Pete Rock - Underground Classics

This collection of Pete Rock rarities and classics collects his work with lesser-known artists from the last ten years, on independent labels. It's a document of his underground success in the era of major-label, big-business hip-hop. Reggae-inflected crew INI, Boston's underground sensation Edo G, and the more gangster-oriented crew The UN all acquit themselves well. The inclusion of the classic instrumental Give It To Y'all (from before Pete Rock's 'Soul Survivor' album) is a bonus, as is Back on the Block, the track that reunited him with CL Smooth of 'Mecca & The Soul Brother' fame. A chilled, soulful vibe predominates - Pete Rock is a hip-hop purist, and as such his formula hasn't changed much since his debut in the late 80s on Marley Marl's 'In Control' radio show. Samples are dusty and worn, the scratches understated and funky, rhymes tending towards the slick rather than the harsh. A perfect example of why if it ain't broke, you shouldn't fix it. [Bram Gieben]