DJ-producer-MC Dynamax hails from the South Bronx and now, based in Paris, acts as a kind of European ambassador for Afrika Bambaataas Zulu Nation. This is his first album and rarely since the golden age of Public Enemy has there een such a direct political statement from the hiphop world. Mumia Abu-Jamal has been on death row for over 20 years – a classic setup which is causing escalating protest and outrage. Dynamax has written, produced and performed the music on an album which draws attention and offers support to Mumia with a string of names either joining in or simply phoning in messages. These include Chuck D, Dead Prez, Lords Of The Underground, Bambaataa, Guru and even legendary Panther girl Angela Davis. Its a brave, thought-provoking album which, apart from highlighting Mumias plight, also slams into America today. Its a bonus that Dynamaxs music is cool, atmospheric and, on tracks like Sky, whips up a Wu-style ambience. Stop The Death Penalty is urgent and wired like early Public Enemy while the lush and celebratory Get It Started takes a detour to pay that group verbal tribute. All the consciousness, invention and busting talent which made for great hiphop is here and marks the entry of a formidable talent.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Kris Needs