What do you get when you take two lyrically gifted emcees, one of whom is also a critically acclaimed producer and pair them with a world renowned DJ? You get Evidence, Rakaa Iriscience and DJ Babu, collectively known as the Dilated Peoples.

The Peoples are dedicated to growth and progression and this comes through all over the album. They keep their feet solidly on the ground, but reach for the stars with every song. They are rooted in the foundations of hip-hop, yet are right at the forefront of innovation and progression.

Lyrically, Rakaa delivers nothing but the most thoughtful of lyrics. Many of his lines can be read in at least two or three different ways. He's definitely an MC who cares about what he says and who is dedicated to the art of lyricism. Evidence is no slouch on the mic either, punctuating his verses with many clever punchlines and a rapid fire delivery. He's definitely the more battle oriented MC of the pair.

Production duties are handled by a number of the industry's brightest. Evidence expertly handles most of the production, but The Alchemist, T-Ray, E-Swift, Babu, Joey Chavez and Kut Masta Kurt also contribute bangers. This is hip-hop at it's finest, as each beat is wonderfully fitting to the lyrics for each song. Don't be in too much of a hurry to skip between songs either. There are little interlude beats scattered all about. Oh yeah, and don't forget that this group has a REAL turntablist behind the wheels. Every cut on the album is precisely placed and perfectly executed by Babu.

While every track hits, particular mention needs to be made of tracks like "The Platform," which serves the dual purpose of introducing the crew and explaining a little about their philosophy toward music. "Right On," brings the Likwit stylings of those famous hip-hop drunkies the Alkoholiks. "Service" is a scathing condemnation of wackness while "Ear Drums Pop," "Years in The Making" and "Annihilation" will definitely hold your ear through the middle secion of the album. "The Shape of Things To Come" puts the Peoples with Aceyalone, another extremely talented emcee. The chemistry they show on each posse cut proves that they did not simply pick people to work with to sell more copies with big names. They must really have wanted to work with each and every guest on this album. The "Ear Drums Pop" remix closes out the album brilliantly, with excellent guest verses from Planet Asia, Defari, a surprising blisterer from White E. Ford (a.k.a. Everlast) and Phil the Agony. Long time fans will also appreciate the presence of time-honoured favourites like "Guaranteed," "Work The Angles" and "Triple Optics" while newer fans will enjoy them right alongside the newer tracks.

Another superior album from the West Coast Underground, this album is a must have for all you underground heads. The Platform is muscially excellent, lyrically superb, conceptually tight and just all around solid. Cop this piece, you won't regret it.