Review: Arythmatik - Pre-Algebra EP

Phoenix, Arizona emcee Arythmatik may be unknown now, but he's about to change all that with his first EP: "Pre-Algebra". Arythmatik is not only an emcee but was producer and artist for the album as well. Yes, he actually does it all. Arythmatik produced all the beats, wrote and performed all the raps, and created all the album cover art. The interesting thing is that I'm not sure what the EP showcases more, Arythmatik the emcee, or Arythmatik the producer.

"Pre-Algebra" starts off a little slow with a spoken word sample intro and then transitions to the first track, a slow plodding verse and chorus revealing his "Mind & Heart". I don't feel this track shows the best of Arythmatik's delivery and flow other than the catchy chorus. The slow rhyming sounds too simplistic and off balance. On the other hand, the beat is a slow, dark track that gives the first glimpse of Arythmatik the producer.

The album gets out of first gear and Arythmatik cranks the throttle wide open on track 3 "Polynomials". Production is top notch on this funky banging track. Horns blare over organ drops and funky 70's guitar riffs. The track is layered thickly and features cuts by Pickster One. Arythmatic opens up on this track and his flow is spot on. His word choice and rhyme patterns are well thought out he's comfortable on the mic.

Tempo is slowed again with "Square Roots" featuring guest emcee Fabel. Layered guitar samples float over a hard beat. This track again shows Arythmatik's growing skill behind the boards. His down tempo raps and Fabel's lazy style of delivery are overshadowed by the music itself.

"Southweststylez" and "Absolute values" better highlight Arythmatik's flow. He's got a slightly nasal voice and a staccato delivery reminiscent of B-Real from Cypress Hill. I think in time his flow will continue to mature.

"Factoring" starts off with Chinese sounding flute and grows to include vocal opera samples soaring above deep 808 kicks embellished with scratches by DJ Pickster One. This is another of the his memorable beats; another point scored by Arythmatik the producer. "The Cause" wraps up the Arythmatik lesson. It's a beat that quickly marches along with a repetitious hook. At under three minutes though it's more of an outro.

Arythmatik has done and given his all on this EP. The cover art is unique and well done. The beats show a lot of promise for a budding producer. Hopefully we'll see him on more albums producing tracks. He's got a unique flow that shows potential for future growth. On the constructive side: this EP is a bit rough around the edges and the flows are a bit inconsistent. The slow tracks don't suit his delivery. Despite this, the "Pre-Algebra" EP shows Arythmatik's growing skills and dedication to the game. He's put a lot of effort into this EP and it's showcases not just Arythmatic the emcee, but Arythmatik the producer and artist.

Points: 2.5 out of 5

Review: Vocab Malone - Happy Hardcore

Arizona native Vocab Malone has been pursuing music for several years now. He's appeared on cameos and has even created theatrical hip-hop productions. His first album "Notepad Nomad" introduced the underground to this west coast rapper's unique style. What can I say about Vocab Malone that hasn't been said already? Well, apparently a lot since some folks are still sleeping on this eclectic emcee. With today's proliferation of "thug life" preachin, mean muggin, tough guy emcees Vocab dares to have some fun with his music and break out of the current molds.

Hip-hop's roots are in the basement and block parties of NY. Now it seems an artist will loose all "street cred" if he cracks a smile. Vocab brings back some of the fun with this album. Vocab combines the serious with the lighthearted in his second album Happy Hardcore.

Vocab Malone approaches his raps pretty straightforward. His flow go from conversational, to sing song, to rhythmic depending on the track. He's comfortable with switching up his approach to each track and this album has a wide variety of musical styles present. There are tracks with heavy boom-bap drums and hard DJ cuts like "s'UP!" and "Prime of Life". There are tracks with strong jazzy beats like "A New Home" or sounds of discord on "Notalotalove" and "Yes/No". From happy to sad, harmony to dissonance, Vocab challenges the listener to keep up.

Topics on Happy Hardcore are as eclectic as his musical tastes. At times he opens up his heart and spills his feelings and fears. Daily struggles, depression and money troubles stand alongside carefree energetic tracks celebrating life. Vocab is open about his faith that God will take care of the turmoil around him, and finds strength in that. These individual tracks create an album with a unified theme. Happy Hardcore acknowledges life is hardcore, tough things happen and it's not always perfect, but God will give the strength and joy to cope. So he can be happy with the hardcore.

