In the absence of Prince Paul, this group known as De La Soul, have unlocked the creative juices and put them to good use. After four years of waiting, this trio of Dave, Posdnuos & Maseo are back on the scene with their 3rd album, 'Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump.' Flowing with an all-new mainstream clubbish hip hop style, these pioneers have polished their lyrical intellect to provide an impressive album. This album was originally slated to be a 3-disc album, but instead De La Soul chose to release each disc individually. The three are slated to be released in a twelve month period.

"Thru Ya City" is a hot hot track. With a clubbish bounce splicing smoothly over the catchy, but sampled chorus of "Summer in the city." If this gets released as a single, it will blow up for sure! "With Me," is a laid-back R&B'ish track that'll leave you captivated. "Oooh," is an impressive first single that features Redman.

Overall, I enjoyed this album, but it had its soft spots. The intro is bland and boring, but fortunately the 'ghost weed' skits are entertaining. The first half of the album has more bounce to it, then the last, laid-back half. If you're a De La Soul fan, or just enjoy the ol skool rap pioneers, then this album will please you.

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written August 22, 2000