Juice is loose

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WHAT should have been a mouthwatering prospect from Juice Aleem is sadly rather dry.
Jerusalaam Come, the anticipated first album from the UK rapper, should have been a showcase for a brilliant talent.
And in a way it is - with Aleem non-stop throughout with a flow that's half-Roots Manuva, half-Saul Williams, double speed.
When his deep dextrous wordplay is coupled with decent backing tracks, such as on Higher Higher or First Lesson, Aleem is up with the UK's best.
Sadly the sought-after MC is too often let down by staid, predictable backing beats and production which has left his obvious vocal talents buried.
That said, while this LP is unlikely to convert the masses, for hip hop heads there's plenty of reasons to turn on the Juice.