Naledge & Double-O Are Kidz In The Hall

You’d be forgiven for approaching this record with scepticism. After all, it’s one of the first records to emerge on the newly revamped Rawkus roster a few years after the once mighty indie hip-hop label folded. However, this offering from MC Naledge and producer Double-O is a refreshingly accomplished debut. While Naledge’s assertion that he’s unique because he’s an MC that attended university is less than convincing and grates a little, essentially he’s a very good lyricist, one armed with rhymes and brimming with insight. His lyrical content outweighs his presence however, as his voice sometimes wavers between sounding like Big L or Jay-Z, although you’d be hard-pressed to hear Jigga yelling, "The revolution is here!” Producer Double-O is a low-key, steadying influence throughout and deftly complements Naledge with crisp beats and a deceptive depth. With only 12 tracks, the Kidz in the Hall don’t wear out their welcome, yet by the time it’s over the combination of Naledge’s everyman aspirations and Double-O’s soul-infused score will have conquered even the most stubbornly resistant.