Def3 & Factor

With a lot of hard work and more than a little talent, Saskatoon producer Factor has earned the right to collaborate with underground legends like Awol One and Myka 9, yet he continues to contribute to the likes of regional MCs like Regina's Def3. Compared to Factor's production on the now-classic solo debut from Ira Lee, Def 3's partner in Dead Can't Bounce, Factor has picked up the pace with a greater emphasis on mid- to late '90s-influenced boom-bap for Def 3's solo debut. Being a more traditional rapper than many of the MCs Factor usually collaborates with, it works for Def3. The exceptions are the mellow bookend beats for "Triumph," a meaningful but boring opening track that threatens to derail the album right from the start, and "Killing Time," a jazzy, soulful cut that's exactly where it belongs - chillin' at the end of the album. As for Def3, Drumbo is a mix of message-orientated raps and braggadocio, highlighted by "Stutter Step," which should have been the opening track, fast-paced funk jam "Speed Demon" with Moka Only, and "C.H.U.G.," an ironic, new frat boy anthem. Despite a skip-worthy track or two, Drumbo is a cool collaboration that demonstrates Def3's potential even as the album falls short of classic status.