Various

This compilation marks the first foray into the market by Halftooth, a previously unknown label based in New York. While reading between the lines may suggest this isn’t much to write home about, the opposite actually applies. On this surprisingly consistent compilation, Halftooth’s main artists; well-respected underground vet Wordsworth, Kenn Starr and producer/MC Oddissee who produces most of the tracks here are joined by underground notables like J-Live, Talib Kweli, Little Brother and Unspoken Heard’s Asheru to add some extra clout to these tracks. Despite the presence of these names its DC area representative Oddisee who perhaps makes the greatest impression. As well as providing beats that will be instantly appealing to any Pete Rock aficionados, Odddisee’s commanding inspirational lyrics and presence holds down the inspirational "Brother” and "Yes Y’all.” Wordsworth also impresses with his PE-channelling gritty fable "Here We Go Again” and the self-assured Kenn Starr ensures "Walk The Walk” is an entertaining head-nodding affair. With Oddisee’s jazzy interludes holding things together the lapses on this compilation are few and far between and definitely whets the appetite for their forthcoming releases.