The Roots introduced much of the States to hip-hop backed by live instruments. What they didn't know, is that once again Canada was ahead of the game, because we have our own version of that "formula." For those lucky enough to have caught a Pocket Dwellers show, you know the vibrant energy they bring to the stage. Their album, Digitally Organic does an admirable job of capturing their vibe on disc.

From the opening chords of "Come With Us," the unknowing listener would think this is a talented jazz or rock band, only when the trademark lisp of the MC begins do you realize that this is an offshoot of the hip-hop family tree.

There's no doubt that the Dwellers are talented musicians. They hold grooves perfectly, with just enough flair in the solos to set them apart without any one instrument overpowering the collective.

The same applies to N.I.Gel, the group's MC. He is lyrically talented and varied, dealing with a large number of subjects, but still mainly out to party. He also has something that many emcees seem to lack these days, which is the ability to adjust to the pace and feel of the beat. Not limited to any style, his versatility allows him to remain an instrument in the Pocket Dwellers' orchestra.

Tracks that specifically stand out include "B-Boys" with its frenetic pacing, the smoothed out grooves of "Shine," "Concepts" where N.I.Gel rips through literary classics. Junglists will enjoy "A.I." with it's hyperactive snares. The crowd favourite "Madshrapnomuffin" is also extra hype. Don't sleep on the rest of the songs though.

The one complaint you might have about this disc is its short duration. Even with the bonus track, it's only 13 songs. Still, that's 13 tracks of fatness, instead of a 23 track album with 15 filler tracks. I definitely recommend you check this one, especially instrumental music fans.