The Last Stand

by Luke ForrestOne of the rising stars in West Coast's underground hip-hop scene in the late '90s, Planet Asia has proven talent as a lyricist. His signature aggressive flow and unique voice have been highlights of many compilations and posse jam cuts, but, like fellow Californians Ras Kass and Xzibit, he often seems to be better in a team than as a soloist. Following closely on the heels of the wonderful Cali Agents LP The Last Stand is a slight disappointment. Without a partner in rhyme, Planet Asia's songs are plagued by a lack of direction and mediocre choruses. Although "You Can't Miss" and "Holdin' the Crown" have solid beats (provided by Amp Live and 427, respectively) and rhymes, they lack the firepower of Asia's work with Rasco, Talib Kweli, and others. It's telling that the album's best two songs feature guests. Planet Asia and the appropriately named Punchline (part of the duo Punch & Words) trade verses with vigor to lay their claim as "Head Honchos" of rap's new generation, and the vastly underrated 427 and King Koncepts guest on "Takin' Ova." The remainder of The Last Stand is similar to Asia's self-titled solo debut EP -- quality listening, but unexceptional. What it reveals is an MC struggling to find his sound as a solo artist and fulfill his enormous potential.