Although it wants to be referred to as nu-jazz, there is little reason for seeing this release as anything more than leftfield hip-hop. However, Modaji does employ a variety of kooky samples that boost what would otherwise be fairly bog standard alt-hop into something that is genuinely interesting. Grass is Greener does this most satisfyingly, with its smooth vocals and cymbal riff making it the best track alongside 3 Wheel Hooky, which features the Mos Def/Q Tip inspired MC stylings of Maspyke. Overall it's easy on the ears, but not exactly earth-shattering or boundary breaking, which one feels it might like to be, and anyone familiar with the likes of Talib Kweli will find little new to chew on here. [Paddy Loughman]
Released: Out now.