Download: DJ Spinna - "Lyrics is Back" ft. Torae

Renowned super producer DJ Spinna is ready to wreck some eardrums with his latest release, Sonic Smash. After working with legends such as former Temptation Eddie Kendricks, famed jazz artist/vibraphonist Roy Ayers, and prolific Brazilian musician Sergio Mendes, Spinna gets back to his hip-hop roots.

Sonic Smash features a smorgasbord of talented emcees. Little Brother’s Phonte, Elzhi of Slum Village, Torae and others contribute verses. Although all of the tracks are remarkable, some standout more than others. Elzhi gets busy on “More Colors,” working in a clever American flag metaphor. South Florida rapper Dynas shows off his mic skills on the spacey “More.” If Aldous Huxley was into hip-hop, this would be Brave New World’s theme song.

The bulk of the artists on Sonic Smash are relatively unknown. Newbies (and label mates) Fresh Daily, P.Casso, and Homeboy Sandman hold their own on “Get on Down.” The thumping cymbals and horns push the verses along with the pomp of a polished marching band. Newcomer and Atlanta native Señor Kaos proves he has chops on “Call me Señor,” his lyrics floating effortlessly over Spinna’s jazzy piano key melody.

Sonic Smash’s 14 well-crafted tracks erase any doubts about DJ Spinna’s producing expertise. The album drops on July 21 on High Water Music.

Kimberly Turner is Oh Dang!'s resident music critic and pastry fiend. And No!, she's not fat.