Capitol 1212 - Sampler

You don't really hear an awful lot about Scottish hip-hop these days, but if the output from Capitol 1212, the production duo consisting of Edinburgh-based DJs Fly-T and Professa Fresh, is anything to go by, that should change. This mix, featuring tracks from their Raw and Disorder EP and their recently released 7" single, contains some expertly crafted songs. There's also a number of their remixes, and each is incredibly listenable, suitable for urban enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Flitting between fast-paced breakbreat tunes, slower, jazzier efforts and uplifting reggae numbers, this avoids seeming schizophrenic and has a clear identity. Characterised by steady beats, bassline backbones and neat rhymes, each song oozes style from its samples and instruments, whether it be carribean drums or bassy saxophone. The smattering of special guests, including Donald D, Profisee and Grandmaster Caz (a.k.a Casanova Fly, the lyricist behind Rapper's Delight), all weigh in with stellar performances. Every song, even the slightly cringe-worthy pseudo spoken-word number, deserves a listen. 'Mon the local hip-hop. [Michael Slevin]