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.

1. LYRIC LICKING

2. STRESS THE WORLD

3. WHY YOU WANNA GET FUNKY…

4. DONT FORGET THE BASS

5. FAULTY

6. X-FILES

7. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

8. CORNER STORY

9. LOVE IS WORTH

10. DELS NIGHTMARE

11. GAMES BEGIN

12. TOWN TO TOWN

13. CHECKIN OUT THE RIVALRY feat. CASUAL