These guys have a delicious 'gift'

Every time I listen to Blackalicious, one thing always catches my attention: the blazing speed at which Gift of Gab raps. There are a lot of performers out there who rap quickly, but Gift of Gab leaves them in the dust. He is like a hip-hop version of that guy who used to do Micro Machine commercials. Also, he doesn't seem to require oxygen like us mortal humans. That is the only way to explain his ability to rap for such long stretches without taking a breath; either that or between takes on The Craft he must have frequently collapsed in an asphyxiated heap. \nHowever, The Craft is more than just a vessel for exhibiting Gift of Gab's freakish sideshow ability to berate the listener with an endless string of fast paced rhymes. It's a fully fleshed-out album that is worth a listen for anyone with a predilection towards hip-hop.\nThis third full-length release from Blackalicious seems to be their attempt at appealing to a more mainstream audience. The Craft is by no means pandering to the pop culture, and I still wouldn't expect to see the rap duo plugging their new album on "Total Request Live" anytime soon, but the presence of songs like "Powers" and "Lotus Flowers" present a much more radio-friendly sound than previous efforts by the duo. In fact, I'm already anticipating their appearance on any number of independent radio stations around the country.\nWhile this album certainly comes out of the gate with a full head of steam -- getting your head nodding before your finger is even off the play button -- it loses momentum by the end. The final three songs on the album seem to be added just to bring The Craft up to length for a full length LP. One of these songs, "Ego Sonic War Drums," is almost unlistenable. And the final song, "The Craft," sounds like it should be the theme for a bad eighties action show. It's unfortunate, because up until that point the album is almost flawless.\nFans of Blackalicious will definitely want to pick this one up, but it's not as good as previous releases Nia and Blazing Arrow. This is not because The Craft isn't good; it's because those two albums set such a high standard for the group. It's not so much a step down for Blackalicious as a crouch down to tie their shoelaces. Whether or not that analogy makes sense, this is a good album, and judging it upon its own merits, it's certainly worth a chance. Plus, if you like it, it could become the first rap album in your collection without a parental advisory label on it.