I remember my introduction to the product coming out of the Axiom label. A few years ago, the releases of Altered Beats and the Axiom Dub compilation had my CD player on REPEAT-ALL for a long time. So it was no surprise that I would be quick to grab another Axiom compilation - this time featuring the skillz of Kool Keith. And as always, the Axiom label refuses to leave this listener dissatsfied.

The emphasis on this album is definitely on production, but some well placed lyrics by some ill MCs help set it off even more. Bill Laswell handles the majority of the production. His beats are complex, but avoid the common tendency to become cluttered. Three (too-)short sessions are added to the mix by Extrakd & Eddie Def. Any fan of DJ skillz should at least check this album for these.

The first track after the Ramm Ell Zee intro features Kool Keith. Now of course Keith rips it over a raw beat courtesy of Mr. Laswell. I had high expectations for this track, and it did not disappoint. In true Axiom style, it is unclear where the Kool Keith track ends and Extrakd & Eddie Def's first offering begins. In fact, one of my favorite things about this album is its cohesiveness. From beginning to end, the listener is on a journey orchestated by Material.

Flavor Flav is up next on Burnin' - another Bill Laswell platter. Flav reminds all those who forgot about him that he is not about to fall off. Mr. Len of Company Flow puts together a signature beat for Breeze and Queen Heroine to rhyme over, and Killah Priest drops some serious wisdom on Temple Of The Mental. Singer Lori Carson is featured on All That Future, and Alicia Blue offers Mind Drift and Flow. Any fans of Portishead and Tricky will feel right at home when hearing these. Which brings us to another selling point of this album: Diversity. Varying the style of production and vocals keeps the listener interested, but it is Material's ability to bring all this divesity together and make it flow that wins this album a recommendation.

And now the big BUT ... Although the production is far above average on this album, some of the MCs featured don't really come off. The lyrics put forth by Nature Boy Jim Kelly, Ramm Ell Zee (featured on 2 tracks as well as the intro), and Ahlil the Transcending Soldier are sub-par. Also, these lyricists appear mostly on the second half of the album which let me down after the initial product. Luckily, this does not overpower the vibe which Material has already constructed, and I usually manage to find my way to the end without skipping any tracks.

The final verdict: A diverse, cohesive journey. If you're familiar with Axiom product, this album is as solid as the others mentioned. The inlay contains one phrase in bold letters: "Rap Is Still An Art". Material's ability to prove this statement true overshadows the lyrical misencounters of a few weak MCs. If you have the cash, and want something slightly different that still wreaks of hip hop .... buy this.