Evidence, The Layover
(Decon)

Dec 19, 2008 6:38 PM Max Herman (Writer)

MC/producer remains relaxed
Until L.A. trio Dilated Peoples decide to put together a new record, the group's star producer-on-the-mic Evidence is getting by just fine as a soloist. On The Layover, Ev follows up his acclaimed 2007 debut with an EP that solidifies his place as one of SoCal's most reliable yet laid-back hip-hop acts.

This mini album can be so relaxed, you can practically smell the chronic smoke coming through your speakers. Like his last LP, Evidence ably handles a bulk of the production here but also lets affiliates like Khrysis contribute to the smoked-out vibe. And it's Khrysis who sets the tone of the album with the trippy, off-tempo title track. While not quite as unique, "The Far Left," featuring The Alchemist and Fashawn, is a prime example of how Evidence strives by taking his time on the mic and beat tip. But amid the chill sonics, Mr. Slow Flow doesn't often sacrifice the thump factor, which is evident on "To Be Determined"—a track highlighted by epic synth lines and booming drums. One drawback to this EP is that some of the beats do sound too familiar to past Dilated work (for example, "Don't Hate"). Still, the overall cool-out consistency makes for a worthy listen. [3.5 out of 5 stars]

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