This is the best mixtape series you never heard of. See when a DJ really really has something going it takes a few mixtapes to gain that momentum, and then it reaches a point where the series is either going to the next level or it’s a wrap. To me All elements 7 was that defining mixtape for J-Ronin and from here on out this is one of those mixtape series you have to be checking for. Smif N Wesson is hosting volume 8 in the truest sense of the word, well J-Ronin has skills, and that alone makes for a great listen.

That "Success" blend with Royce, AZ and Sav Killz was the perfect way to set it off. Bar for bar Sav Killz did his thing along with those other MIC vets. "Who Shot Ya" is def an over used beat on some freestyle shit but Steele got to showcase the word play so it was all good. "Keep Coming" could be hit man, too bad radio doesn't support music like this. From the hook to the content, Shabaam Shadee, Torae and Supastition laid down some classic bars and metaphors. That Mista Fab freestyle is what mixtapes are all about; and he went straight off the dome with it for 3 minutes and change. The best track of the whole CD was "Stomp". Smif N Wessun, Joell Ortiz and Rock beat the shit outta this track. They all came with that high caliber flow. The true sleeper of the project is Killa Sha on "Grimey Way"; exactly what you would expect with a mixtape freestyle. J-Ronin stays with future stars on his mixtapes. Sha Stimuli stays sinister sharp on "Hit Em Up" and of course, it wouldn't be a proper mixtape without Termanology on it. "Young Stars" with Term and Trife is that shit that's moving more birds than cold weather. I see Jeru is still sharp with the lyrics on his freestyle. Gab Gotcha slides thru with some ratchet blowing music with his freestyle too.

Man...If you can't see J-Ronin separating himself from the pack you're blind. He's actually getting these "exclusive freestyles" that other DJs claim they have. It's all about building relationships and supporting these MCs..if you can do that the "real" ones will show you unconditional mixtape love (nh). If you think hip-hop fell off you've been above ground too long...come back down to earth, hear what's really good and cop a J-Ronin mixtape. (2/5/08)