It’s hard to imagine how Atmosphere, after 11 years of tearing it up, can still put out an album as powerful as this. Their new one is more mature and still as raw as their other releases. Slug and Ant prove that they are not going to let up; they will continue to stretch the genre and make the most appealing and interesting hip-hop. How many hip-hop artists can rhyme over a flute? It sounds odd, but it works. One of the most appealing things are the lyrics. They feel so real and are so easy to identify with. With songs about hard work and little respect, they pay homage to the downtrodden and the invisible. This album is no downer though. It has tender moments as well. Of 15 tracks there is not one dud. One of the standout tracks is “You, “a fictional narrative of a fed up waitress who is grinding out a living and counting her days. “Guarantees” is a powerful track with simple guitars supplying the canvas for a propulsive rhyme. The lyrics are strong and committed to giving a voice to the struggles of the working class. They are poignant and selfless. The charisma of Slug can’t be ignored. He is a preacher standing on a pulpit of clarity. No bullshit and no pulled punches, he is vulnerable, strong and not afraid. That kind of honesty combined with some of their most compelling beats make this album a must have. This is not just for hip-hop fans, it's for music fans. You owe it to yourself to give this album a spin.

Rating: 4 of 5 stars.

For more info go to: www.rhymesayers.com/atmosphere