(RUN)

Normally, I give compilation albums and soundtracks a pass. For the most part, they are formulaic, weak efforts only intended to release songs by as many big names as possible. This month, however, Rawkus presents Soundbombing II and demonstrates how compilation albums are supposed to go. Honestly, I don't think there's a single wack track on this whole album.

The first Soundbombing album was ably mixed by Evil Dee. The duties on the 1 and 2s this time out are handled by J-Rocc and Babu of the Beat Junkies. Make sure while you're listening to the album that you listen for their exhibits of turntablism between tracks.

Tracks to check for: Like I said, every single one. The album starts off with "Any Man," showcasing the sick humour of Eminem, then goes into "B-Boy Document 99," by one of my favorite groups of the past few years, The High & Mighty. Guest MCs on this track, Mos Def and Mad Skillz. Next, Pharoahe Monch (of Organized Konfusion) and Shabaam Sahdeeq present "WWIII." Every time Pharoahe opens his mouth, he gets my vote for lyric of the year, and this is no exception. R.A. the Rugged Man is next with "Stanley Kubrick," a dark opus that showcases R.A.'s ever increasing skills. "Crosstown Beef" by Medina Green and "7XL" by Sir Menelik f/ Grand Puba and Sadat X is follows. This track surprised me somewhat, as a pairing of two of the Brand Nubian brothers are paired with Kool Keith's protegé, Scaramanga Shallah. Next up is the BRILLIANT "Chaos," by Reflection Eternal f/ Bahamadia. Even if you never buy this album, this is definitely a track to check.

The second half of the album brings Dilated Peoples & Tash with "Soundbombing," Thirsten Howl III with "Brooklyn Hard Rock," then "Mayor" by Pharoahe Monch. In this tune, he rhymes from the perspective of an embittered cop who plots to kill the Mayor. Next up is "Patriotism" from Company Flow and the first single, "1-9-9-9" by Common f/ Sadat X. DiamonD contributes "When It Pours It Rains," and Mos Def presents "Next Universe." I'll be brutally honest, I haven't been that impressed with Mos Def recently, but I was really feeling this track. Cocoa Brovaz and Shabaam Sahdeeq are next with "Every Rhyme I Write," and Reflection Eternal leaves us off with another banger with "On Mission," yet another hip-hop manifesto.

Production duties are handled by some of the best in the business, as well as up and comers. Standouts include: Mr. Walt for "Any Man," Mighty Mi for "B-Boy Document 99," DJ Hi-Tek for "Chaos," "1-9-9-9," "Next Universe," and "On Mission," and El-P for "Patriotism."

The final verdict: This album presents some of the best hip-hop I've heard in a long time. It's not all new, but it's OK because every track has thousands of listens to it. Definitely a fine addition to anyone's collection.

***