The latest release from Canadian underground hip-hop artist, Classified was aptly titled "Unpredictable". Never could I have predicted that an underground artist from my own backyard in Eastern Canada, could have so much skill. Classified hails from Halifax, Nova Scotia and is a key member of the hip hop group, The Ground Squad. Not only does he have ill lyrical skillz, but he also does the producing, writing, mixing and recording for the majority of the tracks on 'Unpredictable.' Working for his own record label, HalfLife Records, Classified is definitely in a class by himself. In fact, he brings new meaning to a statement Choclair made when I interviewed him. Choclair stated: "I think Canadian artists have a little bit of an edge because we have to work harder to get the exposure." This Canadian hip hop artist has found the edge Choclair was talking about, now Classified just needs to get that exposure. To quote Classified, "... people need to stop skipping Class..."

Stylistically, Classified's production skills are scintillating. Most of the beats are new and fresh, and provide a well-spread diversity. "My Life" is my favorite track, a quick track with a bounce beat highlighted with well-placed scratching. The chorus shows that Classified either has impressive vocal ability or mixing skills. The hit single, "Unpredictable" will have you pumping this beat out your car window, singing along with the chorus. "Juno Massacre" is an energy filled track with a rap-and-run feel. It features Loonie, Nathan "C", Jorun and White Mic. Other overly impressive tracks include "Sound Off", "The Bad Side remix" and "One Day."

If you're a hip hop head, and you take any pride in discovering talent at the underground level, then you better lay eyes on Classified. This rapper/producer has got mad skillz. Hopefully, the release of the video for the first single "Unpredictable" will get him the exposure needed to attract some big-name record labels or distributors. If it does, then there is no doubt in my mind that people all over North America will take notice. 'Unpredictable' is worth checking out.


www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written July 16, 2000