Mr. Lif – Emergency Rations

This album held some pretty bold social commentary upon its release, although some of its message isn't quite as culturally relevant in today's political landscape. Regardless, the tracks on this record are basically all great, even the ones that rant about George Bush and the state of the nation circa 2002. Music aside, the pressing is a little disappointing, which is sad because this is the only version of the album available on wax. And unfortunately, it's noticeable immediately with "s" sounds on the introductory track. Aside from sibilance on the album that is not present on the digital version, however, the rest of the pressing is well balanced and other highs don't struggle nearly as much. Mostly just the S's. If you can live with that, it's worth the price most sellers are asking for it.

Even though this album cover is simple and crude, it probably put Mr. Lif on the CIA's "we should probably keep tabs on this dude" list. Only Def Jux's 30th release, I was trying to figure out why I decided to keep this album out the donation pile, then I flipped the record to side B. Edan, DJ Fakts produce hot beats along with yet another El-P epic soundscape.