Formed in Oakland by successful solo rapper Del The Funky Homosapien, Hieroglyphics quickly became a favorite of "backpack" or "conscious" hip hop fans. Featuring eight members, including the four members of Souls of Mischief, Hiero quickly found a following through their live shows at first, then later through podcasts known as "Hierocasts," and heavy website promotion. Their sound is a combination of original jazz and funk beats combined with intelligent and sometimes strong political lyrics.

Hieroglyphics has released 3 studio albums as a colliective as well as countless members solo albums. Their latest, "The Kitchen," was released in July 2013. Hiero is also know for having strong ties to its home-base community of Oakland, where the group throws its annual party titled Hiero-day which features local merchants, restaurants, and craft-beermakers.