Pharoahe Monch has been one of the most talented, underrated emcees in the business since most of the world first heard of him on Organized Konfusion's self-titled 1991 debut. On this album and on two more underground classics, "Stress: The Extinction Agenda," and "The Equinox," the Monch and his lyrical partner-in-rhyme Prince Poetry consistently found new and more impressive ways to abuse the English language for sport.

Having decided to make some solo moves for a while, the Pharoahe doesn't let up on his verbal assault for one moment. As much as this album is a departure from his previous work, trying for example to draw in a more mainstream crowd, it also picks up right where he left off. His lyrics haven't suffered in the slightest, still remaining one of the illest abstract OR concrete rhymers ever. Pharoahe's ability to flip a topic, using even controversial ones to talk about something totally unrelated is particularly showcased on the gem "Rape." Here he talks about hip-hop from the point of view of a rapist stalking his prey. Disturbing, true, but devastatingly on point.

Production duties are handled mostly by Monch himself and Lee Stone, another member of the Medicine Men who provided rhythms for Organized Konfusion. Additional production is provided by DJ Scratch, The Alchemist (who is EVERYWHERE these days) and Diamond. This few producers results in a much more coherent sounding effort than a lot of albums these days. Every track is distinct, but each fits into the whole as well.

Guest lyrics could only be provided by those capable of rhyming with the Monch without being made to look foolish. To this end, Canibus, M.O.P., Busta Rhymes, Apani, Prince Poetry, Common and Talib Kweli lend their considerable efforts. In addition, the "Simon Says Remix" features Lady Luck, Redman, Method Man, Busta and Shabaam Sahdeeq. This list looks fairly long, but most of the tracks feature Pharoahe alone so this is legitimately a solo venture. In addition, in every track featuring a guest, Monch shines above and beyond everyone, not something every artist can say.

Tracks to check for: Every one. No exaggeration, every track hits from intro to the end. No skipping necessary on this one. Particularly check, "Behind Closed Doors," "Queens," "Rape," the blazing "Simon Says," "No Mercy," "The Ass," "God Send," and "The Truth." Believe me, choosing which tracks to leave off that list was a very difficult endeavour.

The final verdict: Flawless complex interweaving lyrical patterns meet heartfelt varied but coherent rhythmic stylings. In other words, FLY to your neighboorhood joint and grab this album. It is to be enjoyed on a myriad of levels.