There are remarkable tracks laced throughout this album, including one that finally proves Erykah Badu was born to be a back-up singer. Also, unlike some of their previous albums, ‘Things’ is perfectly balanced with an organic texture, sparse instrumentation and an absence of over-production. Still, as minimalist as the production can seem, the recording quality here doesn’t suffer in the areas many rap albums do. It’s sound is clear and mostly crisp. However, even though this record will not disappoint on a high-end system, the reason to buy it lies less in the sonics and more in the meaning and message The Roots convey. Groups such as The Roots, Goodie Mob, rappers such as Common (who appears on this album) are a few in a small, newer unit of rappers intent on returning rap to its essence while infusing it with a generous amount of substance. This is something that will get our recommendation every time.