Round 1 in this new Crosstalk-curated series of Baltimore Club Classics 12"s; we're told to expect as many as 10 more volumes in 2008, so keep those eyes peeled. What better way to set the series off than with six essential cuts from da Dukeyman himself?? The overwhelming office favorite thus far has been the "Hoody Hood Rat(1)" joint, tucked away on the B-side and sampling stand-up comedian Shawty (who you might remember from the "Never Scared" and "Get Low" videos). Of course you can never go wrong with Bmore MJ - cue the "Rock With You"-chopping "Dew Dew Rock(2)" - and the same goes for R.Kells, who gets remixed along with Jay-Z on "Fiesta(3)." Also features "The Show(4)" (Inspector Gadget!), "Git Da Hand Clap(5)" with Lil Mama, and "Roof About To Blow(6)." True classics right here, not some chit thrown together with Ableton ten minutes before a gig! If you spin club tracks, this is highly recommended, damn near essential.

reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red