RZA

Digi Snacks' first single, "You Can't Stop Me Now," sums up the whole record. On the third installment of his "Bobby Digital" trilogy, RZA proves that he's unstoppable. Like his dark, superhero alter ego, Bobby, RZA's still a force to be reckoned with. He led the Wu-Tang Clan to the top, and as a composer, he's lent his strangely, orchestral aesthetic to films ranging from Kill Bill to Blade Trinity. However, Mr. Robert Diggs still shines behind the mic, and he's gotten even better with his latest offering.

Digi Snacks is the most cohesive Bobby Digital record, yet. This romp in Bobby D's dojo serves up enough philosophy, kung fu and space-funk beats to go around. The first single sees RZA trading off with Wu-Tang cohort Inspectah Deck over a smooth, smoky guitar lead. RZA's snaky rhymes fuse to even catchier beats on "Money Don't Own Me." "Drama" and "Creep" both take us back to the mean streets via those funk-infused rhythms and infectious hooks. The album's standout track, "Up Again," couples a circus-style beat with some straight-up spiritual ruminations about, you guessed it, never quitting. RZA may very well be rap's best motivational singer, intentionally or not. Nevertheless the sagely MC and producer is nothing short of inspiring here.

The album is one eerie transmission from RZA's psyche after another. However, all of his friends are welcome to join the musical freak show. George Clinton's got a killer cameo, and then there are appearances from RZA's Achozen cohort Shavo Odadjian (System of a Down) and John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers). Ultimately, if you're into intellectual and intriguing hip hop, these Snax should fill you up for awhile.

—Rick Florino
07.16.08