Vocab has strong support from DJ Cre One who handles all the production on this album. While Vocab and Cre create the backbone of this album they have a strong supporting cast as well. Guest emcees include Lightheaded, Pigeon John, Redcloud and Man of War among others. The turntable scribbles, stabs and flares are courtesy of guest DJ's Skribe, Fidel Castro, Manuel and Bombay.

Stand out tracks are "Prime of Life" featuring Lightheaded with its high energy disco influenced beat. The title track "Happy Hardcore" is another disco laced track that is really put together well and features a nice hook by Bridgett Kern and Bryan Kilgore. "Boo Hoo" is a stripped down track giving a tongue-in-cheek look at being happy in the midst of the daily struggles. Finishing out the album is a great live spoken word performance called “TV Poem”. This and “A New Home” highlight Vocab’s ability as a poet. He shapes words and meanings to serve his purpose and adds depth to the album as a whole.

Happy Hardcore’s strengths are tied to it’s weaknesses however. The variety of musical styles shows diversity but many people may want a more consistent feel to the album. Vocab switches up his flow and delivery depending on what type of track he’s on which may throw off some listeners.

Vocab has given an interesting mix of tempo, style and subject on Happy Hardcore. Cre One does a great job on the production, creating a very diverse group of tracks. Vocab Malone has put together an array of lyrics that show his growth and depth. This sophomore release will appeal to a variety of listeners.

Points: 3 out of 5

Review: DJ Form: On Deck Circle the Next Mixtape

Ok how many of you remember mixtapes! I mean the real thing: the Maxwell 60 cassette with a hand written label or none at all. The type of mixtape that you had to steal or “borrow” from your older brother or friends? These tapes (yes, I said TAPES) were often carefully recorded from late night hip-hop radio, with the commercials omitted by judicious use of the pause button. Perhaps you were lucky enough to pool the resources and pause/record only the best songs to create a veritable eargasm of hits.

For the financially challenged, like your truly, the mixtape represented the only piece of the music world I could afford. There wasn’t money to go out and buy 5 albums, but there was enough money to get a 3 pack of Maxwells (the kind with screws holding them together in case you have to fix a tape jam!). That 3 pack had the potential to hold a years worth of smokin tracks dubbed from friends, family and radio to be passed around among friends. If the mix was hot, “Break the tabs off!”

Social status was improved for those with the latest and greatet mixes so it soon became a competition, and the mixtape industry was born. Fast forward to today and the indistry is still pumping out mixes of artists to wet our appetites. Some “mixtapes” (now on CD) are mere collections of songs and have lost the “mix” element. However, the pinnacle of the industry lies with DJ-mixed performances that provide a non-stop sound assault of hits and potential hits, from established artists and up-and-comers.

Mixtapes get the word out, they capture attention, highlight DJ’s musical tastes and their turntable scratch/mix skills. A true hip-hop mixtape can keep your head nodding, get you hype with cut up mixes, and open your ears to new artists.

This brings up to the Mixtape (CD) at hand. DJ Form, of GRITS fame, has reappeared on the scene with a mixtape of his own. "On Deck Circle the Next Mixtape" featurs DJ Form behind the wheels mixing up a long list of emcees. The entire CD is mixed together for non-stop music and get this, NO SHOUTOUTS! What a relief to grab over an hour of music that has no corny "commercial breaks" or annoying DJ overdubs. With 29 track changes in this mixtape DJ Form takes full advantage of the time behind the table.

The mixes are well done but there are one or two awkward blends. Worth mentioning are several interludes featuring Form working out scratches on the tables. It's always great to hear some good juggling and cuts on an album. He does well in this setting with a classic hip hop DJ approach and execution.

Form chose a crossection of musical styles to showcase. West Coast carefree hip hop, Dirty South bangin tracks and raw East Coast raw raps are all represented. There are some known artists like Braille, Sev Statik and ManChild mixed with newer cats like The Rizewells, Soul Plasma and DJ Form's Incorporated Elements crew to keep this album fresh and diverse. The good thing about this mixtape is that while you'll know some artists or songs, you are sure to discover a few others.

