(RUN)

Ladies and gentlemen, Dr. Who has a new album of the year. After first hearing Roots Manuva and his unique voice and delivery on the Herbaliser's Very Mercenary album, I took a chance and grabbed his whole album. I've never been happier to have spent some money.

Coming from South London (Stockwell actually) in the UK, Mr. Manuva is not subject to the stagnating influence running through hip-hop right now. The result is a uniquely innovative, brilliant work. The beats are unmistakably hip-hop, but equally unmistakeable are the strong influences from reggae, jungle, dub, funk, and old soul.

Most of the production is handled by Roots himself, and manages to remain varied and yet cohesive. Additional production is provided by I.G. Culture, Hylton Smythe, and Wayne Bennett. From the number of mentions he gets, the engineer, Lord Gosh, also has a large influence on the Roots Manuva sound. One amazing thing about the production on this album is that it manages to be mellow and hype at the same time. It would set a club on fire, or can be played while chillin wit da boyz or whatever.

Lyrically, Manuva does incredible things with the English language, twisting accents everywhere from the UK to JA. His commentaries are also biting and on point. Guest lyricists include I.G. Culture, Wildflower, Seanie T (on the brilliant "Big Tings Gwidarn,") Sober Now, and Thomas E. Despite all the guests, Roots Manuva does an excellent job of not allowing himself to be overshadowed. This is unquestionably Roots Manuva's album, and at no point are you overwhelmed by other people.

The artists I most want to see him work with now is Lord Have Mercy from the Flipmode Squad and/or D.V. Alias Khrist. The combination of unique voices and deliveries would be amazing. (Witness "Holy Water" feat. Lord Have and D.V. from Lyricist Lounge Vol. 1).

Tracks to check for: "Movements," "Juggle Tings Proper," "Inna," "Baptism," "Strange Behaviour," "Big Tings Gwidarn," "Wisdom Fall," "Clockwork," "Motion 5000." Make SURE you give this album a good listen.

The final verdict: This is the best album, hip-hop or not, in a long time. RUN to your local music store and pester them until you get a copy of this gem. Everyone will find something to enjoy in the Roots-Fi dimension.

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