Toolshed presents Timbuktu, "Stranger Danger"
Urbnet
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
London, Ontario’s Timbuktu has been slanging it in Canada's underground hip-hop scene as part of the collective Toolshed for years, but on this, his debut solo disc, he’s ready to step out and make his presence be known. Off the top with “Rock Radio” we’re presented with a masterful taste of wordplay, scratching, and a dope beat. Real talk, this is what hip-hop is supposed to be about. With the bulk of the production handled by Toronto’s Fresh Kils, featuring appearances by El Da Sensei (“The New Science”), D-Sisive (“X-Files” and “Smell the Glove”) and Ghettosocks (“Authority Figures”) to name a few, this really is a showcase of some of Canadian hip-hop’s hidden talents. What you’ll love about each track is the few seconds of audio dialog at the beginning of each tune. There’s nothing better than the feel of an artist’s personality. On “Lead by Example,” Timbuktu’s flow is perfect; and the story he tells in each song is cheeky but so good. You’ll love the Tribe Called Quest sample “Can I Kick It” throughout that track. Other standout songs include “Fishcakes,” “The New Science” and “Stomp,” with their funky beats and Timbuktu's lyrical prose, it just doesn’t get much better than this. If this is the beginning, you have to be excited for what is yet to come. 4/5
The Extremities, "The New Tonic: CBC Remix Sessions
"
CBC Radio
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
From the masterful minds of Toronto producer Fresh Kils (samplers/keyboards) and Halifax’s Uncle Fester (turntables) we have this jazz-hip-hop album. Does anyone remember back in da’ day when hip-hop and jazz were in love? Well, The New Tonic is a beautiful flashback to just that. With guest appearances from Ghettosocks (“Liquor to Pandas”), Jorun (“Listen”) and Fiz (“The Way I Feel,” Square One” and “Listen”) holding down the lyrics, you fall in love with this album from the start. While this disc only contains ten tracks, it is succinctly produced and would have made a great ’45 LP in years past. On “Bungie” and “Driveby” you experience what can happen when sampling and mixing are masterfully handled. It’s synchronicity at its best. Towards the disc’s end, “Funky For Joy” and “3 in the Key” slow the tempo down just enough to the point where you almost forget that this is a hip-hop album, not a jazz disc. But, that’s what makes The New Tonic so great. It’s in a league of its own, and so too are The Extremities. 4/5
Factor, “Lawson Graham”
Fake Four
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan-based Factor is his own kind of hip-hop artist. Using the Prairies as his backdrop, Lawson Graham is a very distinctly sounding disc – part folk rock, but mostly hip-hop. On “Ain’t Nothin’ Gonna Change (ft. Barfly & Heresy Mae),” Factor manages to not let his rapping overpower the vocals and vice versa. It is really refreshing to listeng to masterfully created music. The album is meant to be an ode to Factor’s grandfather, whose photo is actually on the cover of the record. Tracks like “Oh Oh Andy (ft. Nomad)” may catch you a bit off guard because of the not-so-hip-hop vibe, but it's again a throw back to another time when instrumentation was minimal and lyrics were simple. It might not be everyone’s flavour, but it’s a courageous move from Factor. “More Than Love (ft. Kirby Dominant)” has a vibrant upbeat rhythm and lyrics that might remind you of a lot of groups from the ‘90s. Thank goodness someone is keeping party hip-hop music alive. Other guest appearances include Josh Martinez (“Popstravaganza”), Moka Only (“Went Away”), and Gregory Pepper (“Missed the Train”). Overall, Lawson Graham is a solid disc from a Canadian hip-hop solider. 4/5
Ron Contour aka Moka Only, "Saffron
"
Fake Four
