THA 4ORCE
Mind The Gap Anthems Version 2
[BBE Records]
Release Date:  February 25, 2008

Remember the DJ from Da Ali G Show?  Antics with Sacha Baron Cohen aside, Steve Ellington a.k.a. Tha 4orce is the real deal, boasting a remix and production resume that others would kill to have.  Working with everyone from LL Cool J and Oleta Adams to Busta Rhymes and Amy Winehouse, his latest album on BBE exposes his prowess as an MC and producer.   While Ellington's skills behind the boards are superior to his lyrical abilities, he still gets an honorable mention for effort.  His best moments are when he's in DJ mode, as featured on "The Musician."  Rap snippets are cut, scratched, and arranged to interact with the dazzling piano of Tim Baxter.  "Drums Vs. Drums" is even more impressive as Tha 4orce goes head to head with drummer Dom Bannister, matching breaks from the crates with a live session on the skins.  For verbal fury, check for guest appearances from Poynt Blak on "Magnificent" and Phoebe on "Stay Strong & Feel Me."  Ellington's production is six-figure income solid and will have you hunching your shoulders for days on end.  -JRS