The Mighty Underdogs

Droppin’ Science Fiction

[4/5]

Three of the West Coast’s best indie-rap names come together on Droppin’ Science Fiction, the first disc by the Mighty Underdogs (aka Lateef The Truth Speaker, Blackalious’ Gift Of Gab and Headnodic). Putting together a supergroup can sometimes have sloppy results, but the trio have created with a record that successfully combines their talents into a full-on team effort. While Headnodic may be the least-known member of the group, he certainly stands out with an impressive array of beats that match perfectly with Gift and Lateef’s top-notch rhyme skills. On “UFC Remix” (which features killer cuts from DJ Shadow), the two spit fire over a beat that oozes with California funk. The trio wear their love for the West Coast on other tracks, too-“Want You Back” recalls the G-funk of DJ Quick. Though it doesn’t really need the help, the disc is aided by impressive guest spots from Mr. Lif, Jurassic 5’s Chali 2na and MF Doom (the latter steals the show on the twangy “Gun Fight”). The Mighty Underdogs are like the Westside Connection of the indie-rap world-maybe a little less threatening, but just as bangin’. (DEFINITIVE JUX)

ROCKS LIKE:

Mr. Lif’s Mo’ Mega

Jurassic 5’s Quality Control

DJ Quick’s Way 2 Fonky