Vordul Mega – The Revolution of Yung Havoks 7/10
The ying to the others yang duo of Vast Aire and Vordul Megallah is on a hiatus. Break up rumors have come, gone, and come again, but the Harlem emcees have maintained they are just on temporary solo missions. Vast Aire already went for his this spring, and while it was a good album, it was disappointing. Now it is Vordul’s turn to show and prove on the solo tip. Vast’s effort showed that Vordul was critical in his complimenting his partner. “The Revolution if Yung Havoks” shows very much the same thing for Vordul. Despite some slick production from the likes of Blockhead, Belief and The Professor, Vordul is not overly impressive. His everyday street tales beg for an injection of Vast’s philosophizing. Which is probably why “Handle That” featuring Vast is among the best songs. In fact, the other standouts such as “Believe,” “In The Hood,” and “Spitamatic” all feature guests (Jean Grae, Karnage, and C-Rayz Walz respectively).
Oh No – The Disrupt 7.5/10
Westcoast indy powerhouse Stonesthrow is best known for their prolific super producer Madlib. Unbeknownst to many, Otis Jackson Jr. isn’t the only Otis Jackson Sr. offspring with musical talents. Younger brother Michael ain’t no slouch either. Not that MJ, I’m referring to emcee/producer Oh No. With the help of Madlib (6 tracks), J-Dilla and Kan Kick (1track each), “The Disrupt” is a fine addition to the Jackson family catalogue. Among the finest Oh No offers up here is the Madlib bangers “Right Now” and “WTF,” the video game-styled “The Ride,” and the very accessible “I Can’t Help Myself” featuring Staci Epps. Great little debut that is definitely worth your time.
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Edo G featuring Pete Rock – My Own Worst Enemy 8/10
The blossoming hip-hop scene in Boston owes it all to one man; Edo G. With all due respect to Guru (who got his in the BK), it was Edo G and his Bulldogs that put Boston and Roxbury on the map with classics like “I Got To Have It” and “Be A Father To Your Child.” Edo returns for his first album in 3 years, and he has brought a special friend. The legendary Pete Rock has laced Edo with 10 beats. That’s right, all of’em. The beats need not be mentioned as Pete blazes all the way through; from the guitar licks of “Boston,” the slick trumpets of “Just Call My Name” to the gentle keys of “Revolution.” Edo’s aggressive mic presence and thoughtful rhymes mesh beautifully, and the results are even better with the likes of Masta Ace, Diamond D and Krumbsnatcha show up to bless the m-i-c. You got to have this.
