Derek Christoff (aka D-Sisive) & The Arkeologists

He's back! Less than a year after announcing an end to D-Sisive, Derek Christoff returns under his birth name with The D.Ark Tape. Reuniting with the Arkeologists (aka Norman Krates) for "The Reunion Tour," the two rediscovered the easy collaborative process they established on The B.O.O.K., D's 2008 critically acclaimed debut, which introduced his new emo rap style, one heavy with pop-culture references. Derek takes a good look at himself with "Old Me" and offers more intimate moments with his mother and father on "Get To Know Me." However, most of the songs on this ten-track album feature his battle rap-style, self-deprecating braggadocio and lyrics expressing his displeasure with his treatment by the industry in a fashion similar to "If…" Norman's beats are his usual combination of old school soul samples (especially sped-up vocal samples) and grimy drums. My favourites include the celebratory "The Reunion Tour," the humorous "Tito Jackson" and his dis to biters, "Copycat," but the whole album is dope and fave songs change frequently. While maybe not as significant as The B.O.O.K., The D.Ark Tape is just as good.