With the recent success of IRS' 12" inch releases, they're announcement of the release of their debut album, Welcome to Planet IRS, came as no surprise. Having garnered considerable appeal on the Canadian underground scene with their recent hit singles, my anticipation was running high.

The IRS-produced album yields a barrage of funky club-bounce beats, with input from the group's three members: Black Cat, Korry Deez and T.R.A.C.K.S. Black Cat shines as a masterfully skilled emcee, while Korry Deez sometimes falters, as he occasionally seems oblivious to the beat to which he rhymes. The album also features several Monolith crew (to which IRS belongs) members including Dan-e-o, Nish Rawks, Wio-K, Grimace Love, Shamon Harage, Charisma and Spidah Man.

Welcome to Planet IRS features 5 previously released singles from IRS' 12" collection along with 8 new tracks. Unfortunately, I soon realized that 4 of these 8 new tracks were skits/intros/interludes. With only 4 new full-length tracks, I was disappointed. Nonetheless, I can't blame IRS for wanting to cash in on the success they've encountered. Previously released hits, 'Whatchuwantnow,' and 'Girls (A Man's Best Weakness)' are the brightest gems on the album. Meanwhile, the latest single, 'We Don't Play' and 'T-Dot Anthem' both hold their own. Beyond these four tracks, I found myself falling in and out of the music.

Welcome to Planet IRS feels more like a compilation of IRS' recent releases rather than a debut album. As such, it is lacking in continuity, vision and freshness. The album has some amazing songs, but overall it fell short on content. Don't get me wrong, it's an impressive debut album, but I just know that IRS can come even stronger.

Click here to buy the album.