The LA Symphony crew is back, this time with a generous 22 track album chock full of rarities, demos, and unreleased tracks. Unleashed features new and old songs with emcees Pigeon John, Joey the Jerk, J Beits, Sharlok Poems, bTwice, Flynn Adam, CookBook, and UNO Mas. The talent of each emcee is obvious, and together they create some of the best hip hop around.

The album begins with "DL Drop," an in-your-face track introducing the crew. The rest of Unleashed is a good mix of party tracks and serious commentary, each with beats that compel listeners to bob their heads and bounce. Standout tracks include "Choc. City Drop," "Love for the Art," "Copywrite," and the classic, "Get Out the Van." However, each song is full of energy and passion.

Lyrically, LA Symphony covers a variety of topics ranging from being content with what one has on "C.Rap," having a good time on "Break it Down," and being passionate about God on "Passionate." LA Symphony is upfront about their faith, and many of their rhymes reflect their love for Christ. Never cheesy and always infectious, LA Symphony is an underrated group of emcees making excellent hip hop. Long time fans will want to add Unleashed to their collection, and those unfamiliar with LA Symphony will find Unleashed to be a good introduction to the crew. This is the type of music that begs to be cranked up in the car with the windows rolled down.

- Review date: 8/30/07, written by Laura Nunnery