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Whether it’s Daniel Denton or Moka Only, with each release, a new layer of lyrical prose is laid down. Once again, Ron Contour is the name of choice Saffron the album, and together, it's musical poetry at its best. Contour is Canadian hip-hop’s true chameleon. What you’ll notice first about this disc is the short running time for each track, but what he lacks in length, Contour more than makes up for in substance. Off the top on “Check it Out” he announces he’s in the building and calls for us, the listener, to check him out. To be fair, the album is in collaboration with producer Factor, so perhaps all the credit can’t be levied on Contour because the beats on Saffron rival the song’s lyrics. On “Diner” and “Whipple Tree,” in particular, the beats are banging, and the lyrics are equally as fly. Contour is definitely a chilled out Moka, and it works in a grand way. “Prairie Wind” represents the Western Canada duo, and it's one sweet groove. You can tell these guys have a sense of humour and that is what hip-hop needs right now, not more bling, but its humour side. Songs like “Cheese Toast Feast” and “Hop Scotch” contain several hilarious lyrics. Overall, Saffron is another notch on the Contour aka Moka Only belt. 4/5
Manafest, "The Chase"
Fontana North
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
It’s a beautiful thing to watch the progression of someone’s career. Manafest (aka Chris Greenwood) is one such example. As a follow-up to 2008’s Citizen Activ, this Canadian rapper is taking rap rock to the next level a la Limp Bizkit but don’t get it twisted, he’s no carbon copy, this guy is his own brand. On “No Plan B” and “Supernatural” Manafest’s voice is clear, his message is hard-hitting, edgy and the kind of track you blast with excitement. Throughout his career, since Glory (2006) he’s been dubbed a Christian rapper, and on “Every Time You Run,” “Renegade,” “Fire in the Kitchen,” all featuring Trevor McNevan of TFK, the Christian rock band, this genre is ever present but it should not deter the haters of Christian hip-hop, this album has heart and message, but also rocking beats. For example, “Bring the Ruckus” and “Avalanche” have aggressive guitar riffs and enticing rap lyrics, which encourage you to do nothing else but turn this bad boy up. The Chase, produced by Adam Messinger, who has also worked with Chris Brown, JoJo, and Justin Bieber, spices up Manafest’s edge factor, and on this disc, it's a smashing success. 4/5
Sole and the Skyrider Band, “Plastique”
Reviewed by Vee Manzerolle
Anticon is the collectively owned record label we have to thank for Sole and the Skyrider Band’s Plastique. Tim Holland, better known as Sole, is actually one of founding members of Anticon. Sole has a reputation for being a distinguished member of the experimental hip-hop movement and this reputation is apparent through his latest album with the complimentary accompaniment of the Skyrider Band. The band showcases the skill and musical talent of three musicians: Bud Berning who acts as producer, John Wagner on drums, and William Ryan Fritch, who is a man of all musical trades. Some key factors on why this new album is such a separate entity from Sole’s previous work has a lot to do with where it draws its inspiration from and of course Sole’s own journey of an existence in isolation. Sole’s first record drew inspiration from apocalyptic imagery in comparison with his latest album with the Skyrider Band that has chosen to draw inspiration from philosopher Jean Beaudrillard, more specifically his idea that “when the spectacle took over, man ceased to be a man.” Sole has spent the last two years living in a cabin in the middle of Coconino National Forest in Arizona. He left all social ties behind with no access to communication devices like the telephone, surrounding himself completely with books and the surrounding environment. Beaudrillard is known for being a critic of contemporary society and this album shares a common link with similar criticism of its own using hip-hop as its instrument to convey those messages. From the first track “Children of Privilege” to the last track “Black” this album is packed with profound lyrics and commanding beats. Noteworthy tracks include: “Battlefields” and “Longshots”. This is an innovative album that pushes hip-hop as a genre forward into a unique and intelligent direction. Sole and the Skyrider Band’s Plastique is far from conventional, and that’s why it undeniably deserves a listen and maybe even a space within your own music collection. 4/5
Brinson, "Escaping Me"
