They may not be the next “Tribe Called Quest” but they don’t have to be. It’s ok to be UNIQUE sometimes. And these cats certainly are. They blend more than just Jazz and Rap, although those are the main two styles. They get funky (“Cantaloop”), they get spiritual (“Tukka Yoot’s Riddim”), and there’s even a taste of reggae (“Eleven Long Years”). The real appeal of Us3 is not necessarily their rap skills. They’re certainly not bad, and can even shine in spots, but if we’re being honest with ourselves it’s not blowing the other Jazz Rap groups out of the water. No, the highlight is clearly the beats, which extensively sample Blue Note, which to those in the know should already be a sign this will be good. Most obviously on “Cantaloop” where they sample the Herbie Hancock classic “Cantaloupe Island”. But this entire album is practically a jazz nerd’s wet dream. If I had to connect the dots of this genre I’d say they’re most in line with Digable Planets, who are one of my favorites. Although I’d be remiss to say that Planets are twenty times more lyrically gifted. (Sorry Us3, you know it’s true too).