Future Development is Del the Funky Homosapiens third album and, following his departure from major label Elektra, his first solo full-length for his independent label, Hieroglyphics Imperium Recordings. Originally released on cassette in 1997, and later reissued on CD and vinyl in 2002, the album largely relied on in-house production from Del along with contributions from Hiero crew members A-Plus, Opio, and Toure. The only guest feature on the album is from crew member Casual, who joins Del on the energetic Checking Out The Rivalry.

Sonically, Future Development bridges the funk-heavy stylings of Dels debut with the darker, more futuristic textures he explored on No Need for Alarm. Lyrically, Del refines his rapid-fire wordplay with sharper thematic focus, tackling life in Oakland, societal observations and hip-hop culture, all with a blend of humor, streetwise insight, and multi-syllabic dexterity. Ultimately, the album captures a snapshot of his progression from raw talent to a more conceptually matured songwriter. It remains a significant and under-appreciated chapter in Dels evolution, showcasing early seeds of the creativity and independence that would come to define much of his career thereafter.

Tracklist:

1. Lyric Licking
2. Stress the World
3. Why You Wanna Get Funky
4. Don’t Forget the Bass
5. Faulty
6. X-Files
7. Future Development
8. Corner Story
9. Love Is Worth
10. Del’s Nightmare
11. Games Begin
12. Town to Town
13. Checkin Out the Rivalry Casual

UPC: 826257047410
Label: Rhymesayers
Release Date: 6.26.26
Format: Vinyl