DJ Spinna who? Well...that is the question that probably comes to most non-underground hip hop heads. However, among fans of underground hip hop DJ Spinna has become a busy man on the production tip. Having released this joint US/Japanese LP, as well as a compilation on Rawkus called "Heavy Beats" as well as production jobs on various other records, including a remix for French R&B divas Les Nubians. This LP comes from his own Beyond Real label, in partnership with Mary Joy Recordings in Japan. From what I heard, a majority of the LP's were distributed in Japan and Europe.

The album starts off with a short cut feat. Mr. Akil, which is a faster track with a whole layering of sounds on it which may sound a bit cluttered to most, but to Spinna fans it's a nice opening to the LP. Various groups appear on at least a couple tracks, including Old World Disorder feat. SKAM, I.G. Off and Hazardous, and Basement Khemists, as well as newcomers Dynas and Jet Black Ha. All groups are on the Beyond Real label, thus this LP is a sort of showcase for what the label has to offer.

Production showcased is mainly DJ Spinna, as well as DJ Joc Max and Ge-ology. Suprisingly DJ Joc Max comes off with two of the best tracks on the LP, "Correct Techniques" feat. Basement Khemists, and the LP's jem cut "Lyrical Fluctuations" feat. the Jigmastas, Pharoahe Monch, Talib Kweli, Mr. Complex and Shabaam Sahdeeq. All I can say about this one is that the names speak for themselves.

Tracks to check on this joint are: "Correct Technique", laced with a smooth piano loop and sample from Bob James "Nautilus" last heard on Jeru's "My Mind Spray" with tight lyrics from the Basement Khemists. "Never Minded" feat. Old World Disorder features lyrics from group member, Miami native SKAM who impressed me last on L Fudge's "What If?", very reminiscent of Rass Kass voice and flow. "In The Air" feat. I.G. Off and Hazardous and SKAM is a classic Spinna sounding cut...very nice. "Lryical Fluctuation" is the for sure the banger on this one featuring the cream of the crop in today's underground scene. Also check "I'm Doin' Ya" feat. Basement Khemists, and "If" feat. The Jigmastas, a bouncy track with the Jigs rhyming about their experiences in the hip hop business, and how people should do what they do best to get by in todays hectic world.

The final verdict: A very solid LP of some talented MC's and production which doesn't get stale through the duration of the LP. A good showing by DJ Spinna and upcoming DJ Joc Max. A nice jem to dig for for all you underground headz. Cop it if you can find it.