Godchaserz Entertainment
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
A Christian hip-hop album? For some, that sounds like an oxymoron. But, on Escaping Me, Brinson Wright reminds us that it is actually possible. The album isn’t perfect, far from it, and it does run a bit long with 16 tracks, but it is definitely worth a listen. Escaping Me can best be described as gospel’s heartfelt soul, meets hip-hop’s hard hitting beats. On “Long As I Live” (ft. Rossi), Brinson’s lyrics are tight, and the hook is equally as solid. This track also has some of that magic of classic hip-hop where lyrics convey a very clear message that’s inspirational as it is funky. You just can’t go wrong with that combination. If you’re a little turned off by the excessive shout outs to Jesus, this isn’t the album for you. It’s pretty much on every track. For example, “We Need the Saviour” exemplifies everything that Christian hip-hop is about, which is social commentary paired to praise. The only negative with the album is that its beats are at times overshadowed by preachy lyrics. “These Are Things”, “It’s Alright” (ft. Rossi), and “Things You Shouldn’t Hear” are examples of where Brinson’s lyrics are a bit over-the-top and so you find attention wandering a bit. But, on “Hear What I’m Talking” (ft. Knine, Tenth Leper), the dirty south beat, with its hard thumping baseline and choppy rhythm makes you want to get your praise and groove on at the same time. Whether or not you’re a fan of Christian rap, if you’re looking for an album that’s clean, inspirational, and has a few solid beats, Escaping Me is worth a listen. 3.5/5
Solid Mas, “Bankrush and DJ IV Present: The Show Off Mixtape
"
Bankrush
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, Solid Mas has emerged as a force to reckon with. Mixed and cut by Halifax’s DJ IV, The Show Off Mixtape, really is a show off of all that Mas has to offer, and you will be impressed. Standing 22 tracks long, this is a true mixtape. It starts off with a message on “Grapevine,” which makes good use of Marvin Gaye’s classic. On “Legacy,” “Criminology Rap,” “Save Your Soul” and “Keep It Real” it’s glaringly obvious that this guy is angry but his observations about life, hip-hop, and human behaviour are as entertaining as the beats of each track. “Ride On (featuring Amy E)” and “Child Lost” are two standout tracks with their hard rocking beats, clever rhyming and conscious lyrics. When people ask the question, what does Canadian hip-hop sound like? With albums like this one, you can now point them in the direction of Solid Mas. Seriously, this dude’s got mad skills. Another point to mention is the scratching on this disc; a lot of mainstream hip-hop album’s don’t use it as they used to, but here, Mas gives it just enough love. 4/5
Buy It: Myspace
Novel, “I Am Future Black President EP”
Capital Records
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Novel’s I Am Future Black President is a slight glimpse into one of the most anticipated releases of 2009, The Audiobiography, due out later this year. Novel is a definite rose amid a lot of thorns. His music is telling you something; it takes you on a journey while it gets your head nodding. On “I Am (feat. Ben Folds, Talib Kweli and Spree Wilson)” Novel sets the EP’s tone with a conscious tune about possibilities and hope. You really can’t go wrong when you team up with Talib Kweli. On “Wild West” Novel continues on the message front with a tune about gun violence but the beat is so fresh that it keeps a great balance between consciousness and fun. “Damn” and “Sista” show us a more gentler side to Novel, the former being a gritty love side, and the latter, a brilliant re-mix of “Miss Celies Blues” sung by Shug Avery in the Color Purple. It is hard to envision a man singing this song, but after listening to Novel’s version, it all makes sense. Finally, the EP comes to a close with “Fly Away (feat. KnivezOut),” a heartfelt inspirational track that highlights yet another side of Novel’s talents. He’s part singer part songwriter part rapper but all talent, and having produced for the likes of Alicia Keys, Leona Lewis and Beyonce, 2009 will undoubtedly be Novel's time to shine. 4.5/5
Circle Research, “Who?”