This production is a high quality album that carries the torch of the old style mixtapes. It takes you back to the good old days when mixtapes were traded around and served as THE connection to the hip-hop scene. DJ Form created a mixtape with good blends, good scratches, good music and a variety of styles to choose from. The CD sound quality is high and is a welcome step up from my old cassette mixes. The only real downsides are that some of these songs have been out for a while, and there are a few rough blends between songs that could have been better. Buy this mixtape if you want to sample some new artists and if you want to have that feel-good mixtape experience again, without all the rewinding. This album stands head and shoulders above what's been sold recently in the name of mixtapes. Non-stop music for your head.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Review: Locke and the Chris Wilson Five "Loose Ties"

REVIEW: Locke and the Chris Wilson Five - "Loose Ties"

Locke makes up the emcee element of the Chris Wilson Five. This jazz/fusion group from Spokane, Washington has teamed up with Locke to produce "Loose Ties", a full length experiment in rap, jazz and funk. Guitar, bass, drums, horns, percussion and keys blend together in a live setting to create a jazzy backdrop that Locke rhymes over. Think of it as an emcee moving uptown to a smoky live jazz club and rocking the mic.

Don't judge this "book" by its cover. A glance at the album gives no clue as to what lies within. A black and white and pink (?) album design shows a group of suited guys lounging around, a la the university "glee club". The text and layout resembles an 80's throwback album, unique but somewhat confusing, I thought I had the wrong album. Fortunately, the music overshadows the packaging.

The Chris Wilson Five is a band that plays well together. The musical production is well done. The whole album feels like a one-take studio recording or night club performance. Instruments are layered and intertwined as only a real band can do. Rhodes and bass riffs set the tempo with ever changing drums and percussion weaves intricate patterns over which Locke works. The snare drum sets the 4/4 beat necessary for his rhymes and is sometimes the only consistent thread as the group adjusts and changes the music in typical jazz fashion. Fans of jazz, fusion and live performances will certainly enjoy this album. There is something lost in much of today’s formulaic hip-hop production. It’s refreshing to hear a band and emcee just get down.

Locke does a good job rapping over the music. Without a strong boom-bap on most songs it must have been a bit of a challenge to work with. His mid-tone vocals follow the beat closely and he seems best on mid to faster tempo tracks. Locke seems to jump around on his topics and doesn’t keep a consistent focus. Life, Love and Spirituality abound but the topics seem less important than the delivery.

His easy going style matches the jazzy up tempo tracks. One noticeable aspect of this album is that most of the tempos are similar. This gives the impression, after a few tracks, that Locke is using the same patterns on each song. This does not help him stand out and he sometimes blends into the track. Locke tries to work some lyrical angles in his writing but is still a fairly straightforward lyricist. Locke adds a nice element to these songs but is sometimes overshadowed by the instrumentation.

The album has only 10 songs at slightly over 30 minutes, including an abstract jazz instrumental “Featuresque“. I’d like a few more songs but I know that a musician produced album is a much larger undertaking than your average hip-hop Rapper/DJ offering.

“Loose Ties” by Locke and the Chris Wilson Five is a good niche album. Fans of jazz and fusion will enjoy this twist on the genre. The up-tempo songs shine. They have good flow and progression to them and Locke sounds comfortable on these tracks. This is not your average hip-hop album. It's a heavy dose of live jazz band featuring raps throughout. It should appeal to a variety of people. That may be the real strong point of this album, its broad appeal. Fans of Jazz Fusion and hip-hop alike should enjoy the latest offering from this group of talented musicians and a lyricist.

Score: 3.5 out of 5

Review: Sev Statik - “Slow Burn”

Sev Statik, member of the Tunnel Rats and Deepspace 5 crews, presents "Slow Burn". This veteran rapper is one of the more prolific in the game today. This is his 4th solo album after numerous cameos, group projects and even a few albums under an alias. He's paid his dues, built his street cred and deserves respect. This Albany, NY emcee spits street level raps... straight NY rough style. This is hip-hop from the street for the street.

Sev’s style has matured and morphed slightly on this album. While other offerings were good, this album continues to show the artist’s growth as a lyricist and as an overall artist in relation to beat choice and overall album composition. Slow Burn is a decidedly moody album, exposing sorrow, pain, hope and disappointment. The beats are more diverse and emotive than other offerings and really give a musical depth that well suits the depth of Statik‘s lyrics and delivery.

A diverse array of producers showcase their talent on Slow Burn: Tony Stone, Joey Beats, Shawn J. Period, Relic The Oddity, Finer Arts, JB!!, Dert, Gershom and The Hobbyist. Turntable acrobatics by the likes of DJ Majic, Money Mike, and J-Swift create a stellar supporting cast to Sev Statik’s leadership. It’s like a who’s who of underground up-and-comers.

