Directors of Photography

Fifteen-years ago, this crew held down the titular track for one of the most prolific compilations ever offered the hip-hop community: the legendary 'Soundbombing II'. That project is where I first heard of these left-coast cats, and I knew immediately what was up! The first two albums were purchased without hesitation; I would constantly search for their guest-spots and production contributions elsewhere, and would spread the word to know-not's. Their vision by '20/20' was not very clear though, as their consummate style seemed to be loosening up more than a bit. Most of the side-projects only reminded me of what those earlier works were like [salute to 'Cats & Dogs' and 'Crown of Thorns', respectively]; and certainly heads pined for a freshly inspired sound, as a team once more. Eight-years later, all those growing pains and birth pangs developed into this gem.What makes this album brilliant--and my pick for AOY-nomination--is the intricacy of detail and maintenance of overall focus; while not being a concept piece, it definitely holds an understated thematic/sonic scope (hence the title). Cohesion with substance and nuance are rare project finds for any genre of music, artist or group. There has to be an obsession for keeping "The Bigger Picture" in view amidst the setting of foundation pieces in the structure, as it were (pun intended, but doubly so given the fact that on the regular edition, the aforementioned track closes the work with the genuine feeling of an end-credits song). Although "Opinions May Vary" [most amazing track on the album], the clutching-classic area of this offering takes place between "Figure it Out" and "Reversal": here we have not only the midpoint--but the perfect time to throw in an opportunity for Babu to flex beastly style and skill on the 1's&2's; with "LYTFA" literally kicking off the second half [as your thoughts should have flown-the-coup by this time], and thus setting up Rak & Ev's solo minutes in genius fashion. Plus, the throwback section of sorts, with "Hallelujah" finalizing the bonus-track version--the whole crew is reminiscent of the damage done on the first album by having your "Eardrums Pop (RMX)" close things out. I would venture to say that this cut here is a pure monster, tied for my favorite track.Describing that is not nearly as pleasant as hearing it, having the aesthetics explain it themselves. It's simply a pattern that I noticed, and am highly doubtful of it being an accidental arrangement--order is just as important as selection. The Expansion Team also avoided [thankfully] the cardinal sin--given today's world of free music downloads--of making an overly lengthy hiatus-return project (today's ethic and etiquette, while through the previous decade exposed to technological influences that have resulted in ever-shortening attention spans, demands only an hour of time or less to show and prove). Additionally, if one counts the number of tracks, having more than twelve is usually a flirtation with boredom and fatal redundancy. There was a time when excess and slight bloating--speaking time-wise--had been acceptable or preferred ('Illadelph Halflife' and 'Moment of Truth' remain great examples of this). Largely, however, that level of patience and appreciation has fizzled out; quality now is undoubtedly dependent upon and determined by the maximal use of limited time-space, a more concentrated effort and potency.All of the boom-bap elements were present, the production had familiarity and innovation couched in both head-nodding and laidback approaches, each song had a necessary placement, the two interludes were neither filler nor distraction, guests did not crowd the party, the entire attempt was decidedly thoughtful and meaningful--everyone brought their A-game, from producer to deejay to emcee; this is matured underground hip-hop at its absolute best! I expected nothing other than a potential classic work here, and thus am not at all surprised to have heard just that; these three "Directors" have blessed the culture with a skip-proof play. Mind Dilated.

Great Album!!! Long time Dilated fan, this one is on another level. Bought collector copy which said "like new" it is in much better condition in my opinion. Not a scratch on the disc!! Plays over & over. All inserts were included as stated, which also is such a cool addition to the theme of the album. Very happy with both seller and product!

Classic effort right here. I love that Evidence, Rakaa, Babu, and their associates have fallen right back in to their rightful places. Phenomenal production, rhymes and cohesiveness make this a must have. Get the bonus track edition.

The cuts from Babu were definitely my favorite parts of the album. Real skill and musicianship is what's missing with all the latest stuff out there. That, and the Graff srops throughout the album were dope. Its nice to hear dilated keep all the elements relevant. I haven't skipped one track and says alot. Classic.

GREAT ALBUM!! no song on this album can be skipped, if you are a fan of Evidence this album is really worth the buy he kills every track, one of the best dilated albums to come out ever in my opinion these guys have not slowed down one bit, DILATED!

A bit more mellow than previous albums, but the lyric content is great.

Dilated coming back stronger then ever. This is on heavy rotation, and is quickly becoming my favorite release thus far. Support independent and "real" hip hop. Evidence, Rakka, and DJ Babu are at the top of their game and only seem to be getting better.

DILATED PEOPLES!!!!! GREATEST HIP HOP GROUP OF ALL TIME. This album is food for the soul. This is music for the intelligent urbanites longing for real Hip Hop and not that formulaicly processed crap played on the radio.

After an 8 year gap it is an album that could have easily fallen flat. Happy to say it certainly doesn't. Evidence and Rakaa flow in together as if no time has passed. Babu is on top form, especially on the ace "Figure It Out (Melvin's Theme)". Some of the tracks took a few listens to get used to but the album gets better with every listen. I've loved Evidence's solo albums since The last Dilated album and he is on top form again here. The production is good throughout, my personal favourite so far being "Show Me the Way". Highly recommend the album to any hip hop fans.

nice album considering what came before it. I really liked this, dilated back on form

Great album - amazing replay value, highly recommended.

Best "new" Hip hop album I've heard in ages.

Super