With some of the industry’s most notable legends backing the D&D studios in New York the reign of the underground continues. Seven years ago D&D released its first compilation ‘The D&D Project‘ which featured the work of Jeru the Damaja and KRS ONE amongst others. The new release ‘The D&D Project II‘ includes Veteran MC Craig-G, along with newcomers Jack Venom, QNC, Scram Jones and Krumb Snatcha.
With this release D&D continues the tradition of representing underground music. Venom’s “It’z Nuttin” is one of the highest rated cuts on the album. Jack is also probably one of the most gifted new lyricists on the Project. Krum Snatcha’s “What’s Life” allows this kat to flow about his demons and his enemies with the Production of another legend Easy Mo Bee. The finale of the set includes old school style freestyle with a slew of MC’s which includes all of the aforementioned along with Big Tigger, 8Off Agallah, AZ, Tony Touch and Buckshot. Another astounding track is “Hot Shit” with Sadat X, Big Daddy Kane, Guru and Greg Nice over Beatminerz production. All hail the wonders of the true MC’s of the game. Another track which probably shows the state of affairs in Hip-Hop today is Jaz-O and the Imobiliarie’s “Love Is Gone.” The production by Premier, is the perfect backdrop for Jaz’ flow, which is subliminally directed at Jay-Z. The flyness of the project comes in the form of production by various producers. D&D chose to use a wide range of Producers, which includes Premier. Easy Mo Bee, Alchemist, Domingo, Arabian Knight, Curt Cazal and Da Beatminerz. One would wish that all the flows simply complemented the music.
Even though The D&D Project is a needed release in Hip-Hop today the album falls a little short in comparison to the original. The kats featured on the project have gained success and will continue to gain respect amongst their peers and will hopefully pick up some new fans along the way. All in all even though the project will move some die-hard underground fans, sequels are sometimes better left alone.
