Mike Ladd Nostalgialator

• Words: Daniel Siwek
• Label: Definitive Jux
• XLR8R Rating: 7/10

This Boston-bred, Parisian-based rapper has an intellectual streak that can only be matched by DJ Spooky, but his buckshot approach is more like Public Enemy–where scathing critiques take out all suckers and provide the proverbial time-check. While Nostalgialator made its European debut in 2004, its U.S. release proves it’s got staying power. “Trouble Shot” offers a hook that’s as catchy as Diddy’s “Bad Boy for Life,” but without succumbing to ego and narcissism. And “Housewife at Play” reveals that the MC can still have fun, rocking out like Hendrix and the Beasties.