Hi-Teknology
On his debut solo album,Hi-Teknology, Cincinnati producer Hi-Tek brings together some of hip-hop's most innovative lyricists to complete his multilayered musical collages. Hi-Tek made his name producing forBlack StarandReflection Eternal, creating impressive tracks that were always as complex as the rhymes thatMos DefandTalib Kwelirhymed over them. OnHi-Teknology, however, he's not limited to the range of just two MCs, and each track is fashioned to custom fit the artists featured. "The Sun God," featuringCommonand Vinia Mojica, is a musical composition that is nothing short of perfect. Common is at his poetic best, telling a moving story over Hi-Tek's soulful production, which blends unidentifiable sounds to create an atmosphere that has a mysterious story of its own. "Breakin' Bread" is an archetypal hip-hop track with a hazy flute sample that gives the song a jazzy feel. And the funky production on the risqué "L.T.A.H.," featuringSlum Village, will transport listeners to the '70s. WithHi-Teknology, Hi-Tek secures his place among the great producers by bringing serious musicianship to hip-hop production and creating a truly satisfying album.--Felicia A. Wilks