Never Better

by P.O.S

Musically, I consider the period from the summer of 2008 to now as the 'Year of Doomtree', as I picked up and listened to a lot of product from this Minneapolis group, of which this album would have to be the highlight.

P.O.S is the first of the Doomtree crew to come to my attention, with his excellent "Audition" album of a few years ago, which this present album surpasses in every way.

First, "Never Better" is beautifully packaged. The cd is packed in a stiff plastic casing, which contains a number of acetate inserts, which can be rearranged to design a custom look. It's a cool idea.

The album itself perfectly blends Stef's punk and rap roots, as discussed in 'Out of Category'. It starts with 'Let it Rattle', where Stef asks "Who really listens?/ Precision with a verse draws a crowd/I draw a line between an easy melody/ and piece on mind," explaining the ethos at work throughout the album.

On 'Optimist' (with its fantastic plastic-cup beat) and 'Purexed', P.O.S eschews the typical boasting of rap and punk, and instead speaks honestly about struggle and growth. This album is both personal and accessible. Other favorite tracks include 'Savion Glover' and 'Been Afraid', which showcases Stef's considerable talents as a storyteller.

'Low Light Low Life' is the only track where other Doomtree members pick up the mic, and Stef is joined by Sims and Dessa (who murders the track). He provides many of his own beats, but is also joined by Lazerbeak, Paper Tiger and MK Larada. This album deserves to be recognized as a classic.