A Definitive Hip-Hop Release
withthebeatzwiththerhymez | 12/14/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'm amazed at the lack of reviews/attention this album has received on Amazon and abroad. For those that don't know, Quannum has been releasing classic hip-hop since the early 1990s (see Blackalicious, DJ Shadow, Solesides, and Latyrx). On Ambush, Lateef (of Latyrx) rattles off verses over epic soundscapes provided by Chief Xcel (of Blackalicious) that range in subject matter from politics ("If"), to women ("Don't Stop"), to straight up battle tracks ["Lester Hayes," "Best of Me (Bonus Beat)"] with a ferocity and hunger unseen in today's hip-hop genre. I recommend this release not only to hardcore hip-hop fans, but also to those who appreciate live instrumentation, as much of the album incoporates live guitars, flutes, cellos, keys and drums. A Must-Own."
These cats make it happen
D.U.I. - Donnie Understands Intelli | Dartmouth, Nova Scotia | 10/30/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I first heard Lateef in 1997 when my friend picked up the "new" Latyrx album. I was stunned by the calibur of the hip-hop on this album, and wanted to know more about it. I could not find any more copies of this album, because Solesides was shut down, and Quannum took over. I did my homework, and realized all of the talent in hip-hop today came from Quannum. So I now have every Quannum album today, and just picked up the Maroons. This is THE best album brought to us since Latyrx in my opinion.
Lateef is my idol when it comes to hip-hop and I feel that with the Chief, these guys make it happen. Now when is the new Latyrx album coming out.
Come on guys spoil us.
Ambush is a guaranteed classic 5/5 all the way."
Must Love Quannum
Open Mike | Montreal | 03/01/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Quannum, like Stones Throw, can't really go wrong. There is no doubt in my mind that this underground outfit is among the most consistent hip hop labels out there. This album, featuring Quannum main-stays Lateef and Chief Xcel, is gold. I'm not exactly sure when it dropped - I lost track of its release somewhere towards the end of last year and discovered it two weeks ago among forgotten Latyrx singles and frayed Nia albums. What a gem though. Nine (+ 1 bonus) tracks of no-nonsense straight-up underground west coast hip hop. Lateef spits fire, which isn't a surprise considering he studied under Gift of Gab, the greatest MC of all time. His raspy voice may take a little time to get used to, in fact he comes off sounding a little Slim Shady at times, but I can appreciate that. Imagine Eminem spitting over quality underground beats - don't think I didn't see you smile.
Chief is a great producer, no denying that. I wouldn't say it's his greatest work but even his sub-par production blows most other beatsmiths out the water. Tracks like "If" and "Lester Hayes" make you want to get up a shake you money maker, while tracks like "Beautiful You" make you want to bear his children he's so good.
Combine Lateef's witty rhymes and stellar flow, Chief's head-banging production and a guest spot courtesy of the Gift and you have an album worth copping to get you through the winter blues. 2005's been dry so far and it'll stay that way if you sleep on this. You know Blackalicious are going to push their dates back to 2009 and the last time I waited with baited breath for Common to drop a new album he came out with Electric Circus. Yeah."
Track Listings (9) - Disc #1