While each producer has his own style, there is a common feel that keeps the album cohesive. Tracks like “Slow Burn”, “As One” and “Spare Change” are up-tempo gems with cuts, chopped samples and hard kick/snare drum breaks. Contrast these with the mournful “Kept the Break” with its stripped and sad piano loop, “Wasted Tears” haunting vocal samples or the layered sounds of “Line Life”. As an added bonus, between many tracks are short creative musical interludes which seem to further mature the album.

Truth, justice, poverty, greed and personal struggle are exposed like a raw nerve on “Slow Burn”. Sev slogs his lyrical boots through the city’s dank alleys, shining his light on the ills he sees. “Well Traveled” and “Line Life” reveal the heart of a rapper who loves hip hop but struggles with the pain of making good music and a living at the same time. He shares the struggle that goes on inside a man who sees pain all around and believes God has the answer for all of it. More than any individual song’s message though, the entire album comes together to reveal a complex man’s take on a complex world.

Sev Statik's trademark raspy voice and silky flow bless the tracks. His wordplay is excellent; words and ideas intertwine with double meanings and emotive imagery. There is a depth of thought and emotion not often seen in artists. Sev is in the game for the long term. While others may flare up in a burst of light and smoke, Sev will still be here slowly burning and always bringing the heat.

Points: 4 out of 5

Review: Ambassador - "The Thesis"

It's been a while for this member of the Cross Movement. After co-founding the hip-hop group in the late 90's he released a solo album "Christology - In Layman's Terms" in 1999. 6 long years later we now have his sophomore solo album "The Thesis". Despite this time gap, William "Deuce" Branch has been very busy. In that time he's helped release 4 Cross Movement albums, obtained a Masters Degree in Theology, became the President of the non-profit CM Ministries and recorded "The Thesis". Ready to make waves in the music industry once again, The Ambassador has upped his game and has given us another good album.

"The Thesis" is decidedly more upbeat and aggressive than its predecessor "Christology". There are several bangers on this album as well as some more musical tracks yet he has kept a consistent overall feel. Production is mainly handled by Cross Movement partner DJ Official. This NY deejay puts it down with a good mix of sample and keyboard sounds and knows how to keep things fresh from track to track. Guest producers like Todd Bangz on "Oh Wretched Man" and The Saint Man on "My Clothes, My Hair" help add depth to the album.

Ambassador is in top form. He pulls no punches and makes no excuses for his lyrics. He's a man who has strong theological training and convictions and he seeks to reach out and challenge at the same time. He makes clear his beliefs spiritually and theologically. He challenges Christians and non-christians alike to live to higher standards. If you've heard anything from Ambassador you know he's not one to waste words on meaningless rhymes; every word and bar counts. His voice is hard and confident as he uses stories and imagery to make his points. His rhyme patterns are subtle at times and he has an great ability to not let rhyme get in the way of the lyrics.

His thesis is clear: Hip-hop needs Jesus. Where Christology was all about what and who is Christ, this album is about how Christ should affect and influence lives and how He can save the increasingly lost culture of hip-hop.

Standout tracks are the bouncy "Get You Open", the anthem "Feels Good" featuring Truth, the emotional "Oh Wretched Man" and the lyrically poignant R&B influenced “My Clothes, My Hair”. Admittedly, some of the tracks are awkward and not as polished as they could be. Some of the elements added to tracks, like an old hymn, don’t really work well together. Ambassador’s flow stays fairly consistent but sometimes becomes bland and repetitious. Despite these shortcomings the overall feel and production that is “The Thesis” sets the bar for many other artists in the game today.

Points: 3.5 out of 5

Broken heart for Disaster victims

I've watched many reports and my heart is broken. I didn't get much sleep last night and i was praying every time I awoke. My spirit is restless, man, I feel pulled to those in need and to pray.

I figured initially, after hurricane Katrina, that people would be hurting, some dead, but that after 2 or THE MOST 3 days the wealthiest nation on earth would have been able to begin the fundamental aid needed. Now on the dawn of the 5th day I am slack-jawed and crying out to the Lord more than ever.

The most utterly disturbing to me are the following:

Elderly and children now starving for 4 days and with very little water. This 5th day may be the "tipping point" in their LIVES. Death is coming.

Medically needy people are being helped as best they can but are dieing at higher rates now. No medicine, no specialized equipment etc. Now on the 5th day I fear it even greater loss of life after barely surviving for 4 days.

