The more I critique albums—a revelation manifested before my eyes in the evolution of Asian-American musicians—we’ve moved beyond our strong Asian accents, beyond even our indigenous cultures.

In the beginning, our hardcore accent, the consanguineous thread that binds us, which other ethnic groups seems to recognize us for. We were considered at one point the F.O.B. (Fresh off the Boat), the acronym for taunting us, and even criticized by our own races seeing a surge of the new coming after us. With the vast nation cluttered with so many different ethnic groups we’ve slowly begun to melt into the pot of assimilating into one American culture, especially the hip-hop culture—this culture that seems to be the defiant, as well as rebellious one.

No longer carrying an Asiatic accent; no longer wanting to be recognized as an Asian rapper; but instead, just to see the conformity of being another person pursuing his life’s goal without races—judge me for what I can do, and not my almond eyes, nor for my yellow skin.

One true music artist that has integrated into this visualization is Smokes in his ingenuity in conveying his raw talents with lyrics, backdrop melodies, and creative remixes that can easily be deemed as club hits.

The Money Back Guarantee album is unbelievable, to say the least. Smokes gives us 14 originals with the collaboration with Core Dj Craig McNeal, a combination noteworthy of stellar success, and I praise for it was “ear candy.” They were quite an impressive duo, and that’s not to be exaggerated.

Catch the prelude, track 1: “Closer”, you’ll be coerced to listen on to the whole album. Some of my other favorites were “Hennessy”, “Imma G”, and “Never leave me alone.” Guys and gals you won’t be disappointed!

If you haven’t had a chance to catch a glimpse of this Wisconsinite in action, go check him out at www.myspace.com/vipsmokes.

Any question(s) or comment(s), please do not hesitate to catch me at Jerry@hmoodle.com thanks.