20/20 [Edited] by Dilated Peoples

Dilated Peoples: Rakaa, Evidence, Babu. Additional personnel: Talib Kweli, Capleton (rap vocals). Recording information: Soundproof East, Los Angeles, CA. Dilated Peoples are one of the most creative and compelling underground crews in West Coast hip-hop, consistently striking a balance between laid-back grooves and intelligent street-savvy rhymes. 20/20 offers more of the same, albeit in a loose and freewheeling format. The album plays with a variety of styles and beats (some of which are provided by Alchemist), giving Evidence and Rakaa a chance to freestyle rather than stick to a script, and letting DJ Babu cut up something fierce on the turntables. While it may lack the focus of some of DP's other outings, it is still a fine example of L.A.'s underground sound, and guest spots from Talib Kweli and dancehall star Capelton help sweeten the pot.