Escape 2 Mars (Bonus Track Version)

iTunes Review

Best known as one-half of Bay Area super-lyricists Blackalicious, Gift of Gab is amongst the most complex, original, and easily recognizable MCs in hip-hop. Though his hyper-dense wordplay may be over the heads of many, he's developed a rabid fanbase around the world through consistent albums and steady touring. On his second solo release, he continues the intergalactic theme (his last joint was the excellent 4th Dimensional Rocketships Going Up), serving up 11 selections certain to satisfy underground aficionados. As usual, he plays with traditional song structure and varies his flow from track to track, meandering through the speakers and always keeping the listeners on their toes. Key joints include the kalimba-laced world music vibe of "El Gifto Magnifico," the Sin City anthem "In Las Vegas" with Joyo Velarde, the spacey elastic funk of "Richman, Poorman," and "Dreamin'" featuring Brother Ali and Del The Funky Homosapien.