Admitted. This album did really surprise me. Having heard a few of the songs (Make you feel this way and Paragraph President), I knew that I was going to get a class album, but this good? I did not expect. The basics first: For anyone who doesn't know Blackalicious I can tell that the group consists of two people; DJ Chief Xcel and MC Gift to Gab (don't ask about the name, mkay?). Together they form the group called Blackalicious. What is noticable about this little group is their style. Gift To Gab's unique voice, and lightning fast way of rapping is sure to amaze everyone (and if not, you're truly not supposed to listen to hiphop).
Likewise, one can only be amazed by the skills shown by the DJ of the group, Chief Xcel. His beats are always spot on. Although he did not produce every single track on the cd, he produced or co-produced all but one. And it shows. Most of the beats are quite melodic, and if you're in doubt that he's on level with Gift To Gab, then let me dement all rumours at once. He's amazing. No other word for it.
Now, the album itself, spans over 17 tracks, and lasting an amazing 74 minutes (well helped on the way with the track release which lasts approx. 10 minutes. The tracks are varied and it's quite certain that there's something for everyone. 4000 Miles provides an excellent quite rocking beat, whilst featuring Chali 2NA of Jurassic 5 and Lateef the truth Speaker. In the other end we have "Make you feel this way", a truly unbelievable track, in the more quiet and philosophical end. The only common denominator I could find for the album is the funky 70's inspired, yet always fresh beats. The album features an amazing list of guest star appearances, including but not limited to J5, Ben Harper, Saul Williams, Dilated Peoples and so many other.
Conclusion: If I haven't said it already, I'd like to say it now. This album is truly the one experience I'm not that likely to forget in let's say... the next 5 years? Only downside is the choruses which are a bit dodgy on one or two of the tracks. But they shouldn't really be the reason for you not to buy this album. It's one of those experiences which gets better with every listen. So. If you dig thoughtfull, but varied and fastflowing hiphop, this is the one album you should get this year.