The most critically-acclaimed consistent group in this business of rap did it again last year with their ninth album. You thought that becoming a late night talk show band would cause them to lose their edge or focus? Never that. In fact it went the opposite way. Brought them closer together as an even more sonically strong music machine and who knew lead voice Black Thought could sing? He shines on the titilating title track and proves his pen is still sharp on the grown man rap, “Dear God 2.o”. Packed with the usual heaping of guest voices (the wonderful “Walk Alone” sets the tone), it’s the moments Mr. Trotter is centerstage on the mic that have always been my faves. Two songs with touches on John Legend on them (“The Fire” and “Doin It Again”) showcase Tariq at his best. And his crew is pretty good too. Still.