Rawkus Presents Soundbombing II

You Dropped A Bomb On Me
by: tom reiter

Once again Rawkus Records brings us another compilation of true hip-hop. Sound Bombing II is the one of the less known releases, overshadowed by Lyricist Lounge Vol 2 and Blackstar. The Beat Junkies, J-Rocc and Babu, straight mix each track, introducing each song by scratching into it. Other interludes are voice-overs done by well known artists, such as Prince Paul, Kid Capri, Pete Rock, and others. The first song is by Slim Shady himself, Eminem. Eminem is not a well-produced white boy who got lucky, as some people probably think. He's a true hip-hopper from the underground scene, and shows off his lyrical skills on "Any Man." The following track, "B-Boy Document 99," features The High & Mighty, Mos Def and Mad Skillz. Mos Def continues to amaze with his superioraly smooth flow. Mad Skillz flows like he's from the Flipmode squad, but he's not.

"WWIII" is done by Pharoahe Monch, of Organized Konfusion, and Shabaam Sahdeeq. Pharoahe has his chaotic stutter style in full force, and is supported by a strong refrain. Medina Green is introduced to the mainstream with "Crosstown Beef," which is about exactly what the title says. Mos Def makes an appearance on the track as well, resulting in one of the best tracks on the album. However, the title track, "Soundbombing," takes the crown for best track. Well known hip-hop artists Dialated Peoples and Tash combine to make this hip- hop masterpiece. The lyricsists are supported by a simple boom-bap and guitar riff sample, making the them the center of attention. "Soundbombing" is nothing less then hip-hop ecstasy.

The next few songs don't really seem to fit in. The feel is changed to anger and and has a different attitude. It's a lot like Organized Konfusion's first album. "1-9-9-9" changes things back to smootheness, featuring Common and Sadat X. The Beat Junkies went 'diggin in the crates' for this next track, showcasing Diamond D, who hasn't made an appearance for a long time. They use material from his album 'Stunts, Blunts, and Hip Hop,' released in , to mix into "When It Rains It Pours." 'Soundbombing' finsishes with tracks by Mos Def, Shabaam Sadeeq feat. The Cocoa Brovaz (part of the Boot Camp Klik), and Reflection Eternal, with the end of the Outro has a comical cyphere of J-Rocc and Babu.

Soundbombing II continues Rawkus Records's notoriety for bringing us the East Coast's best of hip-hop. For those who like Lyrcist Lounge, 'Soundbombing II' is something to check out. 17-Oct-1999 1:00 PM