Unfinished Business is one of the great hip-hop sophomore albums, in a category populated by such powerhouses as Public Enemy’s It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back (1988), Jungle Brothers’ Done By the Forces of Nature (1989), Boogie Down Productions’ By All Means Necessary (1988), and Eric B. & Rakim’s Follow the Leader (1988).
 
After making their initial artistic statements, these artists found their next gear, proving to the audience that they were equipped for longevity.
 
Unfinished Business is a clear step up both lyrically and musically for EPMD. Both Erick and Parrish were much more confident on the mic this time around. They sound seasoned and comfortable, as their delivery is sharper, their abilities more refined.