CYNE - Evolution Fight

CYNE (Cultivating Your New Experience)
"Rousseau feat. Rico Suave" from Evolution Fight (2005, City Centre Offices)
"Moonlight" from Evolution Fight (2005, City Centre Offices)
"Running Water (Music Video)" from Evolution Fight (2005, City Centre Offices)

"Evolution Fight", CYNE's sophomore outing, is a versatile, multifaceted experience. In one respect, this album serves well as soothing, rhythmic backround music. This can be accredited to the soulful production of CYNE's pair of producers, Speck and Enoch. The beats are extremely lulling, almost hypnotic, with the aid of tranquil vocal samples and the occassional use of live instrumentation. Expect nothing overpowering here. Furthering the experience, Speck and Enoch make frequent use of brief instrumental interludes in between tracks. It's easy to zone out to this album. Overall you can expect a relaxing, forty-some-odd minute listen.

In another respect, if you make a concious decision to pay attention beyond the beats, you're met with insightful, intelligent lyricism. "Evolution Fight" is laced with vivid commentary on social woes, political angst and the hardships of black Americans from the group's two MC's, Akin and Cise Star. Both MC's have a non-abrasive delivery, which blends well with the production. While this is a plus, the smoothness of their delivery can at times detract from their message. If you make an effort to hear what they have to say, you'll be in for a surprise. Underneath the album's soothing rhythm lies a serious, at times dark view on many of life's struggles.

On first listen, the combination of serene, calming beats with flowing, non-abrasive lyricism may strike you as boring. Make an effort to let this album play through a few times, you'll be glad you did. This album really grows on you. After having this album in my rotation for several months, there's no doubt in my mind that "Evolution Fight" is one of the very best albums 2005 has to offer.

For more information on this Florida-based crew, visit their website at CYNE.net. "Evolution Fight" is in stores now.