Toronto and Canada have done a lot to put themselves on the map in the last few years. Saukrates began the work of putting Canada on the map with "Father Time" and "The Brick House EP." The Rascalz made a ton of noise, with their first two albums, "Really Livin" and "Cash Crop." Kardinal Offishal dropped an amazing, but unfairly slept on album, "Eye & I" and Canada's finest teamed up to show the States how to rock a "Northern Touch." Choclair himself has shined on singles such as "Just A Second," and "What it Takes."

So at this point, the expectations riding on the shoulders of the next big Canadian act are extremely high. Luckily, Choclair's broad shoulders can handle the pressure. His long awaited debut, "Ice Cold," is a fine piece of work which displays his love for the artform quite clearly.

Lyrically, Choclair represents as a member of the Circle, arguably Canda's strongest hip-hop collective. He has recieved criticisms for misogynistic lyrics, but it's difficult to argue about his talent and flow. He easily carries the album with a minimum of guest artists. The artists he has chosen to work with on this project are strictly of the highest caliber. Saukrates, Solitair, and Kardinal represent for the Circle, Rascalz represent the Northwest, Memphis Bleek and Guru represent the international connection and Jully Black lends her sultry voice to "Rollin'." Despite the strength of these guests, or perhaps because of them, Choclair shines that much better. There is no doubt that this is a Choclair album, as he refuses to be outshone by any of his guests. Kardinal in particular has the ability to take over projects, but avoids this.

The production on this album is also exceptional. Saukrates contributes several selections, as does Solitair. Alos representing are the Grassroots, KCut, and Kardinal. All of the tracks have a special T-dot flavour to them, and will hang with the best in the business. Don't sleep on Canada, specifically Toronto

Tracks to check for: "Ice Cold," "Let's Ride," "Takin' It In," the brilliant "Bare Witness," "Rollin'," "Young Gunz," "Flagrant," "S.O.T." and "Da Chiznock"

The final verdict: A very solid album worth checking. It's not for everyone, as some will probably be offended by the large amounts of misogynistic lyrics. Still though, this album has both beats and rhymes, making it one of the better albums to come out this year (which is saying a lot). Choclair is an excellent storyteller, and his rhymes are always both clever and humourous. With bangin beats in the back, this album is very complete.