If your impression of hip hop music is a misogynistic art form that glorifies weed, and relies on over-used samples to sell, the Lootpack's Soundpieces: Da Antidote will supply you with a healthy new appreciation for rap music.

Their album provides a strong amount of substance and amusement, sometimes within the same track. "Weededed" addresses the flawed assumption that you must have a blunt in order to be a "true MC". This well done and witty song adds a level of consciousness that is lacking from many rap artists.

Other treats on this album include "Break Dat Party," "Questions," and "Speaker Smashin". Lootpack is supported by cameos from fellow Likiwit Coalition members: the Alkaholics, Defari, and Dilated Peoples.

The only knock against this marvelous album, is that the group may indeed be guilty of what they are seeking to cure. It is quite baffling to discover the Lootpack have sampled Black Sheep's everlasting favorite "The Choice Is Yours" and Nas' "Shootouts". But before branding Lootpack as frauds; let us examine why these samples - particularly Nas' - were chosen. On "Wanna Test" Lootpack fiercely chastise other artists who abandon principle, and their passion for the art, in the pursuit of platinum sales. This deep rooted emotion is… randomly placed over a previous Nas sample? Winning battles without throwing a punch. Lootpack lands phantom blows that careless listeners may never see coming!

This album grows stronger as it plays. With Lauryn Hill out of the way, this is a serious contender for rap album of the year!

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