Tech N9ne

Vintage is not entirely the case on this compilation of early works and more recent endeavors from Kansas City rapper Tech N9ne. Tech's been down for a minute, trading verses with everyone from the mighty 2Pac to the real Slim Shady (although in a more casual sort of party that also included RZA, KRS-One, Xzibit and Kool G Rap on Sway & King Tech's "The Anthem"). But despite these Billboard-topping friends, Tech ain't there just yet. Cut's like "Monster" just aren't ready for prime-time while the captivating "S.H.E." is a near-psychopathic spoken word where Tech obsesses over a dancer, "I left my mic for you, my wife for you/I miss you so I'm sitting outside the club every night for you." And no, it doesn't have a happy ending. But this disc does; it's a happy find for longtime fans who would rather have vintage Tech than patiently wait for his next full-length full of hardcore sniping, ominous subjects and club bangers like "Victory" which, despite its earnest attempt at mainstream funk and Luda ready lines like "Cause your momma got a big old butt, and your sister got a big old butt/Since your momma and your sister got a big old butt they helped the niner bust a nut," can't avoid the melancholy horns and disquieting choruses. So Tech N9ne stays below the mainstream, but not below the radar. ~ Joshua Glazer, All Music Guide