Gangs of heavily armed men terrorizing survivors. Greed for power, money and sex motivated them. They are raping women and CHILDREN. I heard a woman on the phone from the convention center tearfully and fearfully tell of a 10 year old girl that was raped and her ankles were broken. The Gangs are going around stealing what little food and water people have and then even trying to sell it back to them for any money they have. They feel powerful and the lust in them for power, money and sex drives them to further depravity. The one with the biggest guns wins.

Why are snipers hampering the resue efforts? The more aid and help, the less power they have. The less money they can steal and the less people they can rape and terrorize. This is not simply desperation or frustration manifesting itself. It is the bloody raw core of sinful man stripped bare for all to see. We think people doing this type of thing in other countries are barbaric and that it is somehow beneath a "civilized society" like ours for that to happen. Wrong, evil is all around us in this fallen world. Only God's love and grace can save us from ourselves.

The last thing that frustrates me is seeing the busses off-loading an interesting mix of people. I wonder if any of the big strapping men getting off the busses will feel any remorse for having taken the seats on the bus from the children and women still left in the heat and sewage?? The busses should be offloading elderly, children, women with infants and the sick/injured.

There are many stories of heroism and brave survival though.

One man gathered 18 small children from his area and ROWED a boat with them to a safer meeting place. The mothers could not fit on the boat and he had the strength for the journey. The mothers have yet to be seen.

Please PRAY for God's hand of protection on the many people and swift action now on this 5th and critical day, and for the many to come.

Give what you can. Pray always.

Review: Bobby Bishop - "Government Name"

Bobby Bishop - Government Name, Beatmart Recordings 2005


Bobby Bishop? What type of hip-hop stage name is that, you say? Where's the requisite "Lil" or "Young"? I suppose Paul Pope was taken. Well, as Bobby makes clear, this is his real name... his government name. The fledgling record label Beatmart Recordings has now released Bobby Bishop's first full length album entitled "Government Name". Hailing from his hometown of Lynn, Massachusets - Bobby is more than ready to lay his 15 tracks on the line. For the past 5 years he's been building his lyrical arsenal, making several album cameos, released an EP, and had a strong appearance on Beatmart Recordings "Best of Submissions" which helped ink the deal with the label.

The album starts with two up-tempo songs, the title track "Government Name" and "Get Down". Production is handled by Todd Collins, head of Beatmart, who provides his typically bass heavy production and bouncy drum tracks. These hype songs get the album off and running and set the pace for the rest of the album. PeeWee Callins provides the soulful singing on the third track "He Won't Leave You". The match up is solid with sung hooks by Callins, hot raps by Bishop and a swaying track by Collins.

Bobby does a good job of track layout with slower emotive songs separating the up-tempo bangers. The album continues to progress through deep message tracks like "Amy's Song" and bouncy head nodders like "Here We Go" and "Stimulate My Senses". Guests like KJ-52, Pigeon John, Sev Statik and ManChild bless several tracks on the album. Bishop raps about life issues. Topics like his love for hip-hop, struggles growing up or making fun of some of his fellow emcees are fair game. "Government Name" is not without serious messages though. Bishop makes sure that everyone knows that his strength and purpose come from his faith in Jesus. He tackles some tough issues from abuse, or rape to soul-searching. He involves listeners in conversation, without being preachy.

Bobby Bishop has an emotive delivery that bounces along tracks with ease. His mid-tone voice fluctuates for emphasis and is instantly recognizable. He rides the beats with a ease and flair, and his wordplay is not overly complex. He's got a handle on what works and makes sure he delivers. Todd Collins handles all of the album's production and while the fingerprint is there he does a good job of producing a diverse blend of tracks and styles. The mix-down and album quality is excellent. This album has good structure, good rhymes, good beats and great messages.

This is a highly polished freshman album from this New England rapper. Bobby Bishop is not afraid to focus on the entertainment factor of his music. He wants to get people moving and vibing off the album and does a good job of it. It's a mostly lighthearted feel-good hip-hop album aimed to, as one track puts it, "Get your back up off the wall".

While mostly good, every album has it's weak spots. This album could have used some guest producers to add variety. Many of the tracks were at the same tempo and had similar feel to them which is understandable considering the single producer. The group-chant hooks seemed a bit stale after hearing them on many of the songs. It is a personal taste issue, but I would rather hear Bobby keep rapping than hear some of the hooks used. Overall this is a solid effort.

"Government Name" is sure to find its way into a lot of CD players this summer and fall. If you are looking for that good hip-hop feeling pick up your copy now. Bobby Bishop is just getting started and I'm sure you're going to see and hear a lot more of him in the near future.

