The Roots - Game Theory

For this post, I chose the CD Game Theory, by The Roots. The Roots, in my opinion, are one of the best Hip-Hop groups around. Solely because, they don't rely on a lot of computer-generated beats, because they have the help of an actual drummer (?uestlove) to play their beats for them. For every head-nodding beat (and ?uestlove brings plenty of 'em), Game Theory has a head-turning treat, from the "om" chant intro on the gospel-style "Baby" to the melancholy Radiohead sample of "Atonement." While the straight-ahead, singsong "Don't Feel Right" is underwhelming, bigger hooks come courtesy of "Long Time." A piece of Prince-ly cyberfunk with a gorgeous string arrangement by Philadelphia soul vet Larry Gold, the song celebrates growing up in Philly, with guest MC Peedi Peedi bringing some welcome humor: "It started in the bathroom taking a dump/Listening to Ultramagnetic Ego Trippin'." The album closer, "Can't Stop," is a fizzy eight-minute tribute to departed producer J Dilla, memorialized here as the "Muhammad Ali of beats."

1. Dilltastic Vol Won(derful)
2. False Media
3. Game Theory
4. Don't Feel Right
5. In The Music
6. Take It There
7. Baby
8. Here I Come
9. Long Time
10. Livin' In A New World
11. Clock With No Hands
12. Atonement
13. Can't Stop This

Game Theory