B.U. The Knowledgist has assembled a mini all-star cast of conscientious rappers on Rιflexions / Reflections, including the likes of emcees OL1KU, H.D., L'Queb, and Marilyn. These five collaborators engender a move towards peace, understanding and honesty. After a quick listen to the album, it is easy to see that B.U. The Knowledgist is, as his biography describes him, "a spiritually engaged artist."

The hidden emerald in the B.U. equation is producer Alexandre Chagnon. Alexandre handles all the production on Rιflexions / Reflections, and establishes himself as a premier producer while generating a source of solid, original, diverse and timeless underground beats.

The album is split fairly equally into French and English, with B.U. providing vocals on the most songs (nine out of fifteen). Not surprising is the fact that B.U.'s years of experience, performing at countless shows, shines as he provides the some of the smoothest verses. 'Soul Language' is the hottest cut and features B.U., OL1KU, H.D. and L'Queb. It urges the listener to take charge of their life. 'Spread Love' is a conscious cry to look inside yourself, rise up and put value in your life. 'What's Up Love' is a fun Sesame Street-esk track recounting H.D.'s sexual learning process and the sincerity now surrounding his soul. 'I Wonna Know' is a laid-back thought-provoking B.U. song. 'Trahison' is a Hindi-laced track with a catchy chorus spit by OL1KU.

My initial reaction to this album was that it was exactly what I'd been awaiting. It has it all: Conscious messages, liquid flows, and dope diverse underground beats. B.U. has the spiritual hip-hop scene in Quebec locked down. Pick this one up and watch out for his upcoming debut album!

For more info, check B.U. The Knowledgist at http://www.b-utheknowledgist.com