DJ Spinna may not be a household name, but among his peers he is considered a heavyweight in the music industry. Spinna is one of those DJ/producers who can appreciate pretty much anything. With an eclectic ear and a soul with hip hop etched into it, Spinna has manufactured a solid cult following overseas. However, popularity in the States still seems to elude him. His latest effort, “Sonic Smash,” looks to broaden his stateside fan base, one listener at a time.

“Sonic Smash” features a mature base of beats for his various guests to rhyme over. Those familiar with Spinna will find familiar territory here. The production grooves at a simmering pace as showcased by songs such as “More” featuring Dynas.

For those who like their hip hop laced with tough-talk and gun references, please move on. “Sonic Smash” definitely won’t be your cup of tea. Rather than to employ a who’s who of hip-hop heavyweights, DJ Spinna opts for a mixed bag of artists that he enjoys and wants to present to the masses.  

The results are impressive for the most part. Relative unknown Senor Kaos burns a hole through the sonically charged “Call Me Senor” with impressive lyricism. While his performance may shock those who haven’t heard of him, Elzhi’s verbal dexterity on the amazing “Colors Pt 2” will absolutely floor you. Conceptually, this may be the brightest moment on the album, as Elzhi delivers a narrative filled with verbal drops of various colors. It has to be heard to be believed.

A few minor missteps aside, “Sonic Smash” is music for the grown-up hip-hop listener. Efforts like this remind you that there was a reason you loved hip hop in the first place.

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