Hi-Tek, the highly talented DJ of Reflection Eternal (with Talib Kweli) hasn’t had the solo career which his early work on the “Train Of Thought” project first promised. However, now with his sophomore release “Hi-Teknology 2” he has comprised some of the best MC’s from all corners of America to finally, hopefully, get his beats the recognition they deserve.

The first highlight is “Keep It Moving” with a reinvigorated Q-Tip and Kurupt. While Tip’s silky flow is back to it’s best, Kurupt doesn’t feels misplaced. However, between the Abstract’s verse and Hi-Tek’s colourful soundscape, this track deserves mention. “Can We Go Back” is the first run out for Talib, featuring a beautifully sung hook by Ayak. “Josephine” is worth mention for the appearance of Ghostface Killah and the great guitar chords, courtesy of the Willie Cottrell Band. “Where It Started At (NY)” featuring Raekwon, Papoose, Jadakiss, Kweli & Dion is one of the best “rep-NY” tracks of the year. This has got to get play on the streets of New York in these coming weeks and months. “So Tired” featuring Bun B & Devin the Dude adds some much appreciated Texan flavor to the album. Finally “Music For Life” serves as a follow up to The Roots’ “Can’t Stop This”. Over a beautiful flute driven beat Nas, Common and Busta Rhymes drop gems in dedication to J Dilla (RIP) with Marsha of Floetry providing the hook. This track is beautiful.

Hi-Tek may of just done it this time. The production stays strong throughout and this album serves as reminiscent, New York hip-hop at it’s finest. There are missed shots, however, some of the featured artists didn’t belong on this album and due to the amount of artists featured on the album, the album loses focus. However, it’s definitely good, polished and memorable. Come October 17^th get to the record store and pick up a copy, there are tracks on this album which will keep it in rotation for weeks and perhaps months.

Overall : 4.5 Out Of 6 Shots