Spit

Mix tape DJs rely upon their connections and contacts among MCs and DJs, and Stretch Armstrong is flush with both of these. Even though Spit isn't a proper mix tape and is more of a label compilation for Spit Inc., Armstrong comes through with a solid list of exclusive contributions. The MC contingent is strong: Royce da 5'9", Pretty Ugly, and the real king of New York, 50 Cent (forget the Jay-Z/Nas melodrama, 50 stole the crown before they even started kicking up dust), all deliver. And while the A-Team isn't in the same tongue-twisting league, they breath some new life into Mister Cee's ubiquitous "Where Brooklyn At?" chant. And with Rush, Clark Kent, and Mobb Deep's Havoc helming some of the production, the beats are good, too. But as well-rounded a collection as it is, it still feels like everyone here is holding back. Which doesn't detract from Spit as a compilation, but does not bode well for Spit Inc. as a label.