Rappers Rakaa (Iriscience) and Evidence and turntablist Babu promote positivity and endorse old-school production values. They rap about freedom of speech instead of big-bootied women on "Proper Propaganda," and employ the unruly but addictive Liks on "Heavy Rotation," instead of the platinum-clinching Timbaland. Even if Dilated Peoples proves less musically adventurous than Left Coast comrades like Jurassic 5 and Blackalicious, the trio's second album, Expansion Team, offers plenty to entice: raw, battle-ready flows, DJ Babu's steady rhythms, and a complete disregard for fashion. The back-to-basics formula is unlikely to make reigning heavyweights like Jay-Z sweat, but tracks such as "Trade Money" and "War" restore hip-hop's flagging integrity, while guest collaborators like DJ Premier and ?uestlove give the proceedings a distinct aid of honor. - Vibe Magazine (December, 2001). I think earlier parts of the review were a little shortsighted but well-intentioned... and I get it. Certainly Dilated Peoples have had an amazing career as a group and as solo artists, and I'd like to think they've since upgraded their "1982 Datsuns" - maybe opting for something other than Hummers though. Plus, "Worst Comes to Worst" was the clear winner from this project, even its simplicity. Alchemist's production and Babu's cuts are dope! Of course, R.I.P., Guru + all those we lost in the Towers, which were featured in the video and was recorded just days before 9/11. For more back story on that, click HERE and listen to Expansion Team below...
Below is a promo sticker & patch for the LP + the full Vibe review...
