MED – Classic (CD) (2011) (FLAC + 320 kbps)

Showing a bit of growth and a lot more understanding of the album format, M.E.D.’s sophomore release for the Stones Throw label is a serious step up for the rapper who’s always an asset on the mike, yet you’d be hard-pressed to find listeners who would declare him their favorite. Check the serviceable rhymes on “Int’l” and you’ll hear that the funky Georgia Anne Muldrow production is the real reason your head is bobbing, while the highlight title cut sounds like M.E.D. adjusting to a Talib Kweli cut, even if the mighty TK is only a guest. Still, M.E.D.’s the M.A.N. when it comes to covering Stones Throw-styled soul with rhymes that please both backpackers and street kids, and as the album goes from a set of tracks from well-revered producers — including the fine “War & Love” from the Alchemist — to a nine-track run of Madlib productions, it’s an interesting transition from mixtape style to the world of Madlib’s DJ-oriented, 12-volume series called Medicine Show. Add the Aloe Blacc feature “Where I’m From” and faithful fans of the neo-soul underground should consider this a necessary acquisition.

Tracklist:

01. Int’l
02. Where I’m From (feat. Aloe Blacc)
03. Too Late
04. War & Love (feat. Oh No)
05. Classic (feat. Talib Kweli )
06. Get That (feat. Pok)
07. JWF
08. Roll Out (feat. Planet Asia & Kurupt)
09. Blaxican
10. Outta Control (feat. Hodgy Beats)
11. Flying High
12. Medical Card
13. 1 Life 2 Live
14. Mystical Magic

Download:

FLAC – Wayshare

320 kbps – Wayshare