

5. Crucifix

6. Binghampton Bound Bitch

7. Dedications

https://untitled.stream/library/track/Rfh0034bwciJ7qU7GkMe3