(Obese Records)

2004 has seen the release of many Australian hip hop releases yet Reason’s third full length release has to be one of the most anticipated of the year. An MC for over 15 years, a passionate teacher, the force behind Hitting Switches and an outspoken lyricist when it comes to politics and social issues, no one ever expected Reason to keep quiet yet this release seems much more relaxed, and more at ease than his previous works whilst still hitting the issues and being truly patriotic.

An all star line up of dj’s producers and mc’s is a testament to Reason’s success and support in the oz hip hop community. Pegz, Merma, Lazy Grey & Flak all join him on mic duties whilst cuts and scratches are handled by Debris, Brand, Vame, Selekt, Flagrant and the man Reason himself. Production has been handled by Debris, Simplex, Lazy Grey, Bass, Ciecmate & Newsense and is one of the album’s strongest merits, particularly on You Never Know, Fatter Too and Out on the Patio.

In terms of social issues he tends to concentrate on the political climate of Australia, notably indigenous affairs, Australia’s involvement in the Middle East & twin towers and the effects of the Bali Bombings. Most of these issues are addressing in the opening jingle Have You Ever where on a lighter tip he also drops rhymes about accents, obese and ozhiphop.com. Despite his focus on politics, not only through this song but subtly throughout the album we also see a passionate environmentalist in You Never Know.  Easily my favourite track, mainly because of the production as the lyrics can be a little too ‘Greenpeace’ at times yet nonetheless it’s refreshing to see a successful and respected mc using his time on the mic in a positive and not egotistical way.

Despite the inclusion of social issues the most predominant theme in this album is patriotism and all things Australian. True Aussie Icon has been remixed with a banging beat by Debris and an extra verse courtesy of Flak as has Reography with a typical Ciecmate beat to tell the story of his family and his hip hop history. Day in the Sun is typically Aussie, cricket, a few beers and a few mates as is Out on The Patio in which production is handled by Hospice Crew’s Newsense and also features Merma. Again a celebration of Australian culture, lifestyle and music with a funky little hook and some first class cuts. Good Sport displays Reason’s passion for sport from Rugby to Rules to Supercars, the beat courtesy of Bass is probably the highlight yet Reason’s ability to take a concept and lyricise it shines particularly in this track.

My favourite tracks tended to be the Remixes, particularly Reography and Simple Plan. In terms of the newer stuff You Never Know and Fatter Too took my fancy. One Step Ahead is admirably Australian whilst not in your face and surprisingly quite humble and non-egocentric. A reflection of the sunshine, beer and music that graces our nation whilst still having the ability to communicate on a social and political level without being offensive. More laid back than previous offerings with some killer beats and significant lyricism, not the average hip hop album yet definitely one for the collection.