You're actually just what Luscious Jackson fans like me should really dig.

Sorry, Northern State. Your white girl-rapping on Can I Keep This Pen? initially bugged the crap out of me. And that's not fair, because you're actually just what Luscious Jackson fans like me should really dig. That's who you reminded me of once I gave you a fair shake, and hey, what do you know. Adrock from Beastie Boys was one of your producers.

It all makes sense, and it makes me laugh. Which one of you wrote, "And if you got a sweat-suit and you're dripping with diamonds/ tell me are you a rapper or a mom from Long Island?" for "Mic Tester?" Even more inspired is "Cowboy Man," a slow-burning, melodically layered gem about George Bush. You should sing more, Sprout, Hesta Prynn and Spero. The tracks where you mix rap with singing are truly the best. I'm listening to "Better Already" for like the sixth time today. I can't wait to check out your first two CDs. A | Rebecca Reardon

RIYL: Luscious Jackson, Le Tigre, M.I.A.

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