Crack Belt Theatre

While he's been putting out music since the late '90s, (check out his self-titled 1998 EP), Fresno native Planet Asia has had a wandering career path, doing his thing in the underground, as a solo artist, and in the groups Cali Agents and Skhool Yard, almost tasting mainstream success during his brief tenure at Interscope, and catching a GRAMMY® nomination for his work with Mystic. His sixth solo album (not counting mixtapes), Crack Belt Music is some of his best material we've heard for years, showcasing his always impressive lyrical versatility but also shying away from flagrant crossover attempts. Backed by some great production, light on the keys and heavy on the loops, and unencumbered by guest appearances, he uses it as a platform to really let loose on the mic. From the drug game treachery of "Be Careful" to the autobiographical "Inspiration," Asia sounds better than he has in awhile. The Royal Flush remake "Gold Chain Medallions," and vintage-minded burners "Mixtape Madness" and "Black Frost (Retro Mackin)" are also outstanding.