Melting Pot Music
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Coming straight out of the T-Dot, Circle Research (Astro and Nik T) are two real hip-hop heads who live, eat and breathe the music. And on this release, the duo has compiled what they call a “Donuts” style throwback record – 36 tracks but only 38 minutes long. Based on classic hip-hop breaks and samples, it might feel a little dated at times or bit disconnected, but once you listen to the recording a few times over, you appreciate that that’s exactly what Circle was going for. It’s difficult to shout out particular songs on this disc because the running time of each is so short – like the true mixtape that it is – but you’ll be able to recognize the lyrical talents of the likes of Q-Tip, Common, Eric B. and Rakim, MC Lyte, KRS-One and many more. Who? is the kind of album you listen to on a daily basis and never grow tired of. 4/5
Various Artists, “2009 Future Superstars Canadian Rap" 
Brockway Entertainment
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Every year, Brockway Entertainment puts out a best of rap album featuring Canadian hip-hop’s finest (and underappreciated) artists of the year. These are the guys holding it down in the trenches of Canada’s domestic scene. Many aren’t household names but that’s why albums like this are so important. Representing the nation from coast to coast, the album starts off jumping with Toronto-based Arabesque’s “Marlboro Man,” with its funky beat and catchy hook, it is followed by Edmonton’s Cadence Weapon and “Real Estate”, “Scream” by Toronto’s Louwop, and “Rigodon Dance” by Common Unity representing Montreal, Quebec. Other notable artists featured on this disc include Enfield, Nova Scotia’s Mic Boyd (“Michael’s Mystery”), and Tru Paz (“Country Road remix featuring Esko Levi”). Canadian hip-hop is so diverse from its beats to its rhymes, and this disc provides a sampling of just that. Find out more about each artist and download the disc at www.brockwayent.com. 4/5
Sepalot, “Red Handed” 
Compost Records
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Hip-hop has truly evolved. And Sebastian Wiess aka Sepalot is the perfect example of just that. His sound can best be described as part hip-hop part electronica. With hip-hop heavyweights like Detroit’s Frank N Dark and other guest spots from Germany’s Miss Platinum, Red Handed is like the majority of hip-hops albums nowadays – it’s jam-packed with guest spots. And while that has become a little annoying, in this case, Sepalot makes up for it with original beats and creative lyrical prose. While there’s a lot to take in on this 17-track set, “Jump,” “She Likes Me” and “Go Get It” are three standouts, and we’re not even past the half way point. “Go Get It” featuring Ladi6, with its funky beat and sassy vocal really does solidify Sepalot’s undeniable talents. “From the Get Go” featuring Frank Nitty is very much in that ol’ school style of rap music, you know, where you could actually decipher what the rapper was saying and the message of the song. Real hip-hop heads will also appreciate “September,” while just an interlude, its funky beat and scratching is exactly what the genre is all about. Then “Rearrange” takes the whole funky beat thing to another level of funkiness. Red Handed is a very creative project that deserves more than just a listen or two. 4/5
Manafest, “Citizens Activ”
Fontana North
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Citizens Activ is the follow-up disc to Chris Greenwood’s (aka Manafest) Glory. While some want to call him a “Christian” rapper, this Toronto-native is above labels, and on this release, he proves he’s a true original. Tracks like “So Beautiful,” “Free” and “Top of the World” wonderfully blend his unique style of rap-rock. Often compared to Linkin Park or Kid Rock, this guy’s flow is hard core. “Good Day” is also a standout tune, with its slow tempo beat and catchy hook. There’s really not much you can say that’s bad about this album. It’s not exactly full of club anthems, but Manafest doesn’t do music for clubs, he does music for music’s sake, and hip-hop is supposed to be about something. From start to finish, Citizens Activ is his personal story – without the usual assortment of cuss words. Purest might not appreciate Manafest’s heavy rock vibe, but you can’t deny the honesty of his lyrics. 4/5
Mic Boyd, "Lost In The Woods"
Phantom Sound & Vision
