Torae: Daily Conversation - @@@@ 1/4

Hip-Hop's golden age of the late '80's to mid 90's is often smiled upon and remembered as a time when New York had the dominant foothold and supreme cultural reign. While most of today's MCs (and fans) are complaining about the Southern takeover or (even worse) changing up to accomodate the radio's adaptation to the country's nether regions, a select few have taken it upon themselves to make a change and rep the east coast's essence. Coney Island's Torae saw his buzz go through the roof as he teamed up with Skyzoo for one of recent history's best 12 inches "Get It Done" b/w "Click" both produced by the ever so legendary DJ Premier. With the famished masses hoping for Tor to establish himself as a leader of today's new school, (no offense to Cut Monitor Milo, Charlie Brown or Dinco if they read this, but it's been a wrap for yall) his long awaited debut Daily Conversation has hit the streets for consumption.

Torae displays signs of being one of New York's next great MCs as he carries the complete package of flow, lyrics, confidence and topical material. The lead single "Callin My Name" is anthemic for all seriously aspiring MCs, detailing Tor's endless determination towards making himself known, while "Get It Goin" would fit perfectly if a whole genre arose from the Jay-Z coined term "black superhero music". One of his main strengths lies in versatility as he manages to sound at home on anything he's given to spit over, from Khrysis' homage to west coast bounce on "Somethin To See" to newcomer Eric G's channeling of M.O.P's energy on "Think About It" and "Switch" where he has fun flipping a variety of flows.

Overall, Torae is heavily gifted and making an indelible impression at a time when the east seemed headed down the path of obscurity. The only flaw to be found on the album is the overage of guest appearances, the majority of whom he outshines. Daily Conversation is a thorough introduction for Tor, with a return to great production accompanied by MCing that can lead to a restoration of prominence for the Rotten Apple.