Back in '96 the first volume of Bassments of Badmen exposed some of Halifax's elite hip-hoppers, with production by Jorun and contributions from the likes of Buck 65, Sixtoo and Classified. Seven years later emerges Volume 2, having expanded its off-radar horizons to Halifax, Toronto and beyond, it falls short of the high precedent set by Volume 1.

'Bury The Bodies' is one of the best upbeat, off-center songs on the album, as Vangel's production exemplifies his rising skill by perfectly complementing emcees Fritz Tha Cat and Mindbender. On 'Wordburglar', SJ the Wordburglar provides some of the wittiest lines on the compilation with the likes of "I'm spittin so much shit I'm gurglin terds" and "You can't produce like neutered pets, I eat ya up quicker than Skinner at Uter-fest." Kilgour hits hard with his foggy beat on 'Teen Idols' as Thesis shows exceptional flow and catchy lyricism. Noah23 presents 'Amnesia', a captivating piano-laden lyrical masterpiece. Restiform Bodies prove they are the "real men of steel" on the fresh 'Uh-Oh.' Creature Box provides a solid underground sound over a positive message on the deceivingly-titled 'Ciggaret Butt Sandwitch.'

Bassments of Badmen Volume 2 is like a minor league all-star game: Some players have real potential, while others will fizzle over time. Hand Solo Records is able to compile a tiny snapshot of the ever-growing realm of off-the-radar underground hip-hop. Unfortunately it's not as chock-full of high quality draft picks as was its predecessor - Volume 1.

Click here to buy the album at ugsmag.com