It’s a common misconception that Hilltop Hoods were the first artists signed to Australian monolithic hip hop label Obese Records. In actual fact Reason was bestowed with this honour some 10 years ago and released the label’s first record in 1999 with Solid (OBR001). As his debut album’s catalogue number suggests, Reason is a veteran to Aussie hip-hop and still has something to show the young lads in this game. Showing no sign of slowing, Reason’s The Tides Are Turning is another showcase of his diversity and, in all honesty, who doesn’t love hearing the pioneers of this genre do what they do best?

The Tides Are Turning is a very self-aware album with production and appearances from many Obese heavyweights (pun) including Trials (Funkoars), Debris and Pressure (Hilltop Hoods), Daz (Downsyde) and big Pegz (head of Obese Records). The album is consistent in ideas and abilities and every track is a heartfelt and conscious testimony to how an original Australian MC views the ever-changing landscape of Aussie hip hop and the world surrounding him. Having witnessed the beginning of hip-hop down under, the birth of Obese Records and a daughter as well, Reason’s experience goes far beyond the lyrical styling of those who rock the mic these days.

Reason’s flow seems a little dated and simple by today’s standards but it’s proof of his experience and true to his old school underground roots. His charisma and lyricism is still on par with his early work and that of today’s MCs. Stand out jam is Cloud Surfing with Pressure from Hilltop Hoods. The production, courtesy of Ghost from Heads For Music in the UK, sets a mellow tone with rhymes about the globe trotting hip hop permits and Australia’s ties to its colonial motherland. Another smooth track is 24 to 1 featuring Level-Headed with its creative rhymes and word play.

On a whole the album is full of self-conscious rhymes and funky production with cuts and sampling from different DJ’s from the Obese faculty. Expect exactly what you would from this Aussie veteran, blue collared swagger, self-aware lyricism and a diverse array of beats to nod your head to. The Tides Are Turning is a landmark album for Reason and the Obese crew. It’s proof that the old school will always be a driving force in hip hop and none do it better than the originators of this game. Reason is an Australian hip hop icon and if you don’t know him by now, this is your chance to see the reason behind hip-hop down under.