Points: 3.5 out of 5

Review: Sivion - Mood Enhancement

Review: Sivion - "Mood Enhancement"

Sivion first pinged hip-hop's radar as one half of the group Phat K.A.T.S., the other half being his twin brother. With a few songs and cameos the name started to stick and folks took notice. As the K.A.T.S affiliation dissolved Sivion continued to network and ended up landing a spot on the Deepspace5 crew. While a welcome addition to the soon to be dubbed "super-crew" he was not content to exist only in cameo-land. So now he's presenting his first full length album "Mood Enhancement" on Illect records.

The album is a jazz influenced combination of mellow hip-hop a la Native Tongues of old and new school conscious rap like Common or Talib Kweli. Having said that, this is no copy-cat, faux-intellectual, "me too" album. This is a creative, insightful, well produced and heavy effort that truly belies its freshman status.

Sivion brings out all the stops with guests like Deepspace5, Phonetic Composition, Heather Randall, LaConda, Blaze Won and more on the mic. Freddie Bruno and Harry Krum guest produce alongside Sivion. With 18 tracks though, "Mood Enhancement" doesn't smother the listener with guest after guest. Content to cluster the talent into a few key songs there are plenty of tracks for Sivion alone. Of note is track 9 where the album takes a break with a full length airy jazz set... sans vocals.

This is a good cool out album. At home in headphones or in the whip, this album is clean musically and vocally. This is a great listen as there is no overdone theme yet all songs feed off of each other. "Mood Enhancement" has a good combination of up-tempo and slower songs, showing Sivion's diversity. Whether attacking the mic of just smoothly riding the beats Sivion presents a deliberately moody album. Sivion has a very rhythmic flow, with runs of staccato interspersed with runs of harmonized sing-song raps. The word choice is effortless and Sivion utilizes a storytelling style as opposed to a punchline flow. The rhyme never gets in the way of the message, and the flow never fights the beat. He throws out questions and challenges to the listener as much as he drops knowledge. "What is it"s smooth flow detailing Sivion's spiritual journey transitions into "Glamour Shots" where he touts his lyrical prowess along with partners in crime Keynote, Travii the 7th and Blaze Won.

His mid-tone voice is easily recognizable but has a tendancy to start sounding the same from song to song. When rapping in a group, Sivion truly excells with his vocal tone complimenting those around him with his flow polished in comparison. Word of warning, what makes him great in a group may leave others wanting after an entire solo album if there is not enough diversity. I think he's balanced it well this time around.

Sivion's created a good album in "Mood Enhancement". Solid production backs up intelligent raps. While only a first time solo artist, Sivion shows maturity, experience, depth and more importantly talent. This album has a depth and complexity to give long term playback potential.

Points= 3.5 out of 5

Review - Deepspace5 "Unique, Just Like Everyone Else"

Deepspace 5 started as a group of 5 emcees from various groups who were hanging out and decided to throw together some collab recordings. These humble tracks sent ripples through the underground hip-hop community and revealed the potential success of a full length album. "The Night We Called It A Day" was an underground success; a bit rough around the edges but brimming with raw talent and energy. Fast forward to 2005. Backed by Gotee labels and a few years of individual album releases, countless hours in the studio and months on tour they present "Unique, Just Like Everyone Else". 5 members has grown to 10. Skills like steel have hardened and technique has been honed to a keen edge. This album IS hip-hop.

If you don't know by now, Deepspace 5 (times 2?) consists of Dust, Sivion, Sintax, Manwell?, Sev Statik, Fred B, ManChild, Listener, Beat Rabbi and Playdough. If you think this is too many people to cram into one album, you'd be wrong. Remember, 3 of them are producers and there are a total of only 4 songs that incorporate all 7 emcees. While these 4 songs showcase the full lyrical onslaught that this crew can deliver it's been kept in check to help retain it's impact. The rest of the album consists of random pairings of 3 or 4 emcees maximum. With 19 full songs on this album there is time for everyone to shine. The various emcees play off of each other's sound and style, keeping listener engaged. The brunt of the production is handled by Dust of Mars Ill. The signature chunky drums and chopped samples weaving round brooding strings and basslines provide the foundation. Beat Rabbi and Sivion add their production touches to 6 tracks and the vinyl cuts of Manwell? punctuate 5.

