For several years now, Toronto has been making a push to gain its rightful recognition as a city with a vibrant and talented hip-hop scene. J-Spade and Rob Blye, collectively known as Citizen Kane have definitely done their part over the years. Now is the time for their Deliverance, as they release their debut album.

After bursting onto the scene in 1996 with the "Structure, Foundation"/"Black Rain" 12", they followed up with The Epic EP in 1998, continuing to release solid product up to and including this LP.

The production on this album is nothing short of sweet. Fin-S, who touched the boards for every track, provides haunting strings, crisp drums and interesting twists on each track. He has help from S-Luv, as well as J-Spade and Rob Blye themselves.

Lyrically the album doesn't disappoint either. Bouncing all over the rhythms provided, the rhyming duo spit introspective, soul-searching words. They aren't afraid to represent positively, nor do they shy from examining the harsh realities they've faced in their lives. The guest lyricists also represent, and are well placed to ensure that this album is recognizably a Citizen Kane project. Of particular note are Mission Holiday and Dub-ill from Sic Sense.

Tracks to check for are difficult to select with this much solid material, but check particularly: "Soldier Story," featuring an ill guitar riff backed by an ethereal string section. "Monopoly Money," the first single and video. Brilliant production and a strong lyrical performance from both members. "Gambler," with it's sinister sounding bassline juxtaposed against airy piano chords. "Graffiti Knights," which does an excellent job of changing the flavour so the album won't seem too repetitive. "Tech Blows," featuring a drum-n-bass influenced bassline and an Arabic sounding piano sample, and "Eavesdroppin," closing out the album on a fine note, with a very Asian sounding melodic line and a simple, driving bassline.

The final verdict: An addition to your collection. A solid and well conceptualized album, which manages to walk the fine tightrope between coherence and boredom. There are no tracks which need skipping, and both production and lyrics are on point. Support that T.O. hip-hop, because it's some of the best out right now.