Reviewed by Steve Hayes

On this, the latest album from the idiosyncratic maker of rhymes, the street poet creates a vibe that will appeal to fans of Manchild/Mars Ill among others. Fusing main musician Joel J Dahl, bass lines and some drums from Jerry Pentecost, Nerd presents music to accompany his mind-stretching narratives which go way beyond simple pre-programmed beats and electronic lead lines. "Watermelon Track" is a standout with Nerd speaking, singing and shouting about protecting your heart. Kick drums, electronic arpeggiations and acoustic guitar predominate in "Our Team Is Going To Win" as the poet speaks satirically and yet seriously about "winning" and the Christian life. "Stripes On My Shirt" has an "it's a hard knock life" type hook as more satire meets creative breaks. In "Big Beards" featuring Ceschi, there is an awesome and amusing look at Spoken Nerd and the impact of his facial hair while social commentary is found in tracks like "I've Got A Friend In Money" and the brilliantly eccentric and energetic electric guitar-driven "Politics And Religion". Another wildly inventive set from the Nashville wordsmith.

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