Reviewed by Martin John
A barrage of East Coast breeze and weed smoke, Mic Boyd's solo effort is a day in a the life of small town Enfield, Nova Scotia. Mic's natural, unapologetic charisma is what makes this album work; conveying stories filled with friends moving out west, struggling with ladies, and moving out of his mom's house. Produced by his brother, Classified (Luke Boyd), the album is thematically loose (Lost in the Woods) and cluttered with three vocal tracks. "Lost" is an album steeped in funk, jazz and seventies rock licks, and one can be pictured blaring nationwide in university dorm rooms. A musical National Lampoon, Mic's verses are lyrical pranks that ooze from his mouth like warm butter. Tracks like "Guess Who's Back", "Get Me Started", and "True Love" hit hard with intelligent stanzas, and party-making beats. "Michael's Mystery" is a hidden gem with a fantastic sax sample, hand claps and the sickest rhymes about "Scooby-Doo" set to wax. Throughout the album and especially on "A Good Day", Mic drops the rap for sing-song verse, and while it might embarrass others, Mic somehow makes it work. Look forward to hearing Mic on "Christmas with the Boyds" this winter. 3/5
Outlines, “Our Lives Are Too Short”
Sonar Kollektiv
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Our Lives Are Too Short is the debut album from this French trio, and what a debut. This funky hip-hop project is complimented by producer Irfane and Jerome Hadey, and graffiti artist Jay1, who lends his skills to the artwork. From the start, Outlines hits you with “Show Me (feat. Beat Assailant),” a playful tune that’s quickly followed by the title track, which is even more hype. Next is “Now That I’m Free” featuring the RZA, of Wu-Tang fame. This tune flows so seamlessly that you might forget it’s a hip-hop track at first, but once the RZA hits the mic, you quickly remember what it’s all about. If you’re not sure about the album yet, once you hear “Listen To The Drums,” with its rhythmic high hats and enticing accompaniment, it’s sure to seal the deal. Then there’s “Back to 1984,” an instrumental song that’s a nice throw-back track to the electro-beats and sonic vibes of the early ‘80s. Finally, “Waiting In Line (feat. Beat Assailant)” towards the album’s end is a nice downtempo song with a chill kind of flow. Ultimately, Our Lives Are Too Short is a refreshing album that’s a positive sign, we hope, of things to come. 5/5
Eulorhythmics, "Extended Play"
All Natural
Reviewed by Eitan K
From the very beginning, Extended Play elicits memories of a different time, when Jazz-rap was at the forefront and the Native Tongues still dominated hip-hop. With a flow reminiscent of Wyclef Jean, Mos Def and Pras Michel, Chicago native Adad delivers positive yet realistic lyricism with a compelling voice. Most importantly, the group’s talented Kenny Keys has composed a solidly produce album with an emphasis on soul samples, eliciting a somewhat nostalgic sound that disregards the spare beats so popular amongst his contemporaries. Tracks like "7am," "Drama" and "L.I.V.E" stand out as the album's most remarkable songs, though each of the album's ten tracks will deliver a much absent fix of an era when Main Source, Organized Konfusion and the Fugees were still together. Emphasizing a production standard that has for the most part faded from sight in mainstream hip-hop, this album provides a fix of the lush sound that has drowned in a sea of sample-clearing lawsuits and synthesized club beats. 4/5
Brockway Biggs, “In Awe Of Simplicity”
Brockway Entertainment
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Brockway Biggs aka Pimp Tea is one of those artists that make you remember what hip-hop’s supposed to be about – lyrics. Born in New Brunswick, Biggs has since relocated to Ottawa but In Awe Of Simplicity maintains a very east coast vibe, with it’s slower tempo and incredibly sarcastic lyrics. While you’ll still vibe to the album’s beats, it’s ultimately Biggs’ indelible sense of humour that draws you in. On “Pinch Hitter” Biggs lays down a solid hook that’s paired perfectly to lyrics that actually match the song’s title. Why the hate on Choclair though, Biggs? On “Your Vision,” the album goes in a very positive direction with its catchy lyric about sticking to the right path but then on “Shake Ya Caboose” and “Titty & Thong” he swings you back the other way. That said, in order to appreciate this album, you have to listen to it in its entirety given the fact that each song seamlessly melds into each other creating a kind of holistic experience. Hands down, “So Many Purposes” with its subtle sample of Stevie Wonder’s "Ribbon In The Sky," leaves you in awe of simplicity. Also, several east coast mainstays, like Classified, Hotbox and Nevski lend their talents to most of the beats on the album. 4/5
