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R-Kade Shattered Realms 12" (ZooBone Records) If you've ever seen R-Kade pick up a microphone at a show, you know about that involuntary flow that's been crucifying MCs in this town for ages. The mic veteran who's ice cold, without a soul and a toll in the millions, has just released his first single on Zoobone Records and he does not come quietly. Taking on the alter-ego of God's most faithful death angel Gabriel, he rains lyrical fire from his heavenly roost. With Rek Hard personnel manning the stations for the remix, this longtime crew drops a solid one on the mortals of Montreal. Face it, people love R-Kade even if he does eat souls for breakfast. 7.5/10 (Scott C) Ricky Jones Ricky Jones (Universal)
P.A. Straight No Chase (Dreamworks/Universal)
There's something about hip hop that comes out of the South that completely sidesteps any simplistic coastal comparisons. I can't put my finger on it, and don't want to. P.A., short for Parental Advisory, is a trio from Atlanta that boasts some Southern down-dirty, sample-free hip hop. Although their first album was produced by big shots Organized Noize, they've managed to put together an impressive follow-up on their own, bringing to mind neighbours Outkast and Goodie Mob. Some real head-bobbers to be found in tracks like "Southern Breaded" and "Like We Do," as well as remix potential that is downright mouthwatering. 8/10 (Scott C)
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The tide of R&B artists borrowing heavily from pop and folk influences continues to turn with Ricky Jones. Decidedly upbeat, cleverly crafted and convincingly executed, Jones' love songs are neither boring nor clichéd. A mix of optimism and realism colour musical stories like "Love Finally Made It" and "Words." And he finds time to tackle broader issues on "It Don't Make No Sense." Seems this guy's head and heart are in the right place. 8/10 (Gerard Dee)