Music Review: @JamlaRecords – Jamla Is the Squad Compilation

Jamla is 9^th Wonder’s label. The biggest issue is that many keep thinking that 9^th is the work horse and not the label owner/mastermind. Yet, with the success of Rapsody at the helm, people are realizing his label has something to offer. With the addition of Add-2 to a roster that already contains The Soul Council, Act Proof, GQ, Heather Victoria, Big Remo, and Halo, it is prime time for people to recognize that this label is a serious movement. In short, Jamla is a squad.

Not only are they “a” squad, their album refers to them as “the” squad. Since Flipmode no longer exists (sorry, Busta), and their album title says the same thing, I would have to agree.

Throughout this wonderful piece of work, each emcee, guest emcee, and singer do what it takes to showcase WHY they deserve to either be on this label or a guest on the album. Being one of the compilation’s highlights, “No Competition” highlights why Talib Kweli, Elzhi, and Phonte are some of the best to ever do it. If it isn’t Rapsody giving a one verse soliloquy on “Betty Shabazz”, there is GQ wondering “where’s Rocky when Bullwinkle be bullshittin’” on “Rated Oakland”. Even Add-2 flexes plenty of muscle on “Iron Mic” and “Bomber & a Fly Chick”. Thus, there is nothing but notable moments on this album.

Yet, it is the production that truly shows that there is more to Jamla than 9^th Wonder. The soulful bounce provided for BJ the Chicago Kid and Add-2 only notes how the track for “15 Minutes of Fame” was crafted especially for them. Meanwhile, the sped up sample on TP’s “Not sure” accentuates his off and on flow. The bouncy, subtle Wu influences come through on the bouncy “Pretty Bird”. The Soul Council, with results notably profound, constructed instrumentals as diverse and intricate as the emcees.

If there was any doubt about Jamla being “the” squad, then this compilation erases that. All emcees (signed or guests) bring their “A” game to the table. The production does nothing but grasp the ear and never lets go. Many want to associate 9^th Wonder as the main thing happening at Jamla, which is understood. After listening to this compilation, however, we know that there may not be any “squad” greater than Jamla.