With their 3rd full-length Blackalicious have produced a record of suc hsonic depth and lrycial ambition that it can proudly stand alongside the world of Bay Area funk fathers Sly Stone and Shuggie Otis or hip hop classics like Outkast s AQUERMINI and the Roots THINGS FALL APART. But THE CRAFT isn t nostalgic for some golden era that never existed. Lyricist Gaby moves beyond the introspection ofearlier albums and musically Xcel accomplishes beats that touch on classic funk sidling cosily alongsiee the rochestra sweep of Stereolab. Features guest appearances by George clinton Floetry Lateef the Truth Speaker and Pigeon John.