Minstrel Show
If nothing else, North Carolina's Little Brother has gathered around it a very loyal fan base, one that sees the trio of Phonte, Big Pooh and produced 9th Wonder as the logical heirs of the Native Tongues Posse (De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, etc.) with their positive focus, jazzy, soulful sound and an anti-mainstream attitude. In that respect, the hype around them is reminiscent of what first greetedSlum Villagein the late '90s though they've been more consistent than their Detroit colleagues. Yet, however likable their last album,The Listeningand their latest are, the group are still an acquired flavor. To some, they turn out feel good, intelligent hip-hop for a more mature set. For others, they make throwback music that's pleasant enough but lacks punch otherwise. Phonte and Pooh sound solid throughout and 9th Wonder's much lauded production, while great in moments, can also drift into anemia too. An excess of skits is also a gamble with listener patience though the album's conceptual focus is a refreshing quality. For those who enjoyed Common'sBe, this is better realized but musically, lacks the same depth. --Oliver Wang