Like well refined oil, The Roots are back hittin up the scene with thick, smooth and silky lyrics showing that hip hop truly is "the love of their life". I like to call their style, 'fungi hip hop'. Not because their music is bad, but because once it finds a way to implant itself, it grows at a phenomenal rate. The Roots successfully master this art of 'fungi hip hop', laying down simple beats and complex lyrical patterns, essentially drowning the listener in thought. This is not cruising music, it's thinking music. The Roots remain popular with both mainstream and underground hip hop because of their love and devotion to this genre of music.

The Roots' first single entitled, "You Got Me" is a love-tinged tale that'll meld and mold your heart. Erykah Badu throws in the hook and a few lines that'll most certainly get stuck in your mind. Eve of Destruction throws her thing down with a few rap vocals. It's just amazing! "Without A Doubt" is definitely their dance track. It's a great mix of a Latino sound, deep congo's, chime, a great beat and lyrical supremacy. "Act Too(The Love Of My Life)" is just a great song, dedicated to The Roots #1 love - hip hop. It's a got a hook that'll make you smile. "Step Into The Relm" sounds like something Cypress Hill might have cooked up. The beat fades in and out, putting emphasis on the lyrics - something you only see from a great hip hop group.

The Roots put forth yet another great album. But that should be to no surprise, they've been doing their thing in the mainstream for 4 years now. Lyrical lexicons they truly are! This album is the essence of hip hop - poetry to a rap connoisseur's ear. But, don't expect to be blown away by the beats. Your hip hop collection is not complete without this album. It might not be the party album you're looking for, but its ideal for putting your mind in motion.

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(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written March 18, 1999