Theory Hazit, “Extra Credit”
Superrappin
There’s been so much talk in hip-hop lately about the genre being dead. Obviously, all those people who believe such statements are forgetting to look towards hip-hop’s underground scene, which was, is, and will always be the place where real hip-hop lives. Born in Kentucky, currently residing in Cincinnati, Theory Hazit is definitely continuing hip-hop’s real legacy – music that makes you dance while educating you at the same time. Extra Credit is a complete album that ranges the gamut from conscious hip-hop to soul-rap to raw head popping hip-hop. On “Gossip Synopsis,” Theory drops a hilarious rhyme about people who talk too much, which is laid over top a very funky beat. “Emit Gninrut (Turning Time)” is a weird title and you’re not quite sure how it relates to the song, but you’ll find yourself singing along with the hook nonetheless, it’s just that contagious. Finally, “I Just Wanna Go Home,” with its smoothed out beat combines nicely with Theory’s old school flow. No doubt, Theory will garner comparisons to Common, Talib Kweli or Mos Def, but either way, Extra Credit is an album with 15 tracks that are 15 reminders why hip-hop is alive and well. 5/5
2tall presents Dudley Perkins & Georgia Muldrow, “Beautiful Mindz”
Amalgam Entertainment
Beautiful Mindz was entirely produced by DJ 2tall but is more of a showcase for emcee Dudley Perkins (aka Declaime) and Georgia Anne Muldrow on vocals. It is not often that UK artists collaborate with US artists but on this project, it’s definitely a pairing that works fairly well. On “A Beautiful Mind,” Perkin’s lyrics are conscious, his message is real, and his poetic skills are at their finest. “Colis” is an interesting interlude with its slight bhangra beat and is followed by “Newniss,” a politically charged song that’s more spoken word a la Ursula Rucker than anything else. The only problem with this album is that its flow is very inconsistent and the tracks are so short that it becomes difficult to feel its supposed thought provoking message. Even tracks like “Messagez” towards the album’s end do not reconcile the project’s lack of a discernible point. 2/5
DJ Cutler, “Scion Sampler, Vol. 16”
Scion
Forget what you heard, underground hip-hop is alive and well, and thankfully, Scion is one of the leaders making sure some of the finest DJs and undiscovered hip-hop talent have an outlet for their talents. In this CD sampler, DJ Cutler, winner of Scion’s Free Up Your Mix contest, has put together a wicked mix of conscious hip-hop, highlighting his impeccable scratching techniques and song selection skills. Representing Buffalo, New York, this is the kind of hip-hop that gives you hope that the genre's legacy is being kept alive. It’s likely you’ve never heard most, if not all of the rappers in Cutler’s set, but there are some definite standout tracks like Maspyke’s “Step”, followed by People Under the Stairs’ “Tuxedo Rap” (and a remix version), which is a throw back of sorts to Rapper’s Delight’s clever word play paired to head nodding beats. For those of you old enough to remember that break beat sound from the early 80s, “Brooklyn King” (Masta Killa) will take you back, and then, “T.K.O. Megamix” (Giant Panda) is yet another funky throw back to the 70s funk era. Bottom line, DJ Culter is one of the brightest DJs out there, holding hip-hop down for anyone who dares to step into the bad (meaning good) side. 5/5
Plus, check out each rap artist at the follow websites. If you would like to see more underground hip-hop on SoulMatters, please contact us!
www.fatbeats.com
www.myspace.com/3rdemcee
www.abbrecords.com
www.tresrecords.com
www.nature-sounds.net
www.ubiquityrecords.com
www.myspace.com/avxmusicgroup.com
www.upabove.com
www.ninjatune.net
www.deepthinka.com
www.myspace.com/ajentobeats
www.myspace.com/thenobletruth
www.myspace.com/freshguac
www.myspace.com/nickzerosnintendorevolution
www.loudminoritymusic.com
www.myspace.com/catastrophicbreakfastclub
www.djanubus.com
