Label: Shaman Work Recordings, Inc.

Grade: B+

Highlight: Represent People

Overview: This veteran crew has been around for a while now, but they still remain as underground and as raw as ever. Founded by Bobbito, Scienz of Life uses “The Blaxploitation Sessions” as a chance to revisit that 70’s style funk, mixed with jazzy riffs and true hip hop in its purest form. Lil’ Sci and I.D. 4 Windz attack the mic with that New York energy you would come to expect from the likes of Talib Kweli. Prior to this release, Lil’ Sci recently teamed up on a collabo with MF DOOM, while I.D. scored the music for the film, “RIZE.” I have to say that half the tracks on this album are dope, while the other half is still above average. Standouts include “Hood Stock (My People),” which is reminiscent of those old Rawkus Records days and its camp of socially conscious emcees. Other heat includes “Top Contender,” “Hip Hop Rwanda,” “Dear Zev (Never Give Up),” and “Represent People.” While the album is filled with downloadable tracks, there are a few dozers including the R&B tinged, “Count On My Soul.” All in all, this album should be in your deck for a good while. It goes to show that you don’t have to be the biggest name in the game to make quality music for the hip hop community.

Posted by J-Hize on Tuesday, August 1st, 2006 and is filed under SICKWIDIT, REVIEWS, CD.