The Saint John, New Brunswick rapper known as Sean One returns with his unique underground rap sound on I Can't Believe it's Not Butter. Unfortunately it doesn't live up to the classic billing of his previous album, I Live in New Brunswick, but still manages to pack a fresh underground punch.

I Can't Believe it's Not Butter feels more like a hodge-podge mix of new songs, old recordings (as far back as '99) and other oddities. Additionally, several songs are rather short and lack the conventional verse-chorus-verse structure. This seeming lack of cohesion hurts the album, as it takes on more of an "in between albums filler" feel, comparable to Swollen Members' Monsters In The Closet.

Regardless, Sean One surrounds himself with impressive guest appearances and production from the trio of Jorun, James Orr (of We Stain Porcelain) and himself. Sean & James bring a solid underground sound laced with James' flute and piano mastery. However, a quick listen to the album demonstrates Jorun's legendary expertise as his beats clearly outshine those of Sean & James, making his tracks the true treats on the album.

However, the production skills of Sean One yield my favorite track with the politically charged 'David Amram's message to the Politicians of the World.' The sing-song style chorus stings with knowledge and simple truth: "Don't forget that Jesus never got elected, still we all remember his name / Moses had no rifles, Mohammed spoke no trifles, all three led people just the same." 'Down with Puttin Raps Down' is not only produced by Jorun, but also features the producer as he drops the song's best verse. Former Vet Cru members, Above & Cess, re-join Sean One on this track, which is so impressive that it was selected to be included on the Dig Your Roots compilation album. The First Words trio of emcees Sean One & Above and producer Jorun yield two of the albums other best tracks with 'Bunch of Fools' and 'We Lock Shit.'

I Can't Believe it's Not Butter is an enjoyable release from Sean One, but I know he's capable of more potency. Overall it seemed to lack the focus and cohesion for which I know he is capable. Regardless, it still makes for a great underground rap album filled with some standout beats courtesy of Sean One and especially Jorun.

To contact Sean One, email bigseanone@hotmail.com.