Rakim has spent the last 20 million years teasing and talking about a new album. First it was Oh My God, a collaboration with Dr. Dre that never made it out of the studio. Then it was The Seventh Seal. Actually, he barely talks about his new album these days. I know, I just contradicted myself. However, if you consider that Jay-Z has given more interviews this year than Ra has given in the last 4 years combined then you’ll understand. And if you’re fortunate enough to chase him down for an interview, he’s usually tight-lipped about details.

I should know, I was one of the few recipients of a Rakim interview. Back then, Ra almost swore in the name of Eric B’s godforsaken gold chain that he had a single scheduled for fall and an album soon after. I’ve changed my calendar three times and we’re still waiting.

Rakim is back with another interview, in which he swears he has a new single, “Holy Are You,” slated to drop on July 28th and an album to follow. Excerpts of his Billboard interview below:

The story behind Seventh Seal:

The seals are from the Bible- Revelations and the coming of the Apocalypse. But Islam, Judaism, Christianity: all have a version of the same events. The Lion of Judah breaks the seven seals one by one, each imparting knowledge and inflicting catastrophe, ending with seven trumpets announcing the end of Times. After the Apocalypse, God rises from the ashes to recreate the Kingdom, taking only the greatest elements from the past with them.

In case you’re still holding your breath for Oh My God:

BB: Does this album contain any material from the unreleased album you did with Dr. Dre or is it all new music?
RAKIM: No, that’s locked down in the lab for now. This is me live from New York City, everything brand new.

It’s worth noting that there are at least 5 different companies involved in the release and distribution of The Seventh Seal: Ra Records, Tuscan Villa Entertainment, SMC Recordings. Distribution, Fontana, and Universal Music Group. History teaches us that the more labels that are involved in your deal, the tougher it is to get everyone on the same page, which could ultimately affect the release date.

Don’t quote me on this, but Rakim’s 7th Seal is tentatively scheduled for Sept. 15th.

Rakim Ready To Release ‘The Seventh Seal’ [Billboard]