Hailing from Vaughn, on the outskirts of Toronto, comes Syntifik. He burst onto the scene last fall lighting up the phone lines at Flow 93.5 with requests for his first two songs ever - 'The Arrival' and 'Trickin.' The DJ Serious produced, 'Trickin,' is an upbeat head-bopping radio-friendly song telling all yall to watch out for the ladies who just want you for your money. 'The Arrival' demonstrates Syntifik's best flow combined with a picture perfect female chorus.

In building towards Syntifik's debut release The World I Live In, slated for fall 2003, he's since released three new songs. The new songs portray more heartfelt conscious messages, but his choice of a slower flow is questionable. 'Think About It' is the most lyrically catchy song as Tiftik thinks back on his struggles and preaches the rules on who to run wit. The chorus on 'Sparkling Diamonds' had me reminiscing on the early Wu-Tang days and Raekwon's 'Only built for Cuban Links.' Even though this was the weakest song on the sampler it still impressed. Watch for a video for this song to hit MuchMusic in the fall.

The production thus far on Syntifik's sampler is on point and impressive. It successfully mixes a street feel with mainstream club potential. Although his flow might be slower on his more conscious songs, the message masks that problem. Be on the lookout for The World I Live In this fall.

For more info on Syntifik, go here.