While 19 tracks could have been a recipe for monotony, Deepspace 5 has done an excellent job managing the talent. Think about it as a mixtape more than a crew album. The album is primarily up-tempo but does have variety in tempo and mood.
There is something for every listener on this production. If you like beats, you can spend hours listening to the thickly layered samples and head knocking drums. If you like wordplay then Sev's raspy flow, Listeners rugged rants, ManChild's rolling imagery or Playdough's melodic chants are just the beginning. If you like a message then listen for musings on responsibility, battling or spirituality.

I've listened to "Unique. . ." many times over and while I understand that people appreciate some hip-hop styles more than others I think this album has a place on everyone's shelf. It's hip-hop: pure, elemental, creative, underground and polished. Whatever you want to call your hip-hop "preference", this album has a place in your collection.

There are rare times when an album will reach down inside you and stir your gut. Sparks that rush of energy and gets you hyped up like the horns in the Rocky movie. This is one of those albums that can restore your faith that good hip-hop is still alive an well.

Overall rating - 4.25 out of 5

Review - Bone Circus "The Locals EP"

Bone Circus consists of emcee Eric Craddock and DJ/emcee Sean Patrick. Not your typical clever stage names, but Bone Circus puts on no fronts when it comes to stage presence. The self effacing, humorous approach and lighthearted delivery is a departure from the typical self glorification of most underground hip hop artists these days.

Bone Circus' "The Locals EP" is for the hip-hop purist who likes a traditional loop-based beats and raps. Bone Circus has a familiar feel that keeps your head nodding but a creative approach that is a welcome change from many of today’s “me too” artists. This EP could get lots of rotation due to Bone Circus’ deep layering of samples and ideas that multiple listens will reveal.

Musically, this album starts strong with a stripped down, neck snappin' beat and guest emcee Sivion of Deepspace 5 lineage. With beats handled by Sample based beats. Funky drums laced with chunky sampled instrument and the samples are chopped nicely and punctuated by good drum breakdowns. There is a nice bit of scratching to round out the mix in this EP. There are several short interludes on the EP which hint at the depth this crew has to offer. Beat-breaks, jazzy piano and funky guitar loops abound from Playdough and Blake Knight of Ill Harmonics.

The entire EP has a good upbeat feel. The vocal calisthenics of Eric and Sean mix old school boom bap with some new school avant-garde. They try to strike that delicate balance between classic and cutting edge. Stand out tracks are #1 or #5 which takes a mournful and introspective look around, questioning the hurt in the world. Great use of a Randy Newman sample for the chorus. # 8 brings a more artistic approach with new school hip-hop meeting old school Jazz.

What left me a bit disappointed was the wordplay in some sections of the EP. There is basically good wordplay and a creative approach to the rhythm evident but there are a few songs where it falls flat. Songs like #4 fell short with simple rhyming and a flow that seemed a bit amateur and not up to par with some of the other tracks. With a little more time these rough edges could polish up, with flows being more consistent.

Bone Circus gives a decent performance on “The Locals EP” to introduce themselves to the industry. Eight full songs and two interludes is solid for an EP and shows their creativity, experience and love for basic beat and rhyme hip-hop, no frills needed. Pick up Bone Circus and get introduced to a group that you’ll want to keep track of.

Points: 3 out of 5

Review - Benjiman "Activate"

This album isn't your typical hip-hop album. In fact it's more of a rock album featuring rapped lyrics and sung chorus'. Primarily synth based beats leaning more towards rock than hip hop complete with strumming guitars. My first impression of the album was that there was a middle of the road “heard it before” sound to the album. Despite this there is decent musical production, consistent performances by Benjiman and a positive message throughout. This album could best be described as a hip-hop-rock hybrid along the lines of Linkin Park.

Title track #1 "Activate" and #4 "Outta time" are very similar to Linkin Park’s signature sound. I don't like making straight comparisons to other bands but in this case it's pretty accurate. It's a popular sound for some but these are a little too "me too". The throbbing guitar riff, heavily distorted, over synths in a minor chord are familiar sounds now. Producer Zach Hodges lends singing vocals to the chorus breaking up the rapping of Benjiman. Dark chords often build into frantic crescendo choruses.

Benjiman lays pretty consistent verses through the album. The tempo may change but the cadence and vocal approach remains similar from track to track. The real differences come with the singing treatment given by vocalist and producer Zach Hodges guest Kyle Mitchell. Benjiman uses a forceful rhyme style whether fast or slow. He keeps things pretty consistent on every track and flows smoothly and confidently.

Benjiman wants to put a positive message into the popular music of the day. He talks a lot about being able to go from despair to freedom spiritually. His song "Original 1's" attacks the preconceived notions people have based on looks. Benjiman reminds us to look past external to see the real people, without judging and that, this new generation should be accepted in all its diversity. I felt this album to be a little light on content with only 10 songs. With many EP's having 6-8 songs you expect more from a full length.

For all of its message, clean production and Benjiman's consistent performance on the mic this album fell flat. I'm not a fan of the Rock/Rap mix. While "Activate" does alright fitting into that Genre, it mimics what's been done before. The signing doesn't add the hard edge that is needed and the synth sounding beats lack the spark that a live band would bring. This album might do better in a rock market but as far as a hip-hop album it doesn't stand out to me. If you are a fan of rock and hip hop mixes or high energy music with a message then do yourself a favor and pick up Benjiman's "Activate". I've graded this based on how it stands with most other Hip-hop only albums.

Points: 2.5 out of 5

Waste Management - Trash Talk Review

Waste Management - "Trash Talk" 2004

Waste Management consists of emcees ill-DAY and Meccanism. Hailing from Connecticut and Massachusetts these two emcees have been hitting as many venues as possible in New England and have future plans for Florida. Their debut release "Trash Talk" has been in the works since 2002, with tracks being recorded throughout that two year period. The relatively unknown duo have now unleashed their freshman recording on the masses.

This album has an upbeat feel-good hip-hop flavor throughout and features 3 songs in the Reggaeton style. This style of dance music originated in Puerto Rico as a mixture of Dancehall Reggae, Hip-hop, and other Latin beats. It’s signature sound usually features singing and/or rapping. Waste Management has an upbeat and high energy approach to all of their music. Several guests mix it up on this album and as an intro album it shows promise for the future. There are guest emcees on nearly every track.

The album starts off with "Mixed Emotions" featuring Braille and "Fists Up" featuring Bobby Bishop which are standout tracks on this album. The high energy beats and tight vocals by all involved get "Trash Talk" off to a good start. Not only do these songs showcase two of the strongest beats on the album, but also two of the best lyrical offerings. While the experienced guests add variety and a mature presence, they begin to steal the spotlight from ‘The Management’. Ill-DAY and Meccanism both use a fast lyrical delivery with occasional sing song phrases. The use of Spanish phrases shows creativity on their part as does the way ill-DAY and Meccanism work together on harmonized hooks or phrases. There are 3 songs on this album completely in Spanish which bring this album to another level. They are Reggaeton style tracks which typically feature more of a mix between singing and rapping. Unfortunately, one of these songs, "Necessito", isn’t the best showing by Waste Management. This Reggaeton track isn’t up to par with what ill-DAY and Meccanism seem to be capable of.

The production on the hip-hop tracks is good. Production handled by SirRocdomz (Syntax Records) who shows good sample and drum kit choice along with good scratching and cutting by DJ’s Drenalin and Deftone. The last three Reggaeton tracks were lacking in sound quality however. The beats seemed to be synth based with a bit too much treble. The bass was lost and didn’t have enough punch to really give the tracks the needed thump for the clubs. Overall, there are some rough edges that can be smoothed out on this album which is understandable as this is the crew’s first serious offering.

There are a good 5 tracks that could get major play off this album among hip-hop heads. If you are already a fan of the growing Reggaeton style then skip over to the last three tracks. If you are new to Reggaeton then it’ll be a good introduction into this Latin style. It is a mixture of musical influences based around upbeat and danceable rhythms.

As a whole, this album show’s the potential this group has for the future. Good hip-hop beats, a few creative twists and a willingness to dive into the Reggaeton style on a debut album show Waste Management is ready to take chances and reach out to new audiences. Ill-DAY and Meccanism are newcomers settling into their stride. There’s still work to be done musically and lyrically to smooth some rough edges and bring another dimension to the group. The musical creativity shown goes a long way to help Waste Management stand out from the crowd. This album contains only 9 full tracks, 3 of those are Reggaeton sung in Spanish. Unfortunately, for a debut album, there are too few songs and too many guests. This keeps the listener from really getting a feel for Waste Management’s ability to carry a full album on their own. Having said that, Waste Management has put together a creative album in "Trash Talk" that is certain to open doors for this new duo. There are several great guest spots worth catching and a good showing by this tag team of ill-DAY and Meccanism. They’ve shown their musical diversity and have compiled an album that is sure to find it’s place in CD players acoss the country.

POINTS - 3 out of 5