Mr. Complex

Mr. Complex was one of the first MCs to capitalise on the independent wave that swept the New York area in the mid-’90s, selling tens of thousands of twelve-inches, before the market got saturated with too much product. However his tendency to be ahead of the curve is not limited to his business sense, Complex has always applied the same ethic to his craft on the mic. His offbeat stop and start flow often sounds like a random stream of relentless vocabulary, but closer examination reveals a deeper connected meaning to his creative wordplay. His style is similar to that of the higher profile MC Pharoahe Monch who happens to be a close associate. Indeed "Scream, Shout” featured here underlines how the two feed off each others’ creative energy. Complex also reconnects with another long-time collaborator DJ Spinna who contributes his brand of spacey funk to "Extra Extra,” where Complex decries beef that can easily escalate into violence, following the track with a skit underlining the same point. His often humorous approach to topics he clearly holds strong views on is refreshing and free of preachiness as his BBQ tale gone awry "380 Lady” also demonstrates and is an inherent trait on this release. While Mr. Complex built his rep on his vinyl singles this album probably reflects his most cohesive and consistent collection yet. While his last release Hold It Down, was filled to the brim with his inventive flows, there’s more direction and continuity here and the guests whether they be Morcheeba, Dilated Peoples or surprisingly SNL alum "Ill” Will Ferrell fit into his vision rather than distracting you from it.