Murs & Fashawn

Though hardly the introspective sequel to Fashawn's Boy Meets World fans of the Fresno phenom have been salivating for since 2009 (word is, The Ecology is still on deck), This Generation is a breezy summertime ride guaranteed to please devotees of two of California's best everyman MCs. Separated by 11 years, but no state lines, Murs (34) and Fashawn (23) have been fans of each other's work for a minute, but only recently met. And although neither rapper writes his best song for this collaborative CD, which lacks that immediate must-replay banger, their chemistry is instant and contagious. As they swap bars, Run-DMC-style, on "Yellow Tape" and resurrect G-funk on "64 Impala," you can taste how much fun these guys are having. Produced entirely by hip-hop vets Beatnick and K-Salaam, and stamped with the logo of East coast underground institution Duck Down, This Generation knows its audience and doesn't try to overreach with gratuitous guests or radio fare. An easy 12-track listen with smart, if not epic, storytelling and a variety of sounds ― synths, snares, steel drums, guitar riffs ― This Generation is a summer appetizer that unfortunately arrives in fall. It's just enough to whet the appetite for the forthcoming Murs/9th Wonder finale, Fashawn's proper sophomore effort and, best of all, their new duo's joint live show.