Insight: The Blast Radius

While he doesn't get the kind of attention of some of his local Boston peers, Insight has emerged as one of the most gifted MCs and producers in the country. This is his adventurous second effort and it's a savvy mix of melodic, jazzy musical tracks and fleet, clear-headed rhymes. Insight features a throwback flow that is crisp and rapid. Thankfully, this is a hate-free zone as Insight rails against negative stereotypes that predominate in rap and yearns for the days when MCs weren't obsessed with the idea that it don't mean a thing if it ain't got that bling. On the intense "Timeframe" he looks at where history and hip-hop collide, while on "Lots of Facts About Control" he surveys world issues with a detailed eye. Edan guests on the combustible "Unexplained Phenomenon" and his chemistry with Insight is undeniable. The most audacious track is "17 MCs" on which Insight filters his voice and splices his technique 17 different ways for a daring stunt that works. The production is intricately layered throughout but airy and expansive. This is a major work and one of the best records ever to rise out of the Boston hip-hop scene.