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Artist: Rhymefest Album: Blue Collar by Justin Smith Che Smith, AKA Rhymefest, is a son of a veteran who grew up on the southside of Chicago where he first started writing ryhmes in middle school. As he grew older he held many different jobs, from a janitor to a flower delivery man, all the while perfecting his art as a rapper. Ryhmefest�s new album, �Blue Collar�, is a reflection of the struggle he came through to be where he is today; an underground Chicago legend and an up and coming national act. The running theme of the album (Blue Collar) seems to be a common man's theme; an inspirational story of rags to riches. The album is slightly refreshing for more than one reason. First, Rhymefest isnt a thug, and he doesnt claim to be. In a culture where it is fast becoming less about the music and more about the back story of being a gangstar, it's nice to hear somthing different. He has a concious feel to his lyrics but isn't afraid to talk about women and partying, which everyone can relate to. Second, the beats are extremly inventive and head-nod-able. The most inventive is his rendition of "Bullet", a Citizen Cope song. Many Hip-Hop artists wouldn't think to dip into that genre (alternitive political rock) and even less would come out with such a great result. The album is good but his flow is a little less than great, sounding like he needs to catch up to the beat all the time. Also, the tracks "Brand New" and "Fever" dont really flow with the poor man blues feel of the album. If nothing else, Rhymefest's first album will keep you listening for more.