[ 85 decibel Monks ]

Iowa City doesn’t possess the most illustrious history in regards to hip-hop. But, it’s kind’a like Howard Dean being harangued for not having more black folks on his staff in Vermont. But some white folks, most likely sporting a delightful accent of some variety, have come through with a pretty damned quality hip-hop album. The master of the production is Tack-Fu, accompanied by team of ruffians (The Chaircrusher, Hartless, and drumk). The fact that DJ Vadim, ManChild of Mars Ill, Illogic and Blueprint appear on this release solidifies that fact that there is talent behind the boards in the mighty land of Iowa: those folks aren’t collaborating outta pity. The first track “Enter Dependents” sports ManChild of Mars Ill. The viola drone, hand drums and echo-laden snare hit make the track float, while it’s being ridden by average raps. Tack-Fu spends time with the sounds he uses, so he oftentimes feels whether or not an emcee or a vocal sample is needed. More frequently than not he figures correctly. “Oh Yea!” featuring DJ Skwint, comes off without any vocal accompaniment as does “Interlude in E-Minor.” Occasionally, he figures wrong (“Mr. World”). A tune by drumk, however, is the highlight of the instrumental numbers. His “Mongolian Fire” best uses the eastern theme that is visited on this album a few times. A couple of electo-glitch tracks (Hot Water for Tea” “Key Player”) get stowed away on here as well, showcasing the collective’s ability to leave the complacency of most hip-hop and try somethin’ new. So friends, in closing, simply contribute to our national pastime of buying stuff and buy this. Go